switchboards

**Switchboards** are core devices in the power distribution system, used for receiving, controlling, and distributing electrical energy, and are widely applied in residential, commercial, and industrial fields. The following is a detailed description of them:

# 1. Definition and Functions

- **Core Function**: Distribute the electrical energy from the main power source (such as a transformer or a generator) to multiple branch circuits, control the on-off of each circuit, and provide overload and short-circuit protection.

- **Structural Features**: Usually with a metal or non-metal casing, and equipped with circuit breakers, busbars, instruments, and terminal blocks inside. It supports manual or automatic control.

- **Application Scenarios**: Suitable for low-voltage (usually ≤ 1kV) power distribution systems, such as homes, office buildings, factories, hospitals, etc.

# 2. Main Types

# (1) Classification by Purpose

- **Lighting Switchboards**: Mainly supply power to lighting and small-power devices. They have a compact design and a relatively large number of branch circuits.

- **Power Switchboards**: Used for power loads such as motors and large-scale equipment, and support high current and frequent operation.

- **Smart Switchboards**: Integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) modules, supporting remote monitoring, energy consumption analysis, and fault warning.

# (2) Classification by Installation Method

- **Wall-mounted**: Small in size, suitable for places with limited space (such as residences and small shops).

- **Floor-standing**: Large in capacity and good in heat dissipation, commonly used in industrial plants or switchgear rooms.

- **Embedded**: Installed inside the wall, saving space, and commonly seen in commercial buildings.

# 3. Key Components

- **Main Circuit Breaker**: Controls the on-off of the main power supply and has overload and short-circuit protection.

- **Branch Circuit Breakers**: Provide independent protection for each branch circuit and can be equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI).

- **Busbars**: Conductive bars made of copper or aluminum, used for distributing electrical energy.

- **Instruments and Indicators**: Display parameters such as voltage, current, and power. Some models support digital display.

# 4. Considerations for Model Selection

- **Rated Current**: Select according to the total load capacity (such as 100A, 200A, etc.).

- **Voltage Level**: Match the system voltage (such as single-phase 120V/240V, three-phase 208V/480V).

- **Protection Level**: IP30 (indoor) or IP54 (outdoor), and it needs to be selected according to the environment.

- **Short-circuit Breaking Capacity**: Needs to meet the requirements of the maximum fault current of the system.

- **Expandability**: Reserve spare circuits for the convenience of future load increase.

# 5. Installation and Maintenance

- **Installation Requirements**: It needs to be operated by a professional electrician to ensure reliable grounding and compliance with local electrical codes (such as NEC, IEC).

- **Regular Maintenance**: Check whether the circuit breakers operate normally, clean the internal dust, and tighten the terminal blocks.

# 6. Differences from Metalclad Switchgear

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