Glossary · Electrical engineering and control panels
Switchgear
Also known as: Switchgear assembly, Switchboard
German: Schaltanlage
In electrical engineering, switchgear is the combination of switching, protective, measuring and control devices with their enclosures and connections, used to distribute electrical power and to switch, protect and isolate circuits; low-voltage assemblies are covered by the IEC 61439 series and high-voltage switchgear by the IEC 62271 series.
- Control panels
In one sentence
Switchgear combines switching, protection and measuring devices in assemblies that distribute power and switch, protect and isolate circuits.
Example
The main low-voltage switchgear of the production hall distributes power from the transformer to the machine cabinets and motor control centers.
How it applies
- Engineering: Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies are designed and verified according to IEC 61439; the assembly manufacturer performs design and routine verification. Switchgear also includes motor control centers.
- Safety: Work on switchgear involves shock and arc flash hazards. Access is limited to electrically skilled persons, and isolation procedures apply.
- Documentation: Deliverables include single-line diagrams, assembly documentation, verification reports and operating instructions for switching. Clear labeling of feeders in the switchgear and in the documentation is essential for correct isolation.
Switchgear vs. control cabinet
Switchgear focuses on power distribution and switching. A Control cabinet houses machine control equipment. Both can be assemblies under IEC 61439, and "switchgear and controlgear" is the formal umbrella term.