The electric panel must be considered a component of the electrical installation in the same way as a circuit-breaker or a plug socket. It is made up of several pieces of switchgear and control-gear assemblies grouped into one or more adjacent enclosures. This article describes the definition, components, and types of the electrical panel. It helps you to understand the types of low voltage electrical panels.

What is an electrical panel?

The electrical panel is the main component of an electrical distribution system that divides electrical power to the branch circuits while providing protection devices for each circuit in a common enclosure.

In essence, electrical panels are used to protect against electrical overloads and short circuits while distributing electricity throughout a building or facility.

APG ELECTRICALS PVT. LTD defines an electrical panel as a single panel or group of panel units designed for assembly in the form of a single panel; including buses, automatic over-current devices, and equipped with or without switches for the control of light, heat, or power circuits; designed to be placed in a cabinet or cutout box placed in or against a wall or partition and accessible only from the front

According to the APG ELECTRICALS PVT. LTD definition, electrical panels are:

• Used to control light, heat, or power circuits
• Placed in a cabinet or cutout box
• Mounted in or against a wall
• Accessible only from the front

Other definitions of the electrical panel:

• Panel-board
• Distribution board
• Electrical switchboard

Electrical panel types

Electrical panels are often categorized by their general application, whether they are used for lighting and appliances or used for power. There are 4 types of panels available: Lighting electrical panels, power electrical panels, switchboards, low voltage switchgear.