Electricity powers every aspect of modern life – from lighting our homes to running entire industries. But have you ever wondered what ensures a seamless flow of energy? One important, yet overlooked, component of this system is the distribution board.
Tucked away in utility rooms or embedded in the wall near the entrance, this concealed metal box directs electricity throughout your building. That said, its mechanism is a bit challenging to understand, especially when you consider its role in power safety.
Keep reading to learn what distribution boards are and how they’re critical to the modern power distribution system:
What is a Distribution Board
A distribution board is the central hub or the main control unit of an electrical system. It is a point where electricity from the main power supply is divided into different circuits, including circuit breakers and fuses.
A distribution board also makes sure every circuit receives the appropriate amount of power to prevent short circuits, electrical faults, and overloads.
Safe Power Distribution
This is pretty obvious. A distribution board ensures safe power distribution without posing risks to people or property. There are different types of distribution boards available for different settings, including:
Main Distribution Board (MDB)
It is used in large facilities or commercial buildings to handle high-voltage power from the utility and distribute it to various sub-panels.
Sub-Distribution Board (SDB)
Found in multi-story buildings, an SDB receives power from an MDB and distributes it to specific floors or areas of the building.
Final Distribution Board (FDB)
It is common in homes and small offices. An FDB directly connects to appliances and end-use equipment, such as lighting and sockets.
Think of a distribution board as a protective barrier between the main power supply and various electrical circuits.
Overload and Fault Protection
As hinted earlier, a distribution board can help prevent electricity hazards. Inside DBs, there are circuit breakers, fuses, and residual current devices (RCDs) that monitor the flow of electricity. As soon as an overload or fuse is detected, these safety devices automatically disconnect power. This helps protect electrical appliances, such as refrigerators, ACs, and ovens, from damage.
Efficient Power Management
A high-quality distribution board ensures that power is efficiently distributed across multiple circuits. Always check the Ingress Protection (IP) rating of a distribution board and make sure it can handle your specific electricity needs. For instance, IP40 is excellent for residential or light commercial applications and for environments with minimal exposure to dust or moisture.
In comparison, IP 56 is a highly durable rating that provides robust protection. It is excellent for outdoor industrial environments where exposure to the elements is higher.
Compliance with Electrical Safety Standards
In commercial and industrial buildings, compliance with electrical safety codes is more than a suggestion. It is mandatory to avoid legal issues and workplace hazards.
An electrical distribution board is designed to meet these rigorous safety standards. Your building will operate within safe limits, reducing the chances of costly legal cases.