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Tuesday, October 15, 2013

The Switchboard versus switchgear

The switchboards are basically distribution boards. It receives a large amount of powers and dispatches it in small measures to various electrical equipments. They also have power controlling devices such as breakers, switches and fuses. They are of four classes. They are direct control panel type, remote mechanical control panel type, direct control truck type and electrically operated. 

Switchgear devices are basically mechanisms consisting of fuses, circuit breakers, and electrical relays. They are utilized to connect or disconnect the electrical energy flow. The former ones are said to be a type of switchgear apparatus as they have same basic mechanisms. 

Even though switchboard and switchgear seem to have similar functions, they do have differences. One of the main differences between them is the allowable voltage. Switchboards generally are used in commercial applications with energy levels under 600 volts whereas switchgear deals with voltages up-to 35000 volts. 

There is a difference in the circuit breakers that are utilized. Moulded case circuit breakers are generally used in former one. These breakers allow for low voltages to be utilized. In case of failure, the entire system has to be shut down so as to repair or replace the components. Systems that require continuous energy for functioning, it becomes a serious problem. In some situations, insulated case breakers may be used. While the system is live, they do allow for some maintenance although these breakers can only be utilized in the rear-accessible ones. Power circuit breakers are used in switchgear systems. They are able to handle high voltages. They enable breakers as well and other parts that are to be withdrawn or replaced while the system is still live. 

When it comes to the economical side, the boards are less costly. The switchgear systems are highly expensive and are even priced at two to three times of switchboard devices. Switchgear systems are more reliable and robust constructions. The technology is not affordable in most of the cases. This is why despite having so many positive points, switchboards are chosen.

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