1. Main lug panel boards are compact and efficient for small residential or commercial applications, providing a reliable electrical distribution solution.
2. Circuit breaker panel boards offer enhanced safety and protection for larger buildings and properties, with individual breakers for each circuit to prevent overload or short circuits.
An electrical panel board is an essential component of any electrical system, as it serves as the main distribution point for electricity in a building. Panel boards are responsible for safely distributing power to various circuits within a building, ensuring that electrical devices and appliances receive the necessary electricity to function properly. There are several different types of electrical panel boards available, each designed for specific applications and needs.
1. Main Breaker Panel Board
The main breaker panel board is the most common type of electrical panel board found in residential and commercial buildings. This panel board features a main circuit breaker that controls the flow of electricity from the utility company to the building's main electrical system. The main breaker panel board also contains multiple circuit breakers that control the distribution of power to individual circuits within the building.
Main breaker panel boards are typically located near the utility meter and serve as the central distribution point for electricity in a building. These panel boards are designed to safely distribute power and protect against electrical overloads, making them essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of a building's electrical system.
2. Main Lug Panel Board
Main lug panel boards are similar to main breaker panel boards, but they do not feature a main circuit breaker. Instead, main lug panel boards have a set of lugs that connect to the building's main electrical system, allowing electricity to be distributed to individual circuits using separate disconnects or breakers.
Main lug panel boards are often used in larger buildings or industrial applications where a main circuit breaker is not necessary. These panel boards provide a convenient and cost-effective way to distribute power to multiple circuits, making them a popular choice for a variety of applications.
3. Subpanel
A subpanel is a smaller electrical panel board that is connected to a main panel board in a building. Subpanels are used to expand the number of circuits available in a building, allowing for additional electrical devices and appliances to be powered.
Subpanels are often installed in areas of a building that require more power, such as kitchens, workshops, or outbuildings. By connecting a subpanel to the main panel board, electrical contractors can easily add circuits without overloading the main electrical system.
4. Transfer Switch Panel Board
Transfer switch panel boards are used in buildings with backup power sources, such as generators or battery systems. These panel boards are designed to automatically switch between the utility power and the backup power source in the event of a power outage or other electrical issue.
Transfer switch panel boards are essential for ensuring uninterrupted power supply to critical systems, such as security systems, medical equipment, or computer servers. By seamlessly transferring power between sources, transfer switch panel boards help maintain the functionality and safety of a building's electrical system.
5. Distribution Panel Board
Distribution panel boards are used in larger buildings or industrial applications to distribute power to multiple circuits or areas of a building. These panel boards feature a larger number of circuit breakers or disconnects, allowing for precise control over the distribution of power within a building.
Distribution panel boards are typically located in central locations within a building, such as electrical rooms or utility closets. These panel boards are essential for efficiently distributing power to various areas of a building, ensuring that electrical devices and appliances receive the necessary electricity to function properly.
In conclusion, electrical panel boards play a crucial role in the safe and efficient distribution of power in buildings. By understanding the different types of panel boards available, electrical contractors can select the best option for their specific application and ensure the reliability and functionality of a building's electrical system. Whether installing a main breaker panel board in a residential home or a distribution panel board in an industrial facility, choosing the right electrical panel board is essential for maximizing the safety and efficiency of a building's electrical system.