Every element in the vast network of the electrical grid is important for power to travel efficiently from supply to the consumption end. The electrical panel is one of the critical devices at the distribution end of electricity. Acting as the brain of the electrical network within a building, electrical panels perform various functions simultaneously. Distribution across the various circuits, controlling each circuit at the centralized point, and preventing overloads and short circuits are the key functions of electrical panels. Electrical panels manufacturers like Synergy Systems provide different types of these panels, as each panel serves a specific purpose to meet the demand of different voltage classes, infrastructures and applications. Let’s explore various types of electrical panels with their applications and benefits.
Types of Electrical Panels
Electrical panels are primarily of three categories- distribution panels, control panels and special panels. Some perform both the function of distribution and control, while some perform only one of these two functions. Here are the common types of electrical panels based on specific functions:
1. Power Control Central Panel(PCC)
Power Control Centre Panel is the central hub in a building that controls and distributes power from the main supply to the rest of the circuits in the building. Supplying power from the main supply to individual circuits is impractical, expensive and dangerous in medium to high voltage electrical networks. So, the PCC panel distributes power efficiently by monitoring and controlling the supply.
2. Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB) Panel
VCB panels interrupt the supply of electricity by creating a vacuum and are used typically in medium voltage applications, i.e, 11-33 kV. It is designed to handle overload and faults in the electrical circuit by creating a separation between the contacts, arc quenching and interrupting the current supply to the circuits.
3. Automatic Power Factor Control Panel (APFC)
Power factor is the ratio of active power to apparent power. Maintaining Power factor is essential as it ensures there is no unnecessary rise in electrical bills. These panels adjust the reactive power by switching the capacitors on and off.
4. Diesel Generator (DG) Synchronization Panel
Large infrastructure has multiple diesel generator sets. A DG synchronization panel makes sure these are in sync and operates in parallel for seamless flow of electricity through the grid. It prevents overloading in individual units and monitors the electrical parameters.
Bottom Line
All these electrical panels are used in industrial buildings, commercial complexes and manufacturing and processing plants. The key applications of these panels include power plants, data centres, hospitals, office complexes, hotels, resorts, etc. At Synergy Systems, we are the top electrical panels manufacturers. Many esteemed clients trust us for our robust electrical panels, which manage and protect their electrical grids.