A distribution board is the heart of your electric system. It lets you distribute single incoming power from the mains supply into several smaller, protected circuits. Each circuit is usually fitted with protection devices such as fuses, circuit breakers, or Residual Current Devices (RCDs), which protect the entire system in case of faults, overloads, or short circuits.
There are lots of confusing terms with distribution boards, like consumer units, sub-distribution boards, and breaker panels. To a large extent, these refer to the same basic concept: a panel managing power distribution and providing circuit protection. In this article, we will talk about the 8 things you need to consider when buying a distribution board. The following are:
Where Will the Distribution Board be Installed?
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Environmental Conditions:
Will the distribution board be installed indoors or outdoors? Panels used outdoors should also be weather-resistant and may need to be designed for sufficient durability for moisture, dust, or extreme temperature resistance. Additionally, if it will be placed in a high humidity or corrosive environment, like a washdown area, it should be designed to be in such a place. -
Accessibility:
How easy will it be to maintain or repair? The board should be accessible to qualified persons but also comply with local regulations on location if there are any (for example, away from flammable material).
How Many Circuits Do You Need?
The number of circuits you plan to drive from your distribution board will decide how many ways the board should have. Every circuit needs a separate pole, and the number of poles needed depends upon whether single-phase or three-phase power is to be used:
- Single-phase circuits: Generally, 1 pole per circuit.
- Three-phase circuits: 3 poles per circuit.
You must also think about future extension. If you will have other circuits in the near future (like new equipment or systems), the distribution board you will choose must accommodate this expansion.
What is the Total Load and Current Requirement?
A correct distribution board needs the calculation of total load and the quantity of current each circuit will need to distribute. It is this which requires proper sizing of protection devices, MCBs or RCBOs.
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MCBs:
It protects against both overload and short circuit. -
RCBOs:
It offers both over-current as well as earth leakage protection. Hence, they are safer for sensitive areas.
Knowing the current requirements of each circuit will ensure you specify the right protection to avoid any risk of overheating or electric fires.
Do You Need a Main Switch?
Some systems may call for a main switch that can be used to isolate the whole distribution board. However, this may not always be possible, especially when the distribution board is already isolated by a main switch found elsewhere in the electrical system. This decision on whether to have a main switch or not will depend upon:
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Wiring regulations:
Local electrical codes or regulations may dictate if a main switch is needed. -
Practical Considerations:
If the distribution board is readily accessible from another panel that includes a main switch, it might not be necessary to have one directly on the distribution board.
Type of Protection Required
Different systems require different types of protection. Distribution boards can be equipped with various types of protective devices to prevent electrical hazards:
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Main Switch Consumer Units:
These units are the most protective of all, with all its circuits totally separated and individually protected by RCBOs. They are best suited for applications that demand strong protection. -
Dual RCD Consumer Units:
These boards feature two separate circuit banks, protected individually by two RCDs. Such boards provide good protection but are utilized mostly in less complex applications. -
High Integrity Units:
These units contain dual RCD protection in conjunction with additional RCBOs for use where there are multiple circuits throughout large buildings.
What Size Distribution Board Do You Need?
The size of the distribution board is related to the number of outgoing circuits (or ways) you require. Distribution boards are now available in several different sizes:
- 4-way & 8-way boards: Suitable for small, simple systems like residential buildings that do not contain many circuits.
- 12-way to 24-way boards: Ideal for larger systems like commercial buildings or facilities with multiple circuits.
- Larger industrial boards: Will have up to 72 ways or more which is for industrial applications that have complex power demands.
Ensure the board size will be fit into the available space with room for expansion.
Expansion Capabilities
Always plan ahead when choosing a distribution board. Electrical requirements change over time in so many ways: new appliances and machinery, changes in regulation, etc. A little bigger distribution board with some extra space for additional circuits can save you the future cost of upgrading it.
Stated Compliance with Standards and Regulations
Ensure the distribution board you use is approved by all local electrical standards and regulations. Normally, these govern the types of protection devices and methods of installation, as well as the safety considerations. You should ensure it’s up to code for safety reasons but also to be able to fulfill legal or insurance requirements.
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