Now that we have looked at the commonalities between the switchboard and the panelboard, We will look at their

sp... Page 1 of 3

Panelboards

Now that we have looked at the commonalities between the switchboard and the panelboard, We will look at their specific features
separately. Let’s begin with the panelboard.

Panelboard vs. Loadcenter

We looked at the Loadcenter in Module 10 of this series. The loadcenter and the panelboard perform similar functions. They
both serve to protect branch circuits from overloads and short circuits.

A panelboard is for use in commercial and industrial applications, while a loadcenter is primarily for use in residential
applications. This is because the bus bars in a loadcenter are typically rated at a maximum of 200 amps, while those of a
panelboard can accommodate up to 1200 amps. Along the same lines, a loadcenter can handle a maximum of 240 volts, but a
panelboard can handle up to 600 volts.

Components of a Panelboard

Now that you have a basic understanding of the functions a panelboard performs, let’s take some time to consider the panelboard’s
construction.

There are several components to a panelboard: a can, interior, circuit protection devices, label, dead front and trim, and filler plates.

Figure 8. Typical Panelboard Meeting NEC Definition

Can
The Can, also called the box, is the housing in which the other components reside. Typically, it is made of galvanized steel. The
design of the can provides protection for both personnel and the internal components. The can’s end panels are removable, allowing
the installer to locate and cut holes for conduit installation. Optionally, the end panels can be provided with stamped Knockouts.

Interior
Inside the can, you will find overcurrent protection devices, bus bars, insulated Neutral Bars, and other components, depending on
the application.

The centerpiece is the set of bus bars. A bus bar is a common conductor, used as a connection point for multiple circuits. Bus
bars are usually aluminum, but can also be copper. They provide a mechanical means of affixing branch circuit breakers. The bus
bars are mounted on the interior, which is mounted on studs in the box.

The neutral bar provides the termination point for the neutral wires from both the incoming service and the load circuits.
The neutral bar can be mounted on studs in the back of the box, or on the panelboard interior.

Figure 9. Bus Bars and Neutral Bar

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Circuit Protection Devices

The circuit protection devices are usually circuit breakers. They are mounted directly to the bus bars. We will talk more about
circuit breakers later.

Label
The panelboard label provides information regarding the unit’s voltage rating and ampacity.

Dead Front and Trim

These components cover the front surface of the panelboard. A hinged access door is provided as part of the trim. The dead front
provides access to the circuit breakers themselves, while preventing contact with interior components such as the bus bars and
internal wiring.

Figure 10. Components of a Panelboard

Filler Plates
Filler plates are used to cover any unused Pole spaces not used by a circuit breaker.

Circuit Identification

All circuits in the panelboard must be clearly identified with a number. This can be done in two different ways. The NEMA
(National Electrical Manufacturers Association) numbering scheme assigns odd numbers to the poles on the panelboard’s right
(your left), and even numbers to the poles on the panelboard’s left (your right). This is shown in Figure 11 on the left.

The other method simply used a vertical numbering sequence, shown on the right.

Figure 11. NEMA Numbering (on left) Vs. Vertical Numbering (on right)

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Attached to the inside of the door, you will find a label containing a circuit directory.

Enclosures

NEMA has established guidelines for electrical equipment enclosures. Most panelboards are supplied as standard in a NEMA Type
1 enclosure. Descriptions of the enclosure options are listed below.
NEMA Type 1 This enclosure type is for general purpose, indoor use. It is suitable for most applications where unusual
General Purpose service conditions do not exist. It provides protection from accidental contact with enclosed equipment
NEMA Type 3R This enclosure type is intended for outdoor use. It provides protection against falling rain and sleet, and
Raintight damage from external ice formation. It has a gasketed cover.
NEMA Type 4X This enclosure type is intended for indoor or outdoor use, where corrosion resistance is required. It is
Corrosion constructed of stainless steel, polymeric, or fiberglass. It also provides protection from splashing or hose-
Resistant directed water, wind-blown dust or rain, and damage from external ice formation.
NEMA Type 12 This enclosure type is for indoor use. It provides protection from dripping non-corrosive liquids, falling dirt,
Dusttight and dust.

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