What is difference of switchgear , panelboard and switchboard ?
These terms are related but not interchangeable. Here’s a clear breakdown of the differences between switchgear, panelboard, and switchboard, based on their function, construction, and typical use:
🔌 1. Switchgear
Purpose: Controls, protects, and isolates electrical equipment — typically used for high voltage or critical systems.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Voltage Level | Low, Medium, or High Voltage (typically >1kV) |
| Function | Protection, isolation, fault interruption (with circuit breakers) |
| Components | Circuit breakers, fuses, relays, disconnect switches, current transformers |
| Interrupt Rating | Very high — designed to handle major faults |
| Application | Power plants, substations, large industrial systems |
| Arc Flash Protection | Often includes arc-resistant enclosures |
| Cost & Complexity | Highest among the three |
⚡ 2. Switchboard
Purpose: Distributes electrical power to branch circuits and controls large loads — common in commercial/industrial buildings.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Voltage Level | Low Voltage (typically < 600V) |
| Function | Power distribution, limited protection |
| Components | Circuit breakers, busbars, meters, main and feeder breakers |
| Interrupt Rating | Moderate (higher than panelboards, lower than switchgear) |
| Application | Commercial buildings, small industrial plants |
| Accessibility | Front or rear access (maintenance-friendly) |
| UL Standard | UL 891 (for low-voltage switchboards) |
💡 3. Panelboard
Purpose: Final point of power distribution to individual circuits — often found in offices, homes, and light commercial settings.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Voltage Level | Low Voltage (typically < 240V or 480V) |
| Function | Distributes power to branch circuits, basic protection |
| Components | Circuit breakers, busbars, neutral and ground bars |
| Interrupt Rating | Lower than switchboards and switchgear |
| Application | Homes, schools, small commercial buildings |
| Accessibility | Front access only |
| UL Standard | UL 67 (for panelboards) |
🧩 Summary Table
| Feature | Switchgear | Switchboard | Panelboard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | LV, MV, HV | LV | LV |
| Interrupt Rating | High | Medium | Low |
| Access | Front & Rear (often) | Front or Rear | Front only |
| Protection Level | Advanced | Moderate | Basic |
| Typical Use | Substations, power plants | Commercial/industrial | Homes, offices |
| Standard | IEC/ANSI/IEEE (varies) | UL 891 | UL 67 |
📌 In simple terms:
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Panelboard = Final distribution point (think: circuit breaker box in a home).
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Switchboard = Larger distribution system (feeds panelboards or large equipment).
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Switchgear = High-level protection and control for major electrical infrastructure.
Let me know your use case, and I can tell you which one is right for it!
