Name: ABB Custom Engineered Panel
Brand: ABB

Question 1

Which ABB product families are typically used in a custom engineered IEC 61439 panel?

Accepted Answer

Custom ABB panels commonly combine the MNS motor control center (type-tested per IEC 61439-2) for withdrawable MCC units, ArTu distribution boards (IEC 61439-1) for fixed switchgear and distribution, Tmax XT and Emax 2 breakers (IEC 60947-2) for branch and incomer protection, AF contactors and soft starters (IEC 60947-4) for motor control, and Relion protection relays for advanced protection and communications (IEC 61850/Modbus options). These families enable mixed fixed/withdrawable architectures, coordinated protection, and modular upgrades while retaining IEC conformity documentation.

Question 2

Can ABB MNS-based custom panels be designed for hazardous (ATEX/IECEx) areas?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ABB MNS cabinets and associated devices can be adapted for hazardous area installations by applying certified Ex components, appropriate purge and pressurization or encapsulation methods, and documentation complying with IEC 60079 series (ex: IEC 60079-0, -1, -2). Project scope typically defines whether zone separation, Ex d enclosures, or remote annunciation is required. The engineering deliverable will include certification evidence, cable gland selections, and installation instructions aligned with ATEX/IECEx requirements.

Question 3

What forms of separation are achievable in ABB custom engineered panels and what does Form 4b provide?

Accepted Answer

ABB custom panels are engineered to Form 1 through Form 4b per IEC 61439-1. Form 4b provides the highest separation level commonly used in LV switchgear: functional units (withdrawable or fixed) are separated from each other, from the busbar, and from auxiliary circuits, reducing risk during maintenance. In MNS implementations, Form 4b is realized via compartmentalized withdrawable units with separate bus compartments and dedicated wiring ducts, facilitating safe racking and reduced fault propagation.

Question 4

What short-circuit ratings can ABB custom engineered panels achieve and how are they verified?

Accepted Answer

Short-circuit ratings are project-specific and engineered based on utility prospective fault levels; common design targets are 50 kA to 100 kA rms symmetrical, but higher ratings are possible with appropriate busbar sizing and component selection. Verification is done through calculation (IEC 61439-1 clause 8 and annexes), component short-circuit data (e.g., Tmax XT, Emax 2 test reports per IEC 60947-2), and where required, type tