Electricity is one of the most important things that one needs and cannot do without. They keep getting more and more advanced with time. But certain basic things are needed all the time and cannot change with time.
Meaning
A distribution panel or DB Panel is one such tool that enables the safe supply of energy to buildings. The basic working principle of an electrical distribution board is a fascinating one. A DB Panel is a product of an electrical system that divides an electrical power feed into subsidiary circuits while providing a protective layer or circuit breaker for each circuit.
In simpler terms, it ensures that electrical supply is safely distributed in the building. DB Panels can be bought as empty enclosures, a convenient, ready-to-use wired unit, or even something specially customised based on the user’s electrical requirement.
The best part about an electrical distribution board is that you can install it in separate parts and areas of your building without worrying, as long as a switch disconnector controls each board. DB Panel stands for Distribution Board Panel. A DB Panel may be known as a Consumer Unit in some places as it is mainly used for domestic house installations.
Working of a DB Panel
DB Panels are mainly used for distributing and controlling your energy supply at home. A DB Panel also stores the main switch, circuit breakers, bypass equipment, earth leakage units, and other switches.
All these collectively safeguard the electrical system and its usage in a building from damages arising from earth leakage units, overloads and short-circuits. A DB Panel also stores a residual current detector (RSD), a must-have for protection against shock or fire.
Types of DB Panels
Based on the application and requirements, here are some types of DB Panels:
Main Breaker Panel: This one is used for either even commercial or residential units. They are downstream of the supply from the meter cable. They contain the main circuit breaker that can cut off all supplies to the unit. They also indicate the amperage rating that the circuit can safely take the entire electrical current without giving any problems.
Main Lug Panel: This type is used when there is a main breaker panel upstream. They have a separate disconnector that can help disconnect it during fires and other calamities.
Sub-panel: Like main lug panels, they take the supply from the main breaker panel and split it into smaller circuits for big specific appliances and parts of the house. They, however, do not have separate disconnects.
Safety Tips while using Distribution Panels
A DB Panel should always be covered when not being handled. This is to safeguard it from corrosion and avoid damage to wires due to moisture, humidity and dust. The panel should be conveniently located so it can be easy to access.
While installing aboard, ensure that it complies with all the safety precautions and that it is accident-free.
