Exploring the Evolution of Switchboard Designs

"Unlocking Industrial Safety: Exploring the Evolution of Switchboard Designs"

   by Ohm Engineering Works | Apr 11, 2024 | Electric Company  

Switchboards are integral components of industrial distribution systems, playing a crucial role in ensuring safety and reliability within industrial settings. The design of switchboards is tailored to meet diverse industry applications, each with specific considerations that balance safety and cost-effectiveness. One key aspect often misunderstood is the form of segregation or separation within panels, as outlined by the IEC 61439 standards.

Let's explore the various forms of panel separation specified by IEC 61439:

• Form 1 Panel: This represents the most basic panel configuration where there is no segregation between functional units (switchgear) and busbars. These panels typically have a degree of protection of IP20 and are commonly found in small residential or commercial settings.

• Form 2A & 2B: Form 2 panels introduce segregation between busbars and switchgear. Form 2A indicates that the terminals and busbars reside within the same enclosure, often seen in double-door distribution boards for residential and office applications. Conversely, Form 2B features segregated busbars and terminals, commonly found in non-compartmentalized panels. Panels of this type typically offer a degree of protection of IP42/43.

• Form 3A & 3B: In Form 3 panels, functional units are separated by compartments. The segregation between busbars and terminals mirrors that of Form 2A & 2B. Form 3B is widely used in industrial applications and offers a higher degree of protection (IP54) against environmental factors.

• Form 4A & 4B: Form 4 panels are the most sophisticated and costly, providing extensive safety and reliability. In Form 4A, outgoing terminals of each functional unit are isolated from one another, while in Form 4B, they are isolated from the busbars. These advanced panels are typically reserved for critical installations such as data centers due to their high cost and complexity.

It's important to note that while Form 3 and Form 4 panels offer good protection against direct contact with live parts and busbars, they may still be susceptible to conditions like internal arcs. Therefore, system designers must conduct thorough system and process analyses before deciding on the appropriate form of panel for a specific application. This ensures that safety, reliability, and cost considerations are carefully balanced within the industrial context.