ReliaGear® Switchboards

An electrical switchboard is the central point where incoming power is distributed throughout a facility. It safely routes electricity from a main source across multiple circuits, using breakers and control components to protect connected equipment from faults or overloads.

The main differences come down to scale and application. Switchboards are used to centrally distribute and manage large amounts of power across commercial and industrial facilities, whereas panelboards serve smaller downstream circuits. Switchgear, on the other hand, is used for significantly higher-voltage, heavy-duty systems, such as those found in power plants or substations, and includes more advanced protection and controls.

As a result, there are also important technical and compliance differences. Switchboards and panelboards are typically built to UL and CSA standards with more flexible, group-mounted configurations, whereas switchgear follows different standards, has stricter code requirements, a larger physical construction, and is tested to withstand higher fault conditions.

Wherever you need to bring power into a site - whether it’s a plant, building, data center, or utility - ABB ReliaGear® switchboards help you do it safely while protecting your equipment.

A brand you can trust for safe and smart operations. With the ReliaGear® switchboards, safety is further improved, supported by a modular plug-in design that simplifies setup and maintenance, along with advanced circuit breaker technology for improved performance and control.

Yes. ReliaGear® switchboards are designed and tested to meet Canadian electrical standards, including CSA requirements for low-voltage electrical distribution equipment. CSA C22.2 No. 244 and UL 891 are harmonized standards, following similar technical requirements, testing methods, and performance criteria. ReliaGear® switchboards are cUL labelled and thoroughly checked and inspected to ensure compliance.

Detailed certification information can be found on the relevant product pages.

These standards apply to different types of equipment. CSA C22.2 No. 244 specifically covers switchboards rated up to 1,000V and is the appropriate standard for switchboard applications, whereas CSA C22.2 No. 31 applies to switchgear assemblies up to 46kV. If you have any doubts or questions about the appropriate standards to use, reach out to ABB and we’ll happily guide you through the process.