Basics of Switchboards (Siemens)

Basics of Switchboards
A quickSTEP Online Course
© Siemens industry, Inc. www.usa.siemens.com/step

Trademarks
Siemens is a trademark of Siemens AG. Product names mentioned may be trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.
National Electrical Code® and NEC® are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection
Association, Quincy, MA 02169.
NEMA® is a registered trademark and service mark of the National Electrical Manufacturer’s
Association, Rosslyn, VA 22209.
Underwriters Laboratories Inc.® and UL® are registered trademarks of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.,
Northbrook, IL 60062-2026.
Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-2

Course Topics
Welcome to Switchboards. This course covers

the following topics:
Chapter 1 - Introduction
• Overview
• Switchboard Terminology
• Switchboard Construction
Chapter 2 – Service Entrance Equipment
• Service Section
• Switchboard Grounding
• Disconnect Devices
Chapter 3 – Siemens Switchboards
• SB, RCS, and IPS Switchboards
• Other Siemens Switchboards
Final Exam
If you do not have an understanding of basic
electrical concepts, you should complete Basics
of Electricity before attempting this course.

Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course you will be able to…

• Explain the role of switchboards in an electrical distribution system
• Define a switchboard according to the National Electrical Code®
• Identify the main parts of a switchboard
• Identify various ways power can be brought into a switchboard service section
• Explain the difference between hot and cold sequence in relation to current
transformers
• Identify the types of main and distribution devices available for Siemens switchboards
• Identify the various models of Siemens switchboards

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Residential Power Distribution Systems
Power distribution systems are used in every residential,

commercial, and industrial building to safely control the
distribution of electrical power throughout the facility.
Most of us are familiar with the power found in the average

home. Power, purchased from a utility company, enters the
house through a metering device.
The power is then distributed by a load center to various

branch circuits for lighting, appliances, and electrical
outlets.

Commercial and Industrial Power Systems
Unlike single-family residential applications, which in most

cases use only single phase power, commercial and
industrial applications primarily use three-phase power.
Transformers used with three-phase power require three

interconnected coils in both the primary and the secondary.
These transformers can be connected in either a wye or a
delta configuration. The type of transformer and the voltage
depend on the requirements of the power company and the
needs of the customer.
The accompanying illustration shows the secondary

windings of a wye-connected transformer and the
secondary windings of a delta-connected transformer. For
simplicity, the primary windings are not shown. The majority
of applications are wye-connected, but delta-connected
commercial and industrial applications are also common.
These are only examples of possible distribution

configurations, the specific voltages and configurations vary
widely depending upon the application requirements.

Commercial and Industrial Power Distribution
Power distribution systems used in commercial and

industrial facilities are often complex, but, like a residential
load center, they are designed to distribute power to
devices and systems that perform useful functions.
The power provided to a commercial or industrial facility is

much greater than that provided to a home. This power
must be divided and safely distributed to various devices
and systems with specific current and voltage requirements.
Where large amounts of power are handled, switchgear
and/or switchboards are used. Where more moderate
amounts of power are distributed, panelboards are used.
Good distribution systems don’t just happen. Careful

engineering is required to ensure that the distribution
system safely and efficiently powers existing loads and has
expansion capacity for possible future loads.

Safe Distribution of Current
The primary role of a switchboard is to divide the incoming

main current into smaller currents and safely distribute them
as needed. To accomplish this, a switchboard incorporates
components that monitor the various currents and provide
circuit protection.
Because the voltages and currents vary with the

application, the size and current carrying capabilities of
switchboard components also vary. In general, the greater
the current that a component has to carry, the larger the
component.
Other factors that cause switchboard configurations to vary

include power company requirements, code requirements,
and application needs.

Small Office Building Example
A small office building, for example, might require 120 volts

for interior lighting and receptacles and 208 volts for
heating, air conditioning, and exterior lighting. In this
example, the utility company supplies a 208/120 volt, three-
phase, four-wire (wye-connected) service.
A switchboard divides the power into four feeders for

distribution throughout the building. The two outer feeders
supply power directly to the 208 volt heating and air
conditioning units.
The two inner feeders supply panelboards that divide the

feeders into branch circuits. One set of branch circuits
supplies power to exterior lighting (208 volts). The second
set of branch circuits supplies power to interior lighting and
receptacles (120 volts).

Medium Industrial Plant Example
This example depicts the distribution system for a medium-

sized industrial plant. The incoming power is provided by a
480/277 VAC, three-phase, four-wire (wye-connected)
system.
The power from the utility company is metered and enters

the plant through a distribution switchboard. The
switchboard incorporates a main circuit breaker and circuit
breakers for each of the three feeders.
The feeder on the left powers a distribution switchboard,

which, in turn, feeds a panelboard and a 480 volt, three-
phase motor.
The middle feeder powers another switchboard which

divides the power into three, three-phase, three-wire
circuits. Each circuit feeds a busway run to 480 volt motors.
The feeder on the right supplies 208/120 volt power to

panelboards connected to lighting and receptacles.

