Distribution boxes centralize electrical energy distribution, circuit control, and equipment protection. They are categorized by application:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Household Distribution Boxes | Compact designs with integrated leakage protection (30mA RCDs) and miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) for lighting circuits (0–16A). |
| Industrial Distribution Boxes | High capacity (≥250A), modular drawer-type structures for easy maintenance, and IP54+ protection against dust/water. |
| Outdoor Distribution Boxes | IP65-rated enclosures made of stainless steel or engineering plastics, resistant to UV, corrosion, and temperature extremes (-40°C to +65°C). |
| Component | Function | Technical Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Circuit Breakers | Overload/short-circuit protection | Thermal-magnetic trip units, adjustable trip settings |
| Surge Protectors (SPDs) | Lightning/overvoltage defense | 8/20μs waveform protection, ≥40kA discharge capacity |
| Busbars & Terminal Blocks | Secure power distribution | Tinned copper/aluminum construction, ≥600V rating |
Critical for wet or outdoor settings (e.g., bathrooms, marine applications):
IP67/IP65 Ratings: Block water ingress and dust. Examples include rocker switches with silicone seals and corrosion-resistant silicone covers.
Durability: Bakelite or ABS housings withstand mechanical stress; silver-plated contacts ensure >50,000 operational cycles.
Marine lighting systems
Outdoor fog lamps
Industrial control panels
Wastewater treatment plants
Construction site power
IP65/IP67 Designs: ABS plastic enclosures with rubber gaskets and cable glands (e.g., M24 glands) for dust/water resistance.
Construction Features: Pre-drilled holes with customizable entry points. Impact-resistant material (e.g., reinforced ABS). Sizes range from 100×100×70mm to 290×190×140mm.
| Environment | Application Examples | Protection Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor | Electrical terminals, Solar panel connections | UV resistance, IP67 rating |
| Industrial | PCB enclosures, Motor control units | Chemical resistance, Vibration proofing |
| Harsh Conditions | Sewage facilities, Marine equipment | Corrosion protection, Submersion resistance |
Sealed Designs: Silicone or neoprene liners with IP68 ratings for submersion resistance (>1m depth for 30+ mins).
Material Technology: Neoprene (SBR/CR rubber) offers flexibility, ozone resistance, and thermal insulation (-55°C to +125°C).
Wind turbine wiring systems - Exposed to weather extremes and vibration
Submersible pumps - Require permanent underwater operation
Outdoor communication equipment - Demands dust/water protection
Electric vehicle charging stations - Exposure to weather elements
Configuration Types: Barrier strips for high-voltage (≥250V) applications. DIN-rail-mounted blocks for modular setups. Feed-through types for wire-to-wire connections.
Safety Engineering: Flame-retardant materials (UL94 V-0 rated) and screw-clamp mechanisms with anti-loosening design.
System Integration: Used alongside busbars in distribution boxes for organized, expandable circuits with current ratings up to 150A.
| Environment Type | Recommended Features | Technical Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| High Humidity | Stainless steel enclosures | IP65+ sealing, Drainage weepholes |
| Extreme Temperatures | Thermal management | Cooling fans, Heat-dissipating vents, 90°C rated components |
| Chemical Exposure | Corrosion-resistant materials | 316 stainless steel, Fiberglass-reinforced plastics |