Panelboard meaning

Panelboard definitions

A panelboard is an essential component of an electrical system that plays a crucial role in distributing power throughout a building. It is a vital piece of equipment that houses fuses or circuit breakers to control and protect electrical circuits.

Panelboards are commonly found in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, serving as a central point for electrical distribution. They are designed to organize and manage multiple branch circuits efficiently, ensuring a safe and reliable supply of electricity to various devices and equipment.

Types of Panelboards:

There are several types of panelboards available, including main breaker panels, main lug panels, subpanels, and distribution boards. Each type serves a specific purpose based on the electrical requirements of the building or facility.

Main Breaker Panels:

Main breaker panels have a built-in main circuit breaker that controls the flow of electricity from the main power source. This type of panelboard is commonly used as the primary distribution point in residential applications.

Main Lug Panels:

Main lug panels do not have a main circuit breaker and are used as a secondary distribution point in a larger electrical system. They are often installed in conjunction with main breaker panels to provide additional branch circuits.

Subpanels:

Subpanels are smaller panelboards that are connected to the main panelboard to expand the number of available circuits. They are commonly used in situations where additional circuits are needed in a specific area of a building.

Distribution Boards:

Distribution boards, also known as load centers, are panelboards that receive power from a main panelboard and distribute it to various branch circuits throughout a building. They play a crucial role in ensuring electricity is safely and efficiently distributed.

Overall, a panelboard is a critical component of any electrical system, providing the necessary control and protection for circuits that power lights, appliances, machinery, and other electrical devices. Proper installation, maintenance, and monitoring of panelboards are essential to ensure the safety and functionality of an electrical system.

Panelboard Examples

1. The electrician installed a new panelboard in the breaker box.
2. The panelboard displayed the current power usage of the building.
3. During the renovation, the old panelboard was replaced with a modern one.
4. The panelboard was found to be faulty and needed immediate replacement.
5. The control room technician monitored the panelboard for any voltage fluctuations.
6. A circuit breaker tripped, causing the lights to go out, traced back to the panelboard.
7. The panelboard in the manufacturing plant controlled the machinery's power supply.
8. An overload on the panelboard resulted in a temporary power outage in the building.
9. The safety inspector checked the panelboard for compliance with electrical codes.
10. A surge protector was added to the panelboard to prevent damage from power surges.

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