Chapter 1 – Introduction
This chapter covers the following

topics:
• Overview

Switchboard Definition
The National Electrical Code® (NEC®) defines a

switchboard as a large single panel, frame, or assembly of
panels on which are mounted, on the face, back, or both,
switches, overcurrent and other protection devices, buses,
and usually instruments.
While switchboards and power panelboards perform similar

functions, panelboards are accessible only form the front,
but some switchboards are accessible from both the front
and rear.
The accompanying illustration shows two switchboard

sections, an incoming or service section and a distribution
section that provides power to feeder and branch circuits.
Circuit breakers mounted in these sections provide
overcurrent protection. Some switchboards use fusible
switches instead of circuit breakers.

Busses
Switchboards include buses, which are metal bars mounted

inside the switchboard, to conduct power to various
devices. Bus bars in Siemens switchboards are available in
standard tin-plated aluminum or optional tin-plated or silver-
plated copper. The default plating for copper is silver.
Standard bus is sized on the basis of heat rise criteria,

in accordance with the UL 891 specification. Standard bus
bars are sized to limit heat rise to 65ºC above an ambient
temperature of 40ºC.
As an option, conductor material can be sized according to

the following density limits:
• Copper – 1000 amperes/sq. in.

• Aluminum – 750 amperes/sq. in.
• Aluminum – 700 amperes/sq.in. (Chicago market)
Tapered-capacity through-bus is standard in Siemens

switchboards in accordance with NEMA PB2 and UL891
standards. In compliance with these standards, at each
distribution section, the through bus capacity is reduced as
load is taken off. The through-bus is tapered to a minimum
of one-third of the ampacity of the incoming service mains.
Metering
Utility Metering
Requirements for power company metering and instrument
transformers vary with the utility. Typically, utility company
current transformers require a 30 inch high compartment.
Switchboard sections that contain utility metering must meet
the utility metering compartment specifications.
Customer Metering
A full complement of switchboard instruments with
appropriate current transformers, potential transformers, and
selector switches are available in all Siemens switchboards.
The meters and instrument switches are mounted on hinged
panels with potential transformers and fuses mounted on an
instrument pan located behind the door. Current transformers
are mounted on the main bus or at the load terminals of the
branch device and do not require additional unit space.
Power Meters
Siemens ACCESS metering solutions offer a complete
selection of components and software that can be applied in
switchboards. This includes PAC series and 9000 series
power meters.

Switchboard Standards and Ratings
Switchboards are built according to standards set by Underwriters

Laboratory (UL 891) and the National Electrical Manufacturers
Association (NEMA PB2). Basic requirements for switchboards are also
covered in the National Electrical Code®.
When selecting switchboards and overcurrent protection devices, it is

important to know the supply voltage, maximum continuous current, and
the available fault current.
The voltage rating of a switchboard must be at least equal to the system

voltage. The voltage rating can be higher than the system voltage, but
never lower.
The ampere rating is the current a switchboard or circuit protection device

can carry continuously without deterioration and without exceeding
temperature rise limits.
Switchboard bus structures and bracing are designed to withstand a

certain amount of overcurrent for a short time so that downstream
devices have time to clear the fault. The short circuit withstand rating is
the level of fault current a switchboard can withstand for a specified time
without sustaining damage.

Interrupting Ratings
When selecting switchboards and overcurrent protection devices, it is

essential to know the available fault current for an application and the
interrupting rating for the protective devices intended for use.
NEC® Article 110.9 requires circuit protection equipment to have an

interrupting rating sufficient for the available current. There are two ways
to achieve this requirement, the full rating method and the series rating
method. The accompanying graphic shows an example for each
method.
The full rating method requires all circuit protection devices to have an
interrupting rating equal to or greater than the available fault current.
The series rating method requires the main circuit protection device to
have an interrupting rating equal to or greater than the available fault
current, but downstream circuit protection devices connected in series
can be rated at lower values.
For the series rating method to be used, the selected series combination
of circuit protection devices must have been tested and certified by UL.
Each series combination of circuit protection devices has a series
connected short circuit rating. For additional information, refer to the
panelboards series connected short circuit ratings tables available
through the Siemens Industry, Inc. Power Distribution Download Center.
Chapter 1 – Introduction

topics:
• Overview

Switchboard Frame
The switchboard frame houses and supports the other

components. The standard Siemens switchboard frame is 90
inches high, 20 to 46 inches wide, and 20 to 58 inches deep.
Width options include 20, 25, 32, 38, and 46 inches. Some
Siemens switchboards are available with an optional height of
70 inches and optional depths of 28, 38, 48, and 58 inches.
The modular construction of all Siemens service and

distribution sections allows the switchboard to be designed
into the building.
Rigid, bolted frames can be shipped individually and moved

into the building in sections that are easy to maneuver without
special equipment, then quickly assembled in place with
minimal labor.

