Electrical Distribution Board: Parts, Functions & Complete Overview
The image depicts an electrical distribution panel (also known as a distribution board).
It is made up of several main components:
1). Electricity Meter
2). Main Circuit Breaker
3). Wiring
4). Voltage & Current Monitoring Device
5). Residual Current Circuit Breaker
6). Miniature Circuit Breakers
1). Electricity Meter (top left)
This Electricity Meter digital meter measures total electrical energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). It collects and displays information for invoicing purposes.
2). Main Circuit Breaker (top right)
A big breaker that regulates and protects the whole electrical system. It disconnects the power supply in the event of an overload or short circuit.
3). Wiring (yellow, red, black and blue cables)
Insulated electrical wires that carry power from the meter and main breaker to additional protective devices and circuits.
4). Voltage & Current Monitoring Device (bottom left)
A digital display that shows the real-time voltage readings for each phase (L1, L2, L3), current and perhaps power factor. It helps to monitor the power supply’s stability and balance.
5). Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB/RCD, middle)
RCCB protects against leakage current and electric shocks by terminating the circuit when an imbalance is detected.
6). Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs, bottom right)
People breakers for various circuits in the building (for example, lighting, sockets, and appliances). They trip when there is an overload (or) short circuit in their respective circuits.
Overall, this configuration properly distributes incoming electrical power throughout a home or structure while also monitoring, protecting, and controlling the electrical system.
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