What is the function of a distribution board (DB)?
How many times have you come across a concealed metal box embedded in the wall near your entrance? Quite a few times, isn’t it?
Well, what is this box and what role does it play in your home? Would you like to find out?
This box is called the distribution board (DB).
What is a distribution board (DB)?
It is one of the essential components of a home’s electrical system. Also known as the distribution panel, the distribution board primarily distributes electrical power to different circuits, assuring safety and control over the electrical supply.
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The power supplier:
The distribution board acts as a hub that connects the power supply from the provider to the electrical circuits in your home. The board distributes power to different circuits through protective devices like circuit breakers or fuses. So, basically, all your electrical appliances and devices receive the power supply from the distribution board.
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Electrical protection:
Protecting against overloading and electrical faults is one of the primary functions of distribution boards. The electrical circuits in the home can only handle specific loads and overload can damage the wiring, leading to short circuits or even electrical hazards. To prevent this, the circuit breakers or fuses in the distribution board interrupt the flow of electricity if the circuit’s current exceeds the rated capacity.
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Control over the electrical circuits:
Each electrical circuit in the home is designed to power specific appliances or devices. And the distribution board enables you to control the power supply to every circuit. This function is highly used when you need to perform maintenance or repair work on a particular circuit. The distribution board can isolate a circuit from the rest of the electrical system to ensure safety.
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Easy access:
Providing convenient access to protective devices is one of the important functions of the distribution board. The easy access simplifies the process of resetting circuit breakers or replacing the fuses in case of overload or fault. Thus, it ensures that faults or overloading issues are quickly identified and resolved, minimizing the risk of electrical damage or fire hazards.
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In line with safety standards and regulations:
In many countries, distribution boards are compulsorily enforced by law to ensure compliance with electrical safety standards. Hence, these boards are always designed to meet the latest safety standards and regulations. It’s important that the distribution boards should always be installed by a qualified electrician to make sure that it is correctly wired and grounded to prevent electrical shock hazards.
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Managing energy usage in the home:
Last but not the least, distribution boards are very helpful in managing energy usage in the home. It helps in monitoring and identifying circuits that use more energy and circuits in which you can make energy-saving improvements.
Types of electrical distribution boards
Different types of distribution boards are available for various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Some of them are as follows:
- Main Distribution Board (MDB): Found in commercial and industrial setups, the MDB is the primary hub for distributing electricity from the main supply to different circuits or sub-distribution boards.
- Sub-Distribution Board (SDB): Used in larger facilities or multi-story buildings, SDBs receive power from the MDB and distribute it to specific areas or floors, helping streamline electrical management.
- Final Distribution Board (FDB): Common in residential settings, the FDB directly connects to appliances and end-use equipment, providing a final layer of distribution and control over circuit breakers.
- Lighting Distribution Board (LDB): Designed specifically for managing lighting circuits, the LDB ensures a stable and dedicated power supply to all lighting fixtures.
- Power Distribution Board (PDB): Typically used for heavy machinery in industrial settings, the PDB delivers and controls power for large equipment, often featuring high-capacity circuit breakers.
Each type serves a unique purpose, enhancing safety and efficiency in managing power across various applications.
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Main Breaker Panel:-
The Main Breaker Panel serves as the central distribution point for electrical power in most buildings. It houses the main breaker, which controls the flow of electricity from the utility to the entire electrical system within the building. This panel distributes power to various circuits, providing safety and control by allowing the main power supply to be shut off if needed.
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Main Lug Panel:-
The Main Lug Panel distributes power without a main breaker. Unlike a Main Breaker Panel, it relies on an upstream breaker for power cut-off, making it ideal for sub-panels in areas like garages or outbuildings.
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Subpanels:-
Subpanels play a crucial role in managing circuit load, streamlining wiring, and enabling efficient control of different zones within a building. By distributing power closer to specific areas, they help prevent overloads on the main panel, reduce the need for extensive wiring, and allow for easy circuit management, especially in larger spaces.
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Fuse Boxes:-
Fuse boxes are an older type of distribution panel that protect electrical circuits using fuses instead of circuit breakers. When a circuit overloads, the fuse blows, cutting off the power to prevent damage. Though less common today, fuse boxes still provide reliable circuit protection.
In conclusion, distribution boards serve a vital function in homes. They provide safety, protection, and control over the power supply within the home. It is important to ensure that the distribution board is installed correctly and complies with the latest safety standards and regulations, whether you are considering a renovation or building a new one. By doing so, you make sure that your home’s electrical system is safe, efficient, and reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About What is the function of a distribution board (DB)?:
Q1. What criteria is used to find the dimension of a DB (power distribution board)?
The dimension of a power distribution board (DB) is determined by several criteria like equipment and component size, number of circuits, wiring, and cable management, future expansion, etc. However, it is important to understand that the specific criteria for determining the dimension of a DB may vary depending on factors such as local electrical codes, specific project requirements, and the expertise of electrical engineers or professionals involved in the design and installation process.
Q2. Can distribution boards prevent electrical fires?
Yes, distribution boards can help us in many ways to prevent electrical fires. Distribution boards include circuit protection devices such as circuit breakers or fuses. These devices are designed to detect electrical faults, such as overloads or short circuits, and quickly interrupt the flow of electricity to prevent excessive current and overheating. By promptly disconnecting the faulty circuit, they help reduce the risk of electrical fires caused by overheating or electrical faults.
Q3. How do I choose the right distribution board?
To choose the right distribution board you should determine the total electrical load that the distribution board will be serving. This will help determine the number and size of the circuit, as well as the overall capacity of the distribution board. Identify the number of circuits you need in the distribution board on the basis of present and future requirements for lighting, power outlets, appliances, and specialized equipment.
Q4. Can a distribution board be customized for specific electrical requirements?
Yes, distribution boards can be customized to suit specific electrical requirements. Customization allows for the integration of specific features, components, and configurations to meet the unique needs of an electrical system.
Q5. Is it possible to expand or modify circuits in a distribution board?
Yes, distribution boards can be customized to suit specific electrical requirements. Customization allows for the integration of specific features, components, and configurations to meet the unique needs of an electrical system.