Bus Bar Phase Arrangements
A bus is a conductor or set of conductors that serves as a

common connection for two or more circuits. The NEC
requires bus bars to be located so they are free from physical
damage and held firmly in place.
NEC® Section 408.3 specifies A-B-C bus phasing from front

to back, top to bottom, and left to right (when viewed from the
front). There is no industry standard on the location of the
neutral.
On a 4-wire delta system, the B phase normally has the

higher voltage to ground; however, the C phase may have the
higher voltage to ground when metering equipment is present.
The bussing that has the higher voltage to ground is marked
with orange colored labels.

Bus Bars and Splice Plates
Vertical bus bars are used to distribute power via overcurrent

devices to the load devices. Standard bus bars are made of
tin-plated aluminum. Optionally, bus bars made from tin-
plated or silver-finished copper are available.
Bus bars may either be temperature rated or current density

rated. The current density rating specifies the maximum
current per square inch of a bus bar cross section.
The accompanying rear view photo of a switchboard

illustrates vertical and horizontal bus bar connections. The
vertical phase bus bars appear to be in reverse order
because they are viewed from the rear, but are in the proper
NEMA order as viewed from the front.
A bus connector makes a mechanical and electrical

connection between a vertical bus bar and its corresponding
horizontal bus bar.
Splice plates are used to join the horizontal bus bars of

adjoining switchboard sections. To make additional
distribution sections easier to install when they are needed,
the horizontal bus is extended and pre-drilled to accept splice
plates.
Accessible Devices
Components that must be easily accessible to maintenance

personnel are mounted on the front of the switchboard. This
includes meters and overcurrent protection devices, such as
circuit breakers and disconnect switches.

Assembled Switchboard Section
Cover panels are installed on the switchboard so that no live

parts are exposed. The front cover is referred to as the dead
front.
The panels are also used as trim to provide a finished look to

the switchboard. A product information label identifies the
switchboard type, catalog number, and voltage and current
ratings.

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topics:
• Service Section

Service Entrance Equipment
Switchboards are often used as service entrance

equipment through which power enters the building.
For example, the accompanying graphic shows a

switchboard service section connected to a utility power
source. This service section provides power to a
switchboard distribution section and, subsequently, to
downstream equipment.
Switchboards used as service entrance equipment must be

approved and labeled as such. Siemens switchboards are
factory labeled as suitable for use as service entrance
equipment (SUSE) when specified for service entrance
application.

Six Disconnect Rule
Service entrance conductors must have a readily

accessible means of being disconnected from the power
supply. The NEC® specifies that for each set of service
entrance conductors, no more than six switches or circuit
breakers shall be used to disconnect and isolate the service
from all other equipment.
In the top example, a single main circuit breaker can

disconnect power from all equipment being supplied by the
service. In this example, there can be as many feeder and
branch disconnect devices as needed.
In the bottom example, a service entrance switchboard

without a main disconnect may be equipped with up to six
circuit breakers or fusible switches to disconnect power
from all equipment supplied by the service.
It is important to note that the six disconnect rule refers to

the number of disconnects and not the number of poles. For
example. A three-pole circuit breaker or fusible switch
counts as one disconnect.

Service Section
Typical switchboards consist of a service section, also

referred to as the main section, and one or more distribution
sections.
The service section can be fed directly from the utility

transformer. In addition to the main disconnect, the service
section usually contains utility or customer metering
provisions.

Top-fed Service Sections
Power can be brought into the switchboard service section

from the top or the bottom.
The accompanying graph shows some of the options for a

top-fed service section.
Cable can be brought into the top of the switchboard

through conduit.
If the cable has a large diameter and more room is needed,

a pull box, available in 10” to 30” heights, can be added.
In addition, a bus duct entrance can be provided when a

busway connection is needed.

Bottom-fed Service Sections
The accompanying graphic shows some of the options for a

bottom-fed service section.
Cable may enter through a conduit to a disconnect that is

fed from the bottom.
If the disconnect is top-fed, a pull section can be added to

the side of the service section to pass cable to the top of
the switchboard.
Depending on the cable bending space, cable can be

connected directly to the lugs or to a cross bus. A cross bus
brings the bus connections to the pull section eliminating
the need to bend cables.

Hot and Cold Sequence Metering
Metering can either be hot sequence or cold sequence.

