Medium Voltage Switchboards

The MV switchboard basics.

Medium voltage switchboards, more commonly referred to MV switchboards, are used to safely supply and distribute power throughout medium voltage electrical configurations. Outfitted with aluminum or copper busbar, fuses, circuit breakers and other protection and distribution devices, MV switchboards deliver electricity to different branch circuits across the various sections of your building’s switchboard system. MV switchboards cater to system voltages that fall between 1000V and 72kV (72,000V) approximately.

Choosing the right MV switchboard.

You’ll likely find MV switchboards across a number of industries and applications, including large industrial manufacturing plants, power plants, mills, and more. MV switchboards can be installed either indoors or outdoors, but they must be enclosed at the proper NEMA rating. While there are no separate switchboard enclosures since switchboards are always enclosed already, MV switchboards are available across all NEMA ratings, including NEMA-1, 3R, 4/4X, and more.

Like any other electrical switchboard, MV switchboards use busbar to deliver electricity to branch circuits. Busbar is commonly made of either copper or aluminum, and each has their advantages. Copper is a more popular choice and has been used for many years. It’s also said to be a better conductor, though aluminum makes up for its lower conductivity with being a lighter material overall. Aluminum is also less expensive, more flexible, and more efficient with heat dissipation.