A distribution board is a crucial part of an electricity distribution system. Also known as a panel board, electrical board, or DB board, the distribution board is a constituent of an electricity supply system that divides electrical power feed into subsidiary circuits while providing a circuit breaker or protective fuse for each circuit in the enclosure.
In simple terms, the distribution board is the main point for electricity supply; its job is to split electrical power feeds via breakers, circuits, or switchboards. This means it serves as the main electricity supply system for commercial and residential entities. In the United Kingdom, domestic distribution boards are known as consumer units.
Ryefield boards are an overall system with interconnecting wires, neutral links, and earth leakage units all connected for the proper electrical distribution of power. So, for optimal performance and safety of appliances, it is necessary to maintain adequate power distribution, which is why this writeup will address all that you need to know about electrical distribution boards.
Types Of Distribution Board
Previously, distribution boards were designed based on technical requirements; however, in this day and age, DB boards are designed based on home décor, location, and usage, among other factors. You might come across several types of distribution boards. However, they come in four major categories:
- Main Breaker Panel
This is used for either a residential or commercial unit. The main breaker panel is downstream of the supply as it contains the main circuit breaker that supplies or cuts off all supplies to the unit. They also protect the circuits from getting overheated.
- Main Lug Panel
This type of distribution board is essentially used when there is a main breaker panel upstream. The main lug panel is used as a sub-panel connected to a breaker while line wires run into these lugs from the main panel.
- Sub Panels
Like the main lug panels, sub-panels take the supply from the main breaker panel to smaller circuit sections of the house. This means these multi-dwelling electrical boards, like those from Sparks Direct, help distribute power to specific areas of the property by focusing on a satellite circuit breaker panel.
- Transfer Switches
These are frequently used in stormy regions where power cuts are frequent. The transfer switch is a variant of the sub-panel and shifts load between two electrical sources; it works best as a backup power generator. Through the breaker panel, transfer switches convert generator power to electrical power.
Components of Distribution Boards
The distribution board holds various electromechanical devices, among them:
The Main Circuit Breaker: This is the vital electromechanical device that can cut off power from the metre cable.
The Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCB): The miniature circuit breaker regulates the supply to the various small circuits on the main circuit. The MCB switches off if they notice an overcurrent (current that displaces the circuit’s current rating).
Residual Current Device (RCD): They are also called lifesavers and in 2008, the British Standard 7671 came into effect. This called for virtually all circuits in new or rewired homes to be protected by means of an RCD. They are very sensitive circuit breakers used with MCBs and can identify the most subtle imbalance between the phase conductors.
Moulded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): These devices function just like MCBs, except that they function with a much higher current rating. This means it is more versatile and can be used to hinder larger current ranges, allowing it to be used for both residential and industrial applications.
Isolators: are electromechanical devices that can be controlled manually and are used to isolate parts of the circuit for maintenance. They are frequently used with MCBs when an MCB fails. Electricians use this device to cut off the current in a circuit so that they can fix the circuit without getting shocked.
Busbars: These are conducting strips made of aluminium and copper that help carry a large amount of current from the incoming metre line to the several other circuit breakers in the distribution board.
Safety Tips When Using Distribution Boards
- The distribution board should remain covered unless it is put to use. The covering prevents corrosion in the wires and fixtures from dust and moisture.
- The distribution board must not be installed where there is a tendency for it to get in contact with water.
- A distribution board must never be installed 2200 mm above the floor.
- At all times, the ryefield distribution boards should only be installed by an electrical expert.
- Attach a safety sign near a distribution board when possible.
- When installed, wires from the distribution board must not hang outside the board.
- The connections attached to the distribution board must not exceed the capacity and configuration of the board.
- Do not install the distribution board anywhere near a fixed cooking appliance.
Final Thoughts
With its importance established, the distribution board is an essential component of every commercial or residential unit, as these entities cannot function without it. So, you should ensure that you have it regularly inspected by an electrical expert to enjoy a hassle-free power supply