This refers to whether or not power is still applied to the
utility meter when the main disconnect is switched off.
With hot sequence metering, when the main disconnect is

open, power is removed from the load, but power is still
applied to the utility meter.
With cold sequence metering, when the main disconnect is

open, power is removed from the utility meter and the load.
The accompanying graphic shows hot and cold sequence

metering for top-fed and bottom-fed service sections.

Section Alignment
Some switchboards are rear aligned only. This means that

if the depth of the service section is greater than the depth
of the distribution sections, the service section extends
beyond the front of the distribution sections.
Some switchboards can be front and rear aligned. This

means that all sections have the same depth. This may
require the use of larger cabinets for the distribution
sections.

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topics:
• Service Section

Importance of Grounding
Grounding is an important aspect of any electrical system

and must be considered carefully. Any object that is
electrically connected to the earth is grounded, but not all
ground connections are intentional. A ground connection
can occur accidentally as a result of faulty equipment or
wiring. Proper intentional grounding, however, is essential
to the safe operation of electrical equipment.
There are two primary reasons for intentionally grounding

electrical equipment. First, grounding reduces the shock
hazard by minimizing the voltage differential between parts
of a system. Second, grounding provides a low impedance
path to ground for fault current. The lower the impedance,
the greater the current in the event of a fault. The greater
the current, the faster an overcurrent protection device
opens and removes power from the load.

Service Entrance Grounding
In the accompanying graphic, a switchboard is used as

service entrance equipment and is connected to a three-
phase, four-wire service. Note that the neutral is grounded
at the service entrance. This is accomplished by connecting
the neutral to a ground bus bar.
The ground bus bar is connected to the frame of the

switchboard and the frame is connected to ground. The
neutral disconnect link is left in place to supply a ground
connection to downstream loads.
In switchboard service sections to be used as service

equipment on 1-phase, 3- wire and 3-phase, 4-wire
systems, provisions must be included to isolate the neutral
bus from the grounded service neutral. This link can be
removed by a maintenance person when checking branch
neutral continuity on the load side of the main disconnect.

Downstream Equipment
The neutral is only connected to ground at the service

entrance. When downstream equipment is used, the neutral
is isolated in that equipment.
The accompanying graphic shows a service entrance

switchboard connected to a downstream section. The
neutral of the downstream section is connected to ground
through the ground bus bar of the service entrance
switchboard. The neutral is not connected to ground in the
downstream switchboard.
Notice also that the downstream switchboard does not have

a neutral disconnect link. Neutral disconnect links are not
needed in switchboards used as non-service entrance
equipment.

Ground Fault Protection
A ground fault is a condition in which current takes an

undesirable path to ground. The NEC® requires ground
fault protection for most service disconnects and feeder
disconnects rated 1000 amps or more on solidly grounded
wye systems of more than 150 volts to ground. Ground fault
protection may be required or desirable on other systems
as well.
Ground fault protection can be provided by a circuit breaker

with a ground fault protection feature. For example, the
accompanying graphic shows a Siemens WL circuit breaker
with a ground fault protection module.
Larger circuit breakers with ground fault protection typically

have variable settings for ground fault pick-up, the level of
ground fault current required to trip the breaker, and ground
fault time delay, the interval of time the breaker will remain
closed after a ground fault is sensed. These settings are
useful for coordinating protection throughout a facility.
When a fusible switch is used, ground fault protection is

provided by a ground fault relay like the one shown in the
lower left in the accompanying graphic. This relay also
provides ground fault pick-up and delay adjustments.
Ground Fault Sensing
Ground fault current can be sensed using any of the

following methods listed in the accompanying graphic.
Direct Method The direct method uses a current sensor around a ground
conductor. When a line-to-ground fault occurs, current flows
through the sensor and the protection equipment responds
accordingly.
The zero sequencing method uses a sensor installed

Zero Sequencing around all the circuit conductors, including the neutral on
four-wire systems. When there is no ground fault, the vector
Method sum of all the currents is zero. When a ground fault occurs,
the protection equipment calculates the level of fault current
and responds accordingly.
The residual method requires separate sensors to monitor

current each of the three phases (and the neutral on four-
Residual Method wire systems). When there is no ground fault, the vector
sum of the currents is zero. If a ground fault occurs, the
protection equipment calculates the level of fault current
and responds accordingly.

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topics:
• Service Section

Main Devices
Typical switchboards require one or more service main

disconnect devices. A main disconnect device is mounted into a
service section and feeds one or more distribution sections. In
some applications, the main device is located remote from the
distribution portion of the equipment. More often, however, the
service section is adjacent to one or more distribution sections.
The service section of Siemens switchboards can accommodate

a variety of main disconnect devices. Depending on the
switchboard model and customer requirements, the main
protective device may be any of the following device types:
Vacu-Break fusible switch, high contact pressure (HCP) fusible
switch, bolted pressure fusible switch (BPS), molded case circuit
breaker (MCCB), insulated case circuit breaker (ICCB), or low
voltage (LV) power circuit breaker.
All main disconnect devices, except Vacu-Break fusible switches,

can be equipped with ground fault protection capability to
comply with the NEC® Section 230.95 ground fault protection
requirements.

