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Non-Form Protected Panel |
Form 4B Panel (Fully Segregated) |
| DESCRIPTION |
All components (switches, busbars, cables) are located in the same compartment; there is no physical separation. |
Each functional unit, busbars, and cable connections are located in separate compartments. All live parts are physically isolated. |
| SAFETY LEVEL |
Low – During a fault or maintenance, personnel are at risk of electric shock or short circuit. |
High – Live parts are inaccessible; other circuits continue to operate during maintenance. |
| FAULT ISOLATION |
None – A fault may affect the entire system. |
Available – A fault is confined to the relevant compartment, while the rest of the system continues to operate. |
| USER SAFETY |
Typically low IP protection (below IP20) |
Compartment-Based High Protection Level:(IP2X–IP4X) |
| SHORT-CIRCUIT RISK |
High – Since busbars and functional units are in the same compartment, an arc fault can spread to other circuits. |
Minimum – Arc faults are limited by metal/plastic barriers between compartments. |
| CABLE ARRANGEMENT AND SERVICE EASE |
Confused – Cable and busbar paths are intertwined. |
Organized – Each compartment’s wiring is independent. |
| COMPLIANCE WITH OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY REGULATIONS |
Partially or not compliant with IEC 61439. |
Fully compliant with IEC 61439-1 and 61439-2; type-tested. |
| SUITABILITY FOR INDUSTRIAL USE |
Typically chosen only for low-cost, small facilities. Fully compliant with IEC 61439-1 and 61439-2; type-tested. |
Ideal for medium and large-scale industrial facilities (power, cement, automotive, petrochemical, etc.). |