Knowledge Boost | The Differences between Distribution Boxes, Switch Cabinets, Control Boxes and Distribution Cabinets
In simple terms, the box that distributes electrical energy is called a distribution box. It is mainly used for the control and distribution of electrical equipment, and plays a protective role against overload, short circuit and leakage of the line. Distribution boxes are installed in various places, such as schools, government agencies, hospitals, factories, workshops, and homes, like Lighting Distribution Boxes and power distribution boxes.
2. A switchgear is a complete set of switchgear and control equipment. It serves as the power center and the main power distribution device. It is mainly used for the control, monitoring, measurement and protection of power lines and major electrical equipment. It is often set up in substations, distribution rooms and other places.
Apart from differences in functions, installation environments, internal structures, and controlled objects, the main feature of distribution boxes and switch cabinets is their different external dimensions. Distribution boxes are small in size and can be concealed in walls or stand on the ground. However, switch cabinets are large in size and can only be installed in substations and distribution rooms.
3. The Control Box is used both inside and outside various buildings for power and lighting distribution as well as motor control. It is suitable for wall-mounted indoor and floor-standing outdoor installation as a power distribution device. It is mainly used for the control of fire pumps, submersible pumps, fire fans, fan control, lighting power distribution control, etc. The control methods include direct start control, star-delta reduced-voltage start control, autotransformer reduced-voltage start control, frequency converter start control, soft start control and various other control methods. It can also use disconnectors and fuse switches as isolation break points.
4. A distribution cabinet is a low-voltage distribution device formed by assembling switchgear, measuring instruments, protective devices and auxiliary equipment in a closed or semi-closed metal cabinet or panel according to the electrical wiring requirements. During normal operation, the circuit can be connected or disconnected by means of manual or automatic switches. There are many types of distribution cabinets. When it malfunctions or operates abnormally, it cuts off the circuit or gives an alarm by means of protective electrical appliances. The measuring instrument can display various parameters during operation, adjust certain electrical parameters, and give prompts or signals when deviating from the normal working state. It is commonly used in various power generation, distribution and transformation substations.