Distribution Boards
A distribution board, distribution panel or panel board is one of the most critical parts of an electricity supply system. The board's primary function is to take the electricity from the main supply and distribute it safely to individual circuits throughout a property. All buildings will have at least one distribution box, which is typically located where the main electrical feed enters the structure. The sizing of a panel board depends entirely on the amount of electricity being supplied and how many individual circuits there are in a system.
RS Hong Kong have a great selection of high-quality distribution boards suitable for both single and three-phase applications. Our range of panel boards is supplied to you from some of the industry-leading brands including, Schneider Electric, Siemens, ABB, Eaton and Contactum.
Types of Distribution Boards
Distribution boxes are essential components in electrical systems, directing power from the main supply to various circuits while ensuring safety and efficiency. Below are two primary types:
Main Distribution Board (MDB)
The Main Distribution Board serves as the central hub in an electrical system, receiving power from the main supply and distributing it to subsidiary circuits. Typically found in large buildings and industrial facilities, MDBs house protective devices such as circuit breakers and fuses to safeguard the system. They are designed to handle high current loads and are often equipped with metering and monitoring equipment for efficient power management.
Final Distribution Board (FDB)
Final Distribution Boards are located closer to the end-user, distributing electricity to specific areas or equipment within a building. They are equipped with protective devices like miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) to protect individual circuits. FDBs are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications to ensure localised control and protection of electrical circuits.
How a Distribution Board Works?
A distribution board is the central hub of power where the main electric cable enters the board and is routed to secondary circuits. Inside the enclosure, you will find the main switch, circuit breakers, earth leakage units and bus bars. All of these devices work together to protect the system and linked equipment from hazards caused by short circuits, earth leakage or overload.
Benefits of Using Distribution Boards
Safety is one of the main benefits of using a distribution board. Using one ensures that your electrical supply is evenly distributed to each circuit. This, in turn, dramatically reduces circuits being overloaded, resulting in one circuit shutting down your whole system. Some other advantages are
- Increases energy efficiency
- Fewer electrical short outs and short circuits
- Reduces the need for extra wiring
- Saves space on larger circuits
Applications of Distribution Boards
Distribution boards are essential components in managing electrical power across various environments, ensuring safety and efficiency.
Home
In residential settings, distribution boards, often referred to as consumer units, manage power supply to lighting, appliances, and security systems. They typically handle single-phase low-voltage circuits, providing protection through a miniature circuit breaker (MCB) and residual current circuit breaker (RCBO).
Offices
Offices utilise distribution boards to supply power to lighting, HVAC systems, and office equipment. These boards often incorporate sub-distribution panels to manage power across different departments or floors, ensuring organised and efficient power distribution.
Factories
In industrial environments, distribution boards handle the electrical supply to machinery, equipment, and lighting. They are designed to manage higher loads and provide robust protection against electrical faults, ensuring the safe operation of industrial processes.
Commercial Buildings
Commercial buildings employ distribution boards to manage power distribution to various areas, including retail spaces, elevators, and common areas. These boards often include features like lighting control panels and motor control centres to efficiently manage electrical loads.
How to Choose a Power Distribution Board?
Choosing the right power distribution board (PDB) is crucial for ensuring electrical safety and efficiency. Here's a concise guide to help you select the appropriate PDB:
Number of Circuits
Determine the total number of circuits required, taking into account both current needs and potential future expansion requirements. This will influence the size and configuration of the PDB.
Load Capacity
Assess the total electrical load (in amperes) to ensure the PDB can handle the demand without overheating or tripping.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Usage
Select an enclosure with the appropriate Ingress Protection (IP) rating:
- Indoor: Typically, an IP20 or IP40 rating suffices.
- Outdoor: Choose enclosures with higher IP ratings, such as IP65 or IP66, to protect against dust and water ingress.
Compliance with Local Electrical Standards
In Hong Kong, power distribution boards must comply with local regulations and standards to ensure safety and legal compliance. The Electrical Products (Safety) Regulation (Cap. 406) under the Electricity Ordinance mandates that electrical products, including distribution boards, meet essential safety requirements.
How to Order Distribution Boards from RS?
Looking to buy distribution boards in Hong Kong? RS is a trusted supplier of distribution boards from leading brands like HENSEL, Eaton, and Siemens. You can order online for next-day delivery or call 852 2421 9898. We also offer blanket orders with spend control for convenience. Choose RS for reliable products and flexible purchasing options.
How Does the Delivery of Distribution Boards Work at RS Hong Kong?
When it comes to delivery, RS offers fast and flexible delivery options for distribution boards, including same-day and next-day delivery across the region. Customers in Hong Kong can also choose scheduled delivery times to suit their needs. For full details on delivery options, charges, and cut-off times, please refer to our delivery information page.