ELECTRICALDON: DISTRIBUTION BOARD

A distribution board (also known as panelboard, breaker panel, or electric panel) is a component of an electricity supply system that divides an electrical power feed into subsidiary circuits while providing a protective fuse or circuit breaker for each circuit in a common enclosure.

A distribution board is the main electrical supply system for any commercial or residential entity. The main cable comes into the distribution board and then via breakers get distributed in the secondary circuits such as lights and plugs. For optimal performance of every device, it is necessary to maintain a proper power distribution and is crucial for home and appliance safety. Distribution boards are duly fitted with BS bars, DIN rail, and neutral links.

Distribution boards are not just a mere enclosure but an overall system in itself having neutral links, earth leakage unit, and interconnecting wires for the sole purpose of proper electrical distribution in your house. The standard distribution these days are made in accordance not just with the technical requirements but also as per home décor so that it can blend easily. Majorly, a distribution board comes in two categories:

1. Single Door Distribution Board: For simplistic applications, a single door distribution board is used which is available in 4-way, 8-way, 16-way configurations.

2. Double Door Distribution Board: For more heavy-duty operations and an increased number of applications and connections, a double door distribution board is used. They are majorly used for commercial use.

Distribution boards that are available these days must acquire these three major traits :

Safety

One crucial part of every distribution board is the fuse. Fuse is an important component of a distribution board as it doesn’t allow overcurrent to pass through your circuitry. In the case of overcurrent, the fuse automatically shuts down the major supply preventing your appliances and any sort of electrical danger at your home or at your office.

1. The unoccupied opening/s of distribution boards must be covered with a blanking plate.

2. A distribution board must not be installed anywhere where there is a frequent tendency of getting in contact with water.

3. Distribution boards should not be installed anywhere around a fixed cooking appliance.

4. Distribution boards must be protected from corrosion.

5. A distribution board, when installed, should be in accordance with the environment in which it operates.

6. It is advisable not to install a distribution board 2200mm above the floor.

7. The distribution board should be installed only by an expert professional.

8. The wires in the distribution board must not hang outside the board.

9. Distribution boards, you’re using must be according to your need and must not exceed the number of connections over the limited configuration of the board.

10. There should be a safety sign near a distribution board if possible.

In terms of safety, a distribution board is the prime source of power supply at your home and should be switched off immediately in terms of electric fluctuations or any other electrical hazard. They must be regularly inspected by electrical experts to ensure hassle-free power supply and safety.