Distribution Cabinet vs Control Cabinet: What's the Difference?

From a casual glance it may appear that a distribution cabinet and a control cabinet are one and the same, however there are a couple of critical differences between the two. Let’s examine what makes them special and how that makes them indispensable in electrical systems.

Distribution Cabinet vs Control Cabinet

Overview Distribution cabinet and control cabinet are key equipment in electricity system, since they have different functions. A distributing box serves to distribute electricity to different lines or loads, a control box serves to control and monitor the electric devices in a system.

Distribution Cabinets and Control Cabinets – What's the Difference?

One major distinction between distribution cabinets and control cabinets is their purpose. Distribution boxes are the core of distribution protection and power distribution stations, used to distribute power and protect lines from overload, short circuit, and the like. Control panels, however, are provided with control members such as relays, timers and sensors for controlling the operation of electric apparatus.

Another difference is the parts that each of them has in a file cabinet. Distribution cabinet usually house components including circuit breakers, fuses and busbars for controlling the distribution of electricity between different sections of a building or establishment. Control panels, meanwhile, might contain products such as PLCs, motor product starters, or HMIs to direct machinery or systems action.

Distribution Cabinet vs Control Cabinet

If distribution cabinet are used for power distribution and overcurrent protection, control cabinets are specifically designed for the control and supervision of electrical systems/devices. This distinction is important for the safe and effective operation of electrical systems in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities.

What is the Difference:Panel and Distribution Panels

Distribution cabinets are also like traffic cops, steering energy to various parts of a building or a facility. They help provide an efficient and secure transfer of power to lights, appliances, machinery and equipment. In fact, the electricity to run our homes, schools, hospitals and the rest of our world would be difficult to control without power distribution cabinet.

Control cabinets, conversely, work as the brains of an electrical system, controlling the operations of equipment and machines. They convert signals received from sensors, switches, or other devices into motor or motion control for equipment including motors, pumps, and conveyor belts. Control panels are essential components to automate processes and control heavy machinery, but its major applications are in industries & buildings.

Distribution vs Control

To conclude, distribution cabinets act like power suppliers that make certain electricity is maintained safely and is distributed well around different sites. Meanwhile, control cabinets, play supervisory roles, oversee the performance of electrical appliances. Both kinds of cabinets are indispensable to ensure that the electrical systems are safe and reliable in a wide range of applications.