papa smurf
Member
Is a MDB or a SDB considered a switchboard or a panelboard
is it a switchboard or a panelboard
- Thread starter papa smurf
- Start date
- Status
- Location
- Wisconsin
- Occupation
- PE (Retired) - Power Systems
The difference between panels and switchboards is in the construction not the application.
Typically panelboards are wall mounted and switchboards are floor mounted.
Panelboards are shipped as a trim, back box, and interior busbars while switchboards are shipped entirely assembled.
Typically panelboards come in sizes from 100-1200A (sometimes 1600A), switchboards usually begin at 1200A and go up to 5000A.
Typically panelboards are wall mounted and switchboards are floor mounted.
Panelboards are shipped as a trim, back box, and interior busbars while switchboards are shipped entirely assembled.
Typically panelboards come in sizes from 100-1200A (sometimes 1600A), switchboards usually begin at 1200A and go up to 5000A.
ptrip
Senior Member
Wonderful explanation here!
Now ... what's the difference between Switchboards and Switchgear?
I, unfortunately, have used the terms somewhat interchangeably ... but I'm sure there's something technically different between the two. :wink:
Thanks!
cycotcskir
Senior Member
I would draw the line between saying that Switchgear is a general term and Switchboard is more specific. Check out 490.30.
I would relate Switchboard being specific similar to someone referring to "One of those panels" meaning MDP, Em., RP, or LP's. You know that it's in a panel.
Switchgear could mean a wider range of equipment such as "switches, interrupting devices and their control, metering, protection and regulating equipment". Thus sayeth 490.30:smile:
I am not 100% convinced of my answer, but until someone offers me a better one, I'll stick with that one,
As far as most out in the field would use the terms... they are the same.
I would relate Switchboard being specific similar to someone referring to "One of those panels" meaning MDP, Em., RP, or LP's. You know that it's in a panel.
Switchgear could mean a wider range of equipment such as "switches, interrupting devices and their control, metering, protection and regulating equipment". Thus sayeth 490.30:smile:
I am not 100% convinced of my answer, but until someone offers me a better one, I'll stick with that one,
As far as most out in the field would use the terms... they are the same.
- Location
- Wisconsin
- Occupation
- PE (Retired) - Power Systems
Staying at <600V equipment.
Switchboards:
Interior of frame is 'open' (you can see all of the devices and bussing).
Most devices are similar to the ones used in panelboards.
Built and tested to UL89 standards.
Switchgear:
Inside of frame is compartmentalized and often barriered.
Protective devices are usually 'power circuit breaker' and drawout mounted.
Built to ANSI standards, although they may also have a UL label.
forman400b
Member
- Location
- Westchester County NY
- Occupation
- Master Electrician. NYC, Westchester, New Jersey
From NEC 100
Switchboard. A large single panel, frame, or assembly of panels on which are mounted on the face, back, or both, switches, overcurrent and other protective devices, buses, and usually instruments. Switchboards are generally accessible from the rear as well as from the front and are not intended to be installed in cabinets.
Panelboard. A single panel or group of panel units designed for assembly in the form of a single panel, including buses and automatic overcurrent devices, and equipped with or without switches for the control of light, heat, or power circuits; designed to be placed in a cabinet or cutout box placed in or against a wall, partition, or other support; and accessible only from the front.
Switchboard. A large single panel, frame, or assembly of panels on which are mounted on the face, back, or both, switches, overcurrent and other protective devices, buses, and usually instruments. Switchboards are generally accessible from the rear as well as from the front and are not intended to be installed in cabinets.
Panelboard. A single panel or group of panel units designed for assembly in the form of a single panel, including buses and automatic overcurrent devices, and equipped with or without switches for the control of light, heat, or power circuits; designed to be placed in a cabinet or cutout box placed in or against a wall, partition, or other support; and accessible only from the front.
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