Branch Devices
Distribution sections of switchboards can accept any combination

of molded case circuit breakers and fusible switches.
The accompanying graphic includes two distribution sections,

one with molded case circuit breakers and the other with fusible
switches. However, as an option, if the system calls for a mixture
of these devices, they can be grouped in logical patterns within a
single section. This eliminates the need to have a separate
section for each type of device and can reduce the total number
of sections required.

Fusible Switches
Three types of fusible switches are available for Siemens

switchboards as main or branch devices.
Vacu-Break switches (VBS) and High Contact Pressure

(HCP) switches are available with continuous current
ratings from 400 to 1200 amperes.
Bolted pressure switches (BPS) with ratings from 800 to

6000 amps offer extremely high interrupting capacity in
conjunction with Class L fuses.

Molded Case Circuit Breakers
Molded case thermal-magnetic circuit breakers are

available with continuous current ratings from 15 to 2000
amps with interruption ratings up to 200,000 amp.
Interruption ratings are typically tested at 240V, 480V or
600V. These breakers are available with a variety of
accessories.
Solid state molded case circuit breakers are available in

frame sizes from 150 to 1600 amps. These breakers
feature solid-state circuitry which allows for the adjustment
circuit breaker trip characteristics and are available with
options for and ground fault protection, zone selective
interlocking, and communication.
Current limiting molded case circuit breakers with

continuous current ratings from 400 to 1600 amps with
thermal-magnetic protection provide coordinated protection
for circuits where extremely high fault currents are possible.
Solid state current limiting molded case breakers are also
available with continuous current ratings from 400 to 1200
amps.

WL Circuit Breakers
Siemens WL family of circuit breakers has been designed to address

the increasingly demanding requirements of today’s power distribution
systems and incorporates the following characteristics: high reliability,
compact size, ease of use, modularity of design, flexibility of system
communications, and safety-oriented features.
The molded case circuit breakers discussed earlier conform to the

UL 489 specification. This specification also covers a category of
molded case circuit breaker commonly referred to as an insulated
case circuit breaker (ICCB). ICCBs are generally used in switchboards
and may be fixed-mounted or drawout-mounted.
Another category of large circuit breaker is the low voltage (LV) power
circuit breaker. LV power circuit breakers are generally drawout-
mounted and may be used in switchboards or switchgear. LV power
circuit breakers intended for the U.S. market conform to American
National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards (C37.13, C37.16,
C37.17, and C37.50) and National Electrical Manufacturers
Association (NEMA) standard SG3. The corresponding UL
specification for LV power circuit breakers is UL 1066.
Siemens WL family of circuit breakers includes both ICCBs that

conform to the UL 489 specification and LV power circuit breakers that
conform to UL 1066 and corresponding ANSI and NEMA
© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 specifications.
Page 2-22
WL Circuit Breaker Frame Sizes
WL UL 489 circuit breakers have a rated maximum

operating voltage of 600 VAC and are available in three
frame sizes (1, 2, and 3) with frame ratings from 800 to
5000 amps. All three frame sizes have fixed-mounted and
drawout-mounted versions.
WL UL 1066 circuit breakers are generally used in

switchgear as drawout-mounted breakers, but may also be
used in switchboards. These breakers have a rated
maximum operating voltage of 635 VAC and are available
in two frame sizes 2 and 3) with frame ratings from 800 to
6000 amps. WL UL 1066 4-pole circuit breakers are also
available from 800 to 5000 amps in fixed and drawout-
mounted versions.

NEC® Section 240.87
New code requires any circuit breaker with a 1200A frame or higher to have
some level of arc flash energy reduction by reducing clearing time.
There are seven methods for reducing clearing time:

1) Zone Selective Interlocking
2) Differential relaying
3) Energy-reducing maintenance switch with local status indicator*
4) Energy-reducing active arc flash mitigation system
5) An instantaneous trip setting that is less than the available arcing current**
6) An instantaneous trip override that is less than the available arcing current**
7) An approved equivalent means
*Option 3 is one of the most common ways to meet this requirement.

