Mahdi Hojati

This content explains what an electrical panel is, the role it plays in power distribution and protection, and provides a concise overview of the SIVACON electrical panel, including its types and key features.
A general definition of an electrical panel: a large panel, frame, or enclosure in which switches, overcurrent protective devices, and other electrical equipment are installed on, inside, or behind it.

The role of an electrical panel is to allow the incoming electrical supply to be divided into smaller circuits for distribution, and to provide switching, current protection, and (optionally) measurement for these separate circuits.

Industrial electrical panels and building electrical panels are often confused, but they serve very different purposes. A building panel distributes power to everyday loads such as lights, outlets, HVAC equipment, and elevators, while an industrial electrical panel controls machines, motors, sensors, drives, and automation systems. Understanding the right electrical panel components is critical because the wrong design can lead to overheating, downtime, failed inspections, or unsafe operation. This guide explains the key industrial electrical components, compares industrial electrical panels with building panels, and breaks down the main panel components, types, and selection points every engineer, technician, or facility owner should know.

Ask two engineers where high voltage starts and you’ll get two answers, both correct. Under ANSI/NEMA C84.1, high voltage begins at 100 kV and anything from 1 kV to 100 kV is medium voltage. Under IEC equipment terminology, anything above 1000 V AC is in the high-voltage domain — which is why the standard governing 13.8 kV switchgear is titled IEC 62271, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear.

That collision causes real specification errors, so this guide starts by settling it, then compares HV and LV switchgear on the four things that actually differ: what’s inside them, how they handle arc energy, what drives their cost, and where each belongs in a distribution system.

Steel electrical panels are used when durability, hygiene, and environmental resistance matter. In this guide, you’ll get a clear, practical overview of steel electrical panels, common stainless grades (304 and 316), junction box basics, and the IP protection considerations that impact real-world performance.