The circuit configuration of the distribution box is directly related to the rationality and safety of power distribution, and it is particularly important to optimize it according to the load characteristics.
First, clarifying the load type is the basis. For lighting loads, the power is relatively small and the operation is relatively stable. Multiple lighting fixtures can be concentrated in one or several circuits. For example, the lighting fixtures of an office can be divided into one or two circuits, and the current carried by each circuit is within the design capacity of the distribution box. This can effectively reduce the number of circuits and reduce costs.
Secondly, consider the power load. Power equipment such as motors have a large starting current and need to set up a separate circuit. Motors of different powers should be configured with appropriate circuit breakers and wires according to their rated current and starting current multiples. For example, high-power motors in large industrial workshops should use circuit breakers with large rated currents and overload and short-circuit protection functions. The wire cross-section should also be large enough to meet the high current requirements at startup to prevent overheating of the line and excessive voltage drop.
For inductive loads, such as air conditioners, refrigerators and other equipment containing compressors, they will generate high reactive currents at startup, affecting the power factor of the power grid. For this type of load, you can consider adding reactive compensation devices or selecting equipment with power factor correction function in the circuit. At the same time, you should also configure a separate circuit for it to avoid interference with other loads.
Intermittent loads, such as welding machines, have discontinuous working time and large current fluctuations. For this type of load, the wires and switches in the circuit should be able to withstand its maximum pulse current, and the heating situation when it works for a long time should be considered. A special welding machine circuit can be set up, and the derating factor can be used to select the wire cross-section and switch rated current to ensure safe operation under intermittent high current impact.
For important loads with high requirements for power supply reliability, such as server equipment in data centers and life support systems in hospitals, dual-circuit power supply or even redundant power supply configuration should be adopted. The two circuits come from different transformers or mains and backup power supplies. When one power supply fails, the other can switch seamlessly to ensure the continuous operation of the load.
In addition, the scalability of future loads should also be considered. When configuring the distribution box circuit, reserve a certain number of backup circuits so that there is no need to modify the distribution box on a large scale when adding new loads. For example, in the design of distribution boxes in commercial buildings, it is reasonable to reserve 20% - 30% of spare circuits, considering that new stores may be settled or equipment may be added.
Finally, in the process of optimizing the distribution box circuit configuration, it is necessary to strictly follow the relevant electrical design specifications and standards, and make accurate calculations and reasonable layouts based on the actual load characteristics to ensure that the distribution box can efficiently and safely allocate power resources, meet the power needs of different loads, and ensure the stable operation of the entire electrical system.