** Options 5 and 6 were added in the 2017 code.

NEC® Section 240.87
A circuit breaker’s clearing time is the time it takes for a

circuit breaker to sense a fault, open its contacts, and
Zone Selective Interlocking (ZSI) extinguish the arc that occurs as the contacts open.
•A method which allows two or more circuit breakers to
communicate so that a short circuit or ground fault is Since the 2011 NEC®, Section 240.87 has required any
cleared by the breaker closest to the fault in the minimum
circuit breaker that can be set to a continuous current rating
time.
of 1200 amps or more to implement an approved means to
reduce the circuit breaker’s clearing time. This applies to
Dynamic Arc Sentry (DAS)
main, feeder, and branch circuit breakers and includes
•Available for WL circuit breakers with ETU776.
1200 amp frame circuit breakers that have been adjusted
•Allows the circuit breaker to switch parameters from a by a trip unit to a rating lower than 1200 amps. The intent of
normal operating mode to a maintenance mode when this requirement is to enhance safety by reducing the arc
personnel are near the equipment. energy associated with a fault.
•Maintenance mode parameters can be set to reduce fault
clearing time.
One of the approved methods for reducing fault clearing
Sm@rt DAS time is zone selective interlocking, which is available as an
option for Siemens molded case and WL circuit breakers.
•Available for VL circuit breakers with ETU586 and WL
circuit breakers with ETU776.
•Similar features as Dynamic Arc Sentry and can be used The Dynamic Arc Sentry option available for WL circuit
with WL and VL circuit breakers. breakers and Sm@rt DAS available for WL and VL circuit
breakers complies with another approved method which is
referred to as “energy reducing maintenance switching with
local status indicator.”

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topics:

SB1, SB2, and SB3 Switchboards
Siemens manufactures a variety of switchboards. The type

of switchboard that best fits an application is determined by
a variety of factors such as space, load, and environment.
In addition to meeting present loads, the switchboard
should be sized to accommodate potential future load
additions.
The devices and buses can be sized to meet anticipated

future load demand. Trip units or fuses of lower ratings can
be installed to meet present load demands and changed in
the future as load increases.
SB1, SB2, and SB3 switchboards are built to UL 891 and

NEMA PB-2 standards and provide the rugged construction
and service flexibility necessary in systems for industrial
plants, high-rise complexes, hospitals, and commercial
buildings.

SB1, SB2 & SB3 Switchboard Features and Ratings
Siemens SB1 switchboards have been

designed for the shortest lead times and
for applications where floor space is at a
premium. The rear of all sections align so
the switchboard can be installed against a
wall. SB1 switchboards contain front-
connected main protective devices and
through bus ratings up to 2000 amps and
600 VAC.
SB2 switchboards can have extra depth

behind the bussing in each distribution
section, can be front and rear aligned,
can have density rated bussing, can
include insulated case circuit breakers,
and can handle up to 4000 amps and
600 VAC.
Siemens SB3 switchboards can handle up

to 6000 amps and 600 VAC, are designed
for custom options, and can incorporate
busway and transformer connections, rear
access, and custom utility metering
© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 provisions.
Page 3-3
SEM3™ Embedded Micro Metering
SEM3™ Embedded Micro Metering Module Technology is

a modular metering solution that can be factory installed in
SB1, SB2, and SB3 switchboards for energy monitoring,
data analysis, and sub billing applications.
The flexible design allows for low, medium, and high

density metering requirements to be met efficiently and
economically using only a few standardized components.
SEM3 provides an innovative and cost effective metering

solution that can be incorporated into existing applications
such as power monitoring, building automation, and sub-
billing systems. SEM3 also has the flexibility to be installed
as a standalone solution with real-time data available from
the controller’s standard built-in web pages.
SEM3 has two levels of accuracy to meet the market’s

differing requirements and price points. This system makes
it easy to meter just the loads needed without the excess
hardware and space requirements of traditional solutions.
SEM3 is pre-engineered to integrate into new Siemens

panelboards and switchboards but can also be installed in
OEM equipment and retrofit applications.
Sm@rt DAS SB3 Switchboards
Siemens Sm@rt SB3 switchboards incorporate networked

intelligent devices and are configured and programmed to
communicate with a human machine interface (HMI) for
control and monitoring of the switchboard.
The HMI can be integrated into the switchboard or mounted

in a remote panel. Use of a remote HMI provides the added
advantage of control and monitoring from outside the arc
flash hazard boundary.
Typical equipment associated with a Sm@rt DAS SB3

switchboard includes a SIMATIC S7 PLC connected to
activation switches and indicator lights and electronic trip
unit circuit breakers, including WL circuit breakers with
Dynamic Arc Sentry (DAS) capability. The PLC can be
configured to communicate with a supervisory control
system for additional monitoring and control.
A variety of optional features are available to enhance the

capabilities of the system.

