Exploring the different types of electrical control panel
There are many different types of electrical control panel and, which type is adopted as part of your project depends on a multitude of factors such as industrial processes, project requirements and what, overall, requires management & control; a lighting system, for example, will require a different approach and panel type to an array of electric motors. So, to help you understand the difference, within this article we detail the most well-known types of electrical control panel.
Exploring the different types of electrical control panel
Motor control centre (MCC) panels: MCC panels are electrical switchboards that control and regulate the operation of electric motors in or from a centralised location. These types of panels tend to form a vital part of electrical power distribution systems, and are often used in industrial processes that require multiple motors for function purposes. Essentially MCC panels are used to control motors in electrical power industries, from generation to production.
Lighting control panels: lighting control panels are small electrical cabinets that manage and control lighting in public areas, streets, supermarkets, commercial buildings and residential buildings. These types of electrical control panels can perform a number of different functions, such as:
- Setting light programs
- Distributing power
- Communicating messages
PLC automation panels: PLC automation panels, also known as (AKA) programmable logic controller panels, are electrical control systems, or panels, that use industrial computers to monitor and control industrial equipment and processes, and are usually found inside factory control panels. Of note, PLCs are considered to be one of the most efficient types of control panels available.
Electrical distribution boards: electrical distribution boards, also known as panel boards or breaker panels, are an essential part of a building’s electrical system as they are responsible for distributing electricity from the main power supply to the various circuits and appliances that run throughout a building. Electrical distribution boards are considered to be safer than directly connecting devices to the main power source of a building due to the fact that they have one input and multiple outputs. What’s more, they also reduce the risk of short circuiting and ‘brownouts’ – a drop in the magnitude of voltage in an electrical power system.
