In modern industrial and commercial electrical systems, electrical control panels serve as the command centers. However, not all panels are built the same. From PCC and MCC panels to PLC-based systems, each has a unique role in controlling, monitoring, and safeguarding electrical operations.
This guide breaks down the different types of control panels, what they do, where they’re used, and how to select the right one for your needs.
1. What Are Electrical Control Panels?
An electrical control panel is a centralized unit that houses equipment to manage electricity distribution and control electrical devices. These panels are used in industries, commercial buildings, data centers, and manufacturing units to automate processes and protect electrical equipment.
Inside a typical electrical panel, you’ll find components like:
- Circuit breakers
- Contactors and relays
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
- Power meters and protection relays
2. Main Types of Electrical Control Panels
A. Power Control Center (PCC) Panel
PCC panels are the backbone of industrial power distribution. They control the flow of electricity from the main power supply to different loads within a facility.
Key features:
- Typically used for managing high-voltage incoming supply (up to 6300A)
- Includes ACBs, MCCBs, metering systems
- Located near transformers or main switchboards
Common in: Cement plants, power stations, heavy industries
B. Motor Control Center (MCC) Panel
MCC panels are designed specifically to control multiple motors from a central location.
Key features:
- Houses motor starters, overload relays, and isolators
- May include variable frequency drives (VFDs)
- Offers remote and manual motor control options
Used in: Factories, pump stations, conveyor belts, HVAC systems
C. Automation Panel (PLC / SCADA Panels)
PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or SCADA-based panels are intelligent systems used for automation and real-time monitoring.
Key features:
- Enables programmable sequences for machines/processes
- Integrates with sensors, actuators, HMIs
- Supports remote monitoring and analytics
Common in: Process industries, water treatment plants, packaging industries
D. APFC Panels (Automatic Power Factor Control)
APFC panels help improve power factor and optimize energy efficiency.
Key features:
- Uses capacitor banks and controllers
- Reduces electricity bills and penalties
- Enhances load management
Used in: Commercial buildings, malls, factories
E. Distribution Panels
These panels distribute power to various electrical loads in a building or industrial facility.
Key features:
- Typically used at the floor or department level
- Contains circuit breakers, isolators, and safety relays
Used in: Offices, warehouses, production floors
3. Special-Purpose Control Panels
There are also many custom electrical control panels tailored to specific industries:
- Fire Pump Panels – For emergency pump control
- VFD Panels – For speed control of motors
- RTU Panels – For telemetry applications
- Synchronizing Panels – To manage multiple power sources like DG sets and mains
4. Comparing Key Types at a Glance
| Type | Main Function | Ideal For |
| PCC | Power distribution | Heavy industries |
| MCC | Motor control | Manufacturing, HVAC |
| PLC | Automation & control | Processing industries |
| APFC | Power factor correction | Commercial & industrial |
| Distribution | Sub-panel distribution | Offices, shops, small industries |
5. How to Choose the Right Control Panel
To select the right electrical control panel, consider:
- Load Type & Size: Motor vs lighting vs automation
- Process Requirements: Need for automation or remote access
- Energy Efficiency Goals: Use APFC or VFDs where applicable
- Safety & Compliance: Ensure adherence to IS/IEC standards
- Scalability: Modular designs for future expansion
Consult a trusted electrical partner for design, manufacturing, and integration tailored to your operations.
Conclusion (For Balaji)
Not all electrical control panels are the same, and understanding their roles is crucial for system efficiency and safety. From PCC panels that handle large-scale power distribution to smart PLC-based automation panels, each type has a place in modern electrical infrastructure.
At Balaji Switchgears, we specialize in designing, assembling, and commissioning all types of control panels—customized to meet your industrial needs with reliability, safety, and scalability at the core.