Rear Connected Switchboards (RCS)
Siemens Rear Connected Switchboards (RCS) differ from front-

connected SB1, SB2, and SB3 switchboards primarily in the
distribution sections. RCS distribution section branch feeders are
individually mounted and access to the outgoing cable terminals is
from the rear of the section. Bus bar extensions from the feeder
devices are run to the rear of the section stopping before the
conduit area for easy access and cable connection. An optional
cable management system can be provided to secure the
outgoing cables.
The front and rear of all sections align and are designed for
mounting away from the wall. Enclosures can be indoor (NEMA 1)
or outdoor (NEMA 3R) construction.
RCS switchboards accommodate requirements up to 6000 amps

and 600 VAC. The main bus can have a 400 to 6000 amp rating.
Main, tie, and branch devices are available in ampere ratings up
to 6000 amps.
RCS switchboards use WL insulated case and/or low-voltage

power circuit breakers with draw-out mountings. Features include
high breaker density, 100 kA standard short circuit bus bracing,
and three levels of horizontal bus. Options include
insulated/isolated bus, Dynamic Arc Flash Sentry, ModBus
© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 communication, and intelligent power monitoring. Page 3-6
Integrated Power System Switchboards
Siemens integrated power systems (IPS) switchboards integrate

multiple pieces of electrical distribution equipment into a single
assembly. The modular design of the IPS switchboard allows it to be
combined with standard service entrance or distribution
switchboards. IPS switchboards can be cable or bus connected to
existing switchboard lineups. IPS switchboards offer the following
advantages.
Reduced installation time

IPS switchboards arrive at a jobsite with the components factory
installed and wired. The result is significantly reduced installation time
and cost.
Reduced Space Requirements

By integrating components that are typically individually mounted, the
IPS switchboard can reduce the space requirements for typical
electrical equipment installation by up to 40%.
Reduced Installation Risk

IPS switchboards are assembled at Siemens manufacturing plants
with meticulous attention to details and strict testing procedures.
Using IPS switchboards eliminates risks, enabling projects to come in
on time and on budget.

IPS Switchboards – Commonly Mounted Equipment
IPS Switchboard Features

• All standard SB1, SB2, and SB3
switchboard features
• Lighting panelboards
• Distribution transformers
• Half high distribution chassis
• Individually mounted breakers
• Auxiliary sections for ACCESS
power monitoring, surge
protection devices, contactors,
relays, time clocks, motor
starters, customer equipment,
etc.

Simulators
Engineered to provide a real-world experience, Siemens

simulators are fully functional, ready-to-use systems
available in a variety of configurations.
System-level design makes the simulators an invaluable

tool for program testing and debugging, reinforcing learning,
shop floor troubleshooting, and more. With portable
construction and hard-shell cases, they can be easily
transported. Custom-built systems are also available.


topics:

Generator Ready Switchboards
Siemens Generator Ready quick connect switchboards meet the

market need for quick connection of a generator for temporary
back-up power. The most common applications of these
switchboards are retail stores with perishable goods, nursing
homes, and hospitals. However, these switchboards are also
suitable for many other commercial applications where a power
outage can result in increased cost or loss of revenue.
Features
• All standard SB1, SB2, and SB3 switchboard features
• Crouse-Hinds quick-connect Cam-Locks for a quick primary
connection method
• Standard mechanical lugs suitable for Type W welding cable for
a secondary connection
• NEMA 1 and NEMA 3R enclosures
• Trap door on NEMA 3R enclosure to maintain rating with cables
connected
• Labeled phases and ground connections
• Bus connection between generator breaker and plug-in quick
connects
• Mechanical interlocking with normal breaker
• Removable screw cover for covering quick-connects when not
in use
• Stand alone unit or hard bussed in a standard switchboard
© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 lineup Page 3-11
Generator Ready Switchboard Construction
Generator Breaker Compartment

The generator breaker can be connected to the normal
main switchboard by cable in retrofit applications or hard
bussed in new construction applications. The generator
breaker is key-interlocked with the main breaker in the
normal switchboard lineup. The switchboard can be rated
as suitable for use as service entrance equipment.
Quick-Connect Compartment
Crouse-Hinds quick-connect Cam-Locks are provided in a
compartment with a screw cover that can be easily
removed to gain access to the quick-connects. One end of
each quick-connect is connected to the switchboard and the
other end attaches to the generator cable. In addition to the
quick-connects, standard mechanical lugs are provided as
a secondary method of connection. The mechanical lugs
are rated for Type W welding cable, which is common in
generator applications.
Generator Connection
The switchboard generator breaker can be connected to a
new or existing switchboard lineup either by cable or hard
bussing.

Solar Ready Switchboards
Siemens solar ready switchboards provide a

solution for both AC and DC commercial
solar applications.
In addition to all standard switchboard

features, optional viewing windows are also
available for an additional level of safety
when working with inverter inputs. Siemens
switchboards meet all utility and code
requirements.

Skinny Main and Branch WL Switchboard Sections
Siemens skinny main and branch WL

sections provide a solution for electrical
rooms with a limited footprint.
In addition to all our standard switchboard

features, the skinny main switchboard
features a hinged auxiliary compartment for
easy access to lugs and through bus
connections.

