Frequently Asked Questions
What is a load centre?
A load centre is an electrical enclosure that houses circuit breakers and distributes power to different circuits within a building. It helps manage and protect electrical systems by isolating faults and preventing overloads.
What is an electrical load centre used for?
Electrical load centres are used to centralise circuit protection and power distribution in residential, commercial and light industrial environments. They ensure safe and efficient delivery of electricity to multiple circuits from a single source.
What is a load centre panel?
A load centre panel often called a distribution panel is the physical unit that contains the circuit breakers and busbars for managing circuit connections. It provides a neat, accessible point for electrical maintenance and upgrades.
What is a load centre in a power system?
In a power system, a load centre refers to the location or equipment where electrical power is distributed to various loads. It acts as the control hub for circuit management, ensuring stable and balanced power flow across an installation.
What are common load centre sizes?
Load centres are available in a range of configurations to suit different installation requirements. Common options include 6-pole, 12-pole and 24-pole models, with both surface and flush mounting available. Custom sizes can be specified for larger systems.
What are standard load centre dimensions?
Dimensions vary depending on capacity and mounting type. Compact residential units may measure under 400 mm in height, while larger industrial load centres are built to accommodate higher circuit counts and greater clearance for cabling.
How do distribution boards differ from load centres?
Distribution boards typically manage larger or more complex power systems, while load centres are designed for smaller-scale or more contained installations. Both serve to distribute electricity safely, but load centres focus on simplicity and compact design.
Are IPD load centres compatible with other brands?
Yes. IPD load centres and chassis systems are compatible with ABB and most other leading brands, making them suitable for both new installations and system upgrades.