Electric panels, also known as breaker panels, are crucial components of residential and commercial buildings as they provide protection against electrical hazards such as electric shock, fires, and arcing. But have you ever wondered how these units actually work? In this article, we will demystify electrical panels and give you a comprehensive understanding of their functioning.

The Brain of Your Electrical System

Considered the brain of your electrical wiring system, an electrical panel acts as a service box that connects the main power line and is responsible for distributing power throughout the entire building via circuit branch units. These panels consist of switchgear, circuit breakers, and control gear assemblies grouped into one or more enclosures. Each individual circuit breaker routes electricity to a specific part of your home or building and may be labeled to identify the corresponding area.

Understanding the Functioning of Electric Panels

When power from the utility grid reaches the building's electric meter, it is routed through the electrical panel to supply electricity to all areas and rooms. The panel contains single pole circuit breakers and double pole breakers, which are essential for ensuring the safety of your facilities. Single pole breakers can handle 15-20 amps, while double pole breakers can regulate up to 200 amps and are used in conjunction with larger devices.

The breaker switches connected to circuits automatically trip and cut off electricity whenever there is a short circuit in any of the appliances, caused by excessive power surges or faulty components. When this happens, the breaker turns to the "off" position and needs to be manually reset. To minimize interference, electrical panels are often installed in secluded areas in residences, usually behind doors embedded in a wall. In commercial spaces, you can commonly find these grey boxes in basements, garages, storage rooms, or utility rooms.

Different Types of Electrical Panels

Based on their applications, there are several types of electrical panels with distinct characteristics used in the industry. These panels are equipped with various components such as feeders, circuit breakers, bus bars (grounding, neutral, or hot), and transfer switches. Here are five types of panels to help you understand the functions of these smart devices:

Power Control Center (PCC) Panel: This main electrical panel controls all loads to machines, devices, and lights in your home or office. It features a two-pole circuit breaker that can shut off power in emergencies or during electrical works. The panel also houses ground and neutral bus bars, which act as safety features to prevent overheating caused by wiring issues or defective appliances.

Lighting Panel: As the name suggests, this panel is used to control all the lights in a building or company. It provides overcurrent protection and easily disconnects lights, appliances, and other minor load circuits.

Motor Control Center (MCC) Panel: This panel serves as a power feeder to all motors in a company. It includes circuit breakers, contactors, Variable Frequency Drives (VFD), motor starters, capacitor banks, and more.

Control Panel: This low-voltage panel contains electrical components used to control various mechanical functions, some of which operate with DC voltage. It offers centralized control and protection for equipment in industrial, commercial, and utility installations involving transformers, generators, and power feeder circuits. It comprises relays, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Normally Open (NO) and Normally Closed (NC) circuits, alarm circuits, buzzer circuits, and more.

PHE Panel: PHE panels, which stand for Plumbing, Heating, and Electrical, are low-capacity sub-panels that connect small water pumps, heaters, water filters, motors, and other electrical devices. Another type of sub-panel is the hydrant panel, which connects all fire hydrant devices, sprinkler pumps, and jockey pumps.

Upgrade Your Electrical System with Electric Way

Now that you have gained a basic understanding of the functioning of electrical panels and the purposes they serve, you may consider upgrading your electrical system for improved safety and functionality. At Electric Way, a top electrical supplier in Dubai, we offer a wide range of quality electrical products, including panel wiring, switches and sockets, and cable accessories. Our products are available in bulk at unbeatable prices, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment.

Ensure the safety and efficiency of your electrical system by choosing Electric Way for all your electrical upgrade needs. Contact us today to explore our extensive product range and experience top-notch service from a trusted electrical supplier in Dubai.