4-High WL Switchboard Sections
Siemens 4-high WL switchboard sections

provide a solution for electrical rooms with a
limited footprint.
In addition to all our standard switchboard

features, the WL switchboard design
incorporates the high-end features of WL
circuit breakers in our most compact
footprint.

Commercial Multi-Metering Switchboards
Siemens commercial multi-metering switchboards are designed for

applications where multiple utility meters are required. These
applications include shopping centers, office buildings, and other
buildings with multiple tenants.
Siemens offers two types of multi-metering switchboards, SMM and

MMS. SMM switchboards are designed to meet EUSERC
specifications. MMS switchboards provide a high-quality, multi-
metering solution for areas where EUSERC compliance is not
necessary.
Features
• Up to 4000 ampere main bus rating
• Up to 600 VAC
• Bus bracing up to 200KAIC
• Type 1 and Type 3R enclosures
• Standard hot sequence metering with optional cold
• sequence metering
• 100, 200 or 320 ampere meter sockets
• Sockets include lever type manual bypass
• Ring-less type meter cover design
• All other SB1, SB2 & SB3 switchboard features

Stock Service Entrance Switchboards
Siemens stock service entrance switchboards are

designed as stock units to meet the fast delivery needs of
the market. All of Siemens stock switchboards are
suitable for use as service entrance equipment. These
switchboards combine utility metering provisions and a
main service disconnect that can either be a Vacu-Break
fusible switch or a molded case circuit breaker.
Stock switchboards have many applications, some of the

most common include: retail stores, office buildings, small
factories, commercial stores and shopping centers.
Individual Product Lines

Super Blue Pennant
• Specifically designed to meet EUSERC requirements
• Provision for EUSERC utility metering
• Main fusible switch or circuit breaker
• Optional distribution panel
BCT Service Cubicle
• Provision for utility metering (non-EUSERC)
• Main molded case circuit breaker
SCT Service Cubicle
• Provision for utility metering (non-EUSERC)
• Main Vacu-Break fusible switch
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Course Completion
This course covered the following This course has covered the topics shown on the left.
Thank you for your efforts. You can complete this course by
topics: taking the final exam and scoring at least 70%.
Chapter 1 - Introduction
• Overview
Chapter 2 – Service Entrance
Equipment
• Service Section

Basics of Switchboards (Siemens)

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Basics of Switchboards (Siemens)

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Basics of Switchboards

A quickSTEP Online Course

© Siemens industry, Inc. www.usa.siemens.com/step

Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-2

Welcome to Switchboards. This course covers

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-3

Upon completion of this course you will be able to…

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-4

Virtual Instructor-led Learning - Classroom lectures delivered in the convenience of your

Simulators - World-class simulation systems available for training or purchase

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-5

Power distribution systems are used in every residential,

Most of us are familiar with the power found in the average

The power is then distributed by a load center to various

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-6

Unlike single-family residential applications, which in most

Transformers used with three-phase power require three

The accompanying illustration shows the secondary

These are only examples of possible distribution

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-7

Power distribution systems used in commercial and

The power provided to a commercial or industrial facility is

Good distribution systems don’t just happen. Careful

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-8

The primary role of a switchboard is to divide the incoming

Because the voltages and currents vary with the

Other factors that cause switchboard configurations to vary

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-9

A small office building, for example, might require 120 volts

A switchboard divides the power into four feeders for

The two inner feeders supply panelboards that divide the

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-10

This example depicts the distribution system for a medium-

The power from the utility company is metered and enters

The feeder on the left powers a distribution switchboard,

The middle feeder powers another switchboard which

The feeder on the right supplies 208/120 volt power to

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-11

This chapter covers the following

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-12

The National Electrical Code® (NEC®) defines a

While switchboards and power panelboards perform similar

The accompanying illustration shows two switchboard

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-13

Switchboards include buses, which are metal bars mounted

Standard bus is sized on the basis of heat rise criteria,

As an option, conductor material can be sized according to

• Copper – 1000 amperes/sq. in.

Tapered-capacity through-bus is standard in Siemens

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-15

Switchboards are built according to standards set by Underwriters

When selecting switchboards and overcurrent protection devices, it is

The voltage rating of a switchboard must be at least equal to the system

The ampere rating is the current a switchboard or circuit protection device

Switchboard bus structures and bracing are designed to withstand a

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-16

When selecting switchboards and overcurrent protection devices, it is

NEC® Article 110.9 requires circuit protection equipment to have an

This chapter covers the following

© Siemens Industry, Inc. 2017 Page 1-18

The switchboard frame houses and supports the other

The modular construction of all Siemens service and

Rigid, bolted frames can be shipped individually and moved