Distribution Boards and Protection Devices

A construction site electrical board receives power from the supply line and distributes it to the sockets and machines, housing the circuit breakers that protect each circuit. It is used to supply power to several crews in an orderly way: if one circuit trips, the others stay powered. In boards with several outlets each line is separated from the others, so a fault does not stop the whole site.

Low-voltage electrical boards must be built to standard CEI EN 61439, which sets out the requirements for the design, construction and testing of boards. The installation they are connected to must comply with CEI 64-8. On construction sites the board also falls under the obligations of Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008 on workplace safety, which cover equipment and installations. Always ask the supplier for the board's conformity documentation.

The IP rating indicates how well the board or socket resists dust and water, as set out in standard CEI EN 60529. IP44 is suited to environments with water splashes, IP55 to places with water jets and dust, while IP67 also protects against temporary immersion. For outdoors or wet environments choose the rating suited to the location, such as the IP67 of the 4-socket boards, and always check the manufacturer's data sheet.

A starter controls and protects a motor, for example that of a pump, with push-buttons or a switch and a thermal protection. A board with sockets, on the other hand, distributes power to several loads. Starters in the Friggeri range are chosen according to voltage, 230 V or 400 V, rated current and plug type, and must be matched to the power of the motor they have to protect.

The isolating transformer electrically separates the load circuit from the mains, reducing the risk of electric shock when working with portable tools in conductive environments. It must be chosen according to its rated power, which on the catalogue models is shown in the code, by adding up the loads you need to power and allowing a margin. Install it in a dry, ventilated place, away from liquids and dust.

Yes. The frame of the board must be connected to the earthing system according to the design and standard CEI 64-8. Without an effective earth, residual current devices cannot protect people from an earth fault. Before putting the board into service, have the earth connection and the continuity of the protective conductors checked by a qualified technician.

A thermal-magnetic circuit breaker with remote control lets you see the status of the circuit and open or close it from a smartphone, but it does not replace the protections required by the design. Check that the device is compatible with the board and the local network, and have it installed by an electrician. Even with Wi-Fi control, work on the board must be carried out with the system de-energised.