Electrical control panel components are utilized in every piece of equipment across all industries. It is challenging to delineate all potential combinations since each industry and the majority of companies have established their preferred component specifications.
A control panel is a box that contains electrical components required to run a factory machine or process. A typical industrial control panel component list includes:
Main Circuit Breaker
It serves as a junction between the incoming power line and the electric control panel. A mechanical apparatus enabling an operator to establish or sever the electrical connection between the control panel or power system and the power line. The use or implementation of the primary circuit breaker is contingent upon the specific type of circuit breaker in use. However, its primary function is often to serve as an intermediary safeguard for the electric panel system, instantly disconnecting the system in order to protect it from power line fault currents. The power line connecting to the main circuit breaker might have a voltage level that varies based on the specific load requirements.
Surge Arrester
Branch Circuit Breaker
It serves as an intermediary between a feeder circuit breaker and a branch circuit. A mechanical apparatus that enables an operator to establish or sever the electrical connection between the power source and the electrical devices. The use or implementation of a branch circuit breaker is contingent upon the specific type of circuit breaker employed, although often it serves as an intermediary measure to safeguard electrical equipment from power line faults by automatically interrupting the circuit. Certain versions may also provide protection against thermal heat, namely when a large current is being pulled through the wires, albeit not to the extent of a short circuit.
Transformer or Power Supply
The electric control panel is equipped with step-down transformers that reduce the voltage from the power line to the specific voltage needed by the electric component. In situations where the distribution line ranges from 575v to 120v and the desired electric voltage is even lower, such as 24v, step-down transformers or DC power supplies are used to reduce the voltage to the appropriate level for the electrical control panel. This ensures the safe operation of the system and allows the control devices to function as intended
Once the electrical control panel receives electricity from the main circuit breaker and distributes it through a transformer or power supply, the various voltages can be connected to terminal blocks to facilitate further power routing inside the panel.
Occasionally, certain electric equipment needs many levels of voltage. In such instances, the installation of several step-down transformers or DC power supplies is necessary to provide precise voltage to the designated electrical equipment.
Terminal Block
Terminal blocks are essential electrical components found in heavy-duty electrical control panels. They are used to connect numerous power sources or voltage levels. The terminal blocks have a dedicated power supply with a defined voltage, which is then distributed to the relevant equipment located throughout the electrical control panel.
Controllore logico programmabile (PLC)
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a device that may be programmed to control and automate various industrial processes.
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) serves as the central processing unit of an electrical control panel, operating based on logical input. The PLC is provided with predetermined inputs, which it uses to control the whole electrical system of enterprises. The device is linked to many inputs from different terminal blocks and produces multiple outputs based on power signals. Various types of sensing devices, such as proximity switches and sensors, are deployed on assembly lines in industries. These devices offer essential input to the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), enabling it to adjust the logical output and maintain system efficiency within specified parameters.
Relays and Contactors
Relays are protective devices that establish and break the connection between electric equipment and the power line. The operator is granted control over the activation and deactivation of electric circuits, allowing them to establish and interrupt the flow of electricity. Electric control panels have three distinct types of relays.
Firstly, there are diminutive relays that regulate the power supply to compact electrical devices, such as lights and fans. The second kind consists of contactors, which are oversized relays used to regulate the operation of motors. The third category is referred to as master control relays (MCR) and is used for the emergency stop circuit. It is responsible for interrupting all power to output devices in case the user activates an emergency device.
Network Switch
The Network Switch controls the 24v communication connection that connects the PLC with all other equipment, which must adhere to the predetermined logic and criteria defined by operators. The network switch regulates the link between the PLC and other electrical equipment within the panel, enabling communication.
The Human Machine Interface (HMI)
The electrical control panel features an intricate internal configuration, comprising several electrical components, hence posing challenges for the user in comprehending the current status, making appropriate decisions, and providing input to the system.
The Human-Machine Interface (HMI) provides a platform for the operator to comprehend the logical processes of the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and electric control panel. It simplifies the process of providing direct inputs. The primary objective of HMI is to aid the operator in managing the tasks of the electrical control panel and enabling them to retain control over the power system.
Push Buttons or Pilot Lights
Control switches or indicator lights that are activated by pressing them.
Push buttons are an essential electrical element of an electrical control panel. Typically, they are located at the panel’s door. Typically, there is a red mushroom-shaped push button for emergency stop and a push-button for resetting the machine control relay (MCR). The operator uses additional buttons to regulate various functions of the machine or process.
Pilot lights have a striking resemblance to push buttons, although they serve solely as a visual signal for the operator, conveying information about the activities of the control system.
Occasionally, push buttons and pilot lights are integrated into a single device and employed for many functions.
Conclusione
Today we talked about the components of a control panel. Each control panel will have a main power source coming in that is distributed throughout the panel to varying devices for control and monitoring.
Electronic control panels will come in different sizes but they all have similar devices that we talked about today.
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