In the electrical context, the full form of LDB is Lighting Distribution Board.
Understanding the Lighting Distribution Board (LDB)
A Lighting Distribution Board, often referred to as an LDB Panel, is a critical component in electrical systems, specifically designed for the safe and efficient distribution of power to various lighting circuits within a building or facility. It serves as a centralized hub where the main power supply for lighting is received and then split into multiple outgoing feeders, each protecting a specific lighting load or group of loads.
According to the reference, a Lighting Distribution Board (LDB Panel) is typically comprised of:
- A free-standing enclosure
- A bus bar system
- MCCB's (Moulded Case Circuit Breakers)
- Metering and support equipment's
- Required current transformers
These components work together to ensure that power is delivered reliably to lighting fixtures while providing necessary protection against overloads and short circuits.
Key Components of an LDB Panel
An LDB panel is constructed using several essential parts that facilitate its function:
- Enclosure: Provides physical protection for the internal components from the environment and prevents accidental contact with live parts. Often free-standing for larger installations.
- Bus Bar System: Conductors (usually copper or aluminum) that distribute power within the panel from the incomer to the outgoing circuit breakers.
- MCCBs (Moulded Case Circuit Breakers): Protective devices used for both switching and protecting circuits from overcurrents. They are commonly used as incomers or for larger outgoing feeders in LDBs. (Note: Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) are often used for individual lighting circuit protection downstream).
- Metering and Support Equipment: Includes devices for measuring electrical parameters like voltage and current, along with necessary supports and wiring accessories.
- Current Transformers (CTs): Used in conjunction with metering equipment to measure large currents accurately and safely.
Panel Structure
Panels like LDBs are generally assembled in a systematic manner. As highlighted in the reference, they are typically structured into distinct sections:
- Incomer Section: Where the main power cable enters the panel and connects to the primary protective device (like an MCCB) and the bus bar system.
- Outgoing Section: Where the various outgoing feeders for different lighting circuits are connected to the bus bars via protective devices (MCBs or smaller MCCBs).
This modular structure allows for organized wiring, easier maintenance, and clear separation of power paths.
Purpose and Application
The primary purpose of an LDB is to centralize the control and protection of lighting circuits. Instead of running separate main cables to every lighting point, the main feed goes to the LDB, and smaller cables branch out from there to different areas or types of lighting (e.g., general lighting, emergency lighting, exterior lighting).
LDBs are commonly found in:
- Commercial buildings (offices, retail spaces)
- Industrial facilities (factories, warehouses)
- Public buildings (schools, hospitals)
- Large residential complexes
They provide a safe, efficient, and organized way to manage the power supply for all lighting requirements within a structure.
Summary of LDB Panel Aspects
Here is a quick overview of the key aspects of an LDB Panel:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Lighting Distribution Board |
| Function | Distributes electrical power to lighting circuits |
| Location | Centralized point for lighting power management |
| Key Parts | Enclosure, Bus Bars, MCCBs, Metering, CTs, Protection Devices |
| Structure | Incomer and Outgoing Sections |
By centralizing lighting control and protection, LDBs contribute significantly to the safety and reliability of electrical installations.
