Electrical systems appear complex, making it difficult to understand what the difference is between the switchboard and distribution board, and how each of these can assist you to distribute electrical current throughout a building or application. This article will explain what the differences are between the different types of switchboards that exist, according to the industry standards.

Switchboards are essential in all electrical systems and are connected to the main cables that deliver the electrical current from the transformer or generator into a facility. The electrical current that is fed into the main switchboard, will then be dispersed to the various branches of the electrical installation. Each branch feeds power to the downstream distribution boards, with the number of distribution layers depending on the size of your system, eventually delivering the required power to the loads

AS/NZS 3000:2018 clause 1.4.121. defines a switchboard as ‘An assembly of circuit protective devices, with or without switchgear, instruments or connecting devices, suitably arranged and mounted for distribution to, and protection of, one or more submains or final subcircuits, or a combination of both’.

When the main switchboard retrieves the electrical power from the power source, it has the capacity and ability to control the distribution of electrical current, as defined in AS/NZS 3000:2018 clause 1.4.122, which defines the main switchboard as ‘a switchboard from which the supply to the whole electrical installation can be controlled’.

The electrical current can then be pushed through from the main switchboard to distribute electrical current into the distribution boards. The definition of a distribution board as stated in AS/NZS 3000:2018 clause 1.4.46, is ‘a switchboard other than a main switchboard’.

Due to its position in the electrical system, a main switchboard will usually contain some key elements of that system; the Service Protection Device, supply authority CT chambers and metering, and the MEN link in TNC-S distribution systems. While all boards need to meet the AS/NZS 61439 standard for switchboard construction, main switchboards also have additional, stricter rules imposed by the service and installation rules of the various supply authorities.

Distribution boards are commonly installed when the electricity is required to be distributed into various areas of a building or an application, for example, a large commercial office building will have a distribution board installed on every floor, to assist in the distribution of electrical power throughout the level.

IPD offers solutions for distribution boards up to 400A. Our expert team is here to help you find the right solution for your requirements. Introducing the Evolution E43, E65 and E66 Standard Distribution Board, with or without power metering with various chassis combinations. These boards are built from high quality materials and provide great value, as they can be customized to suit various application requirements and environmental conditions.

The Evolution standard distribution boards are compliant with the AS/NZS 61439 standards and are compatible with the ABB System pro M S200 range protection devices. For more information on the Evolution distribution boards and to Experience Better, contact our team today on [email protected] or 1300 550 187