What Is A 3-Phase Switchboard?

What Is A 3-Phase Switchboard?

April 26, 2024

In Australia, single-phase power is found in most houses; however, three-phase power may be used to link larger homes to the grid. There are numerous overhead wires above street poles because electricity is produced and distributed in three stages. 3-phase switchboard permits us to use a single electrical supply to provide both 240V and 415V power.

Setting up a three-phase power supply has several advantages over a single-phase one for various residences and commercial buildings. In case you are pondering over whether this choice is suitable for you, we have compiled an extensive guide on 3-phase switchboard in Australia.

3-Phase Switchboard

A 3-phase switchboard is sometimes referred to as a distribution board or panel. It is a key part of an electrical distribution system. This distribution board separates power and directs it to different locations of usage through circuit division. These switchboards are used in residential, commercial, and industrial contexts in Australia, where three-phase electricity supply is the norm.

A 3-Phase Switchboard’s Components

• Main Switch: This is the main switch used to cut off electricity to the switchboard as a whole. It acts as a safety precaution in case of emergencies or maintenance.
• Circuit Breakers: These gadgets guard against overloads and short circuits on specific circuits. To avoid harming the wiring or linked appliances, they trip automatically when the current surpasses a safe threshold.
• Residual Current Devices: RCDs or residual current devices are also called safety switches. They are designed to trip the circuit if they detect a leakage current, averting electric shocks and maybe fatalities.
• Phase Bars: The different circuits in the switchboard receive the three-phase power supply from these cables.
• Neutral Bars: The neutral bars give the current in the circuits a way to return to the power source.
• Earth Bars: Earth bars are part of the grounding system, which makes sure that any errant currents are safely sent into the earth. Thus, these bars help in minimizing potential electrical risks.

Major Justifications For Installing A 3-Phase Switchboard

1. They are more dependable at maintaining system security and provide a lot more power.
2. When installing 3-phase systems, appliances, or machinery in a home, air conditioning is one of the major power-hungry items that 3-phase systems can handle.
3. Older appliances that are being replaced, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and stoves, require more power than the new ones.
4. The outdated electrical system has to be replaced since it is too risky to continue using.

Installation Of 3-Phase Switchboard

The new 3-phase system is installed in the house by a level 2 licensed electrician. A typical electrician will not be able to install the 3-phase system correctly due to its complexity and advanced nature. If there is an existing 3-phase system, the level 2 electrician will safely remove it and install the new one.

Every step of the procedure is carried out safely, and inspections are done at every stage of the work. This is to guarantee that every component of the system is securely connected and that every point is secure.

Final Consideration

Australia has stringent electrical laws and standards, such as the Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules), that must be followed while installing 3-phase switchboards. The 3-phase switchboard plays a vital role in powering homes, companies, and industries across the nation. But remember to always hire a reputed electrician to make the required changes.