An electrical panel is an enclosure, usually a metal box or plastic panel, that contains major electrical components that control and monitor a variety of mechanical processes. These are live systems that require maintenance, with planned preventative maintenance and condition-based monitoring being the most effective methods. Electricians need access to electrical panels to troubleshoot, make adjustments, and perform electrical safety tests. The operators interact with the panel controls to operate and control the plant and process. The components in the control panel facilitate many tasks, for example, they can monitor the pressure or flow in a pipe and send signals to open or close a valve. They are common in most industries and an essential part. Problems with them, including negligence, can devastate any business and put employees at risk. This makes safe panel operation a desirable skill for both electrical and non-electrical workers.
Control panels come in many shapes and sizes. They range from a small box against a wall to long rows of cabinets located in specific floor areas. Some controls are located in a control room under the supervision of a small team of production coordinators, while others are located near the machines and controlled by designated production workers. Another form of control panel common in Britain is the Motor Control Center or MCC, which includes all engine starting and control equipment to power the heavy rig and may include high voltage supplies such as 3.3 kV in certain circumstances. and 11kV.
Some of the components of an electrical panel include: