What are Distribution Boards & What are They Used For?

In the world of technology, electricity has become an indispensable resource. And if you are a technician or you are in the process of building, you’ll definitely come across distribution boards. These are the main part of any electrical setup in any building, and they play a crucial role in ensuring that everything in the building is powered, and in the right way.

So what exactly are distribution boards, and why are they so important?

What is a Power Distribution Board?

A distribution board, also known as an electrical or distribution panel, is an electrical component that controls how power within a building is distributed. When a building is connected to power, at the end of the mains cable is usually the distribution panel. The panel acts as the gateway, and it splits the mains power into multiple secondary or subsidiary circuits. These circuits can then go to different rooms or appliances within the building.

As it’s the gateway, a distribution board acts as the control centre for all power within a building. A circuit-breaker panel board also helps disconnect power in the event of an overload or fault. If you’ve ever had an issue with your sockets and the power is cut off for all sockets but the lights remained on, that was the work of your distribution board.

Functions of Distribution Panels

Distribution panels play several important roles in any building, which all ensure that power is used both safely and efficiently.

Power Distribution

Since distribution panels receive power from the main supply, they act as the central hub. They are, therefore, responsible for distributing the power to various circuits and subpanels within a building or facility. Power is distributed evenly to prevent overloading and the disruptions that would arise from this. However, it is also distributed based on the requirements. For example, kitchen and laundry room circuits will typically have more power than, say, the bedroom. 

Circuit Protection

Distribution panels don’t just distribute, they also protect. They usually come equipped with circuit breakers or fuses that are meant to prevent things such as overloading or short circuits. Without these panels, such issues would lead to overheating and damage to equipment, which would also pose potential fire hazards. 

When a circuit breaker board detects an issue, that particular circuit is turned off immediately. You can then turn it back on, but only after solving the issue. In the case of a fuse, the fuse will melt, and you would need to replace it with another one of the appropriate rating.

Circuit Management & Organization

Using an electrical panel helps provide a structured way for dividing and controlling circuits within a building, which ensures that power is efficiently distributed and used. It does this by dividing mains power into smaller circuits, each serving specific areas, rooms, or devices. This division allows for better control, distribution, and monitoring of electrical power throughout the premises.

Electrical Safety & Code Compliance

Distribution panels play a crucial role when it comes to general electrical safety and compliance. Apart from circuit breakers and fuses, panels often come with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). These are safety devices that are used to detect imbalances in electrical currents caused by ground faults or electrical leakage. When one is detected, the GFCI immediately cuts off the circuit to prevent electrical shocks.

Distribution panels also contribute to compliance with electrical codes and regulations. This is because they provide space and a central place to implement various code-mandated practices, such as grounding.

Scalability and Future Expansion

Distribution panels make it easy to scale up the electrical connection in a building. To achieve that, all you need to do is add new circuit breakers or sub-panels. If the layout or purpose of certain areas changes, the distribution panel can also be adjusted to accommodate the new electrical requirements. And even if your distribution panel becomes outdated, you can always upgrade or modify it to meet new needs or code requirements.