Miniature switchboards: A modernization in the design of operating switchboards for electric power stations and substations

This paper points out the general progress made in the design of electric power systems and contrasts with it the lack of progress in the field of control switchboards. It is shown that due to this lack of progress, a situation confronts many systems today where switchboards are so large that excessive amounts of space are necessary for their housing and further expenditures are later necessary in order to integrate these large switchboards so as to bring them within proper supervisory control of a limited number of operators. A development in miniature switchboards is described, embracing and containing all the fundamental requirements of a control switchboard and yet with no greater space than 4 in. of panel width for complete control and supervision of one feeder. A description of the instrument, control switches, and auxiliary relays, is given as well as the method in which all these elements have been assembled. Reproduction of drawings and photographs are given of actual installations along the lines described, showing the possibility of developing a switchboard that will handle 60 feeders and yet bring it within the range and operating control of a single operator, are given. The advantages of the new development are, as brought out: Compactness, ease of operation, closer supervision, ease of erection, good appearance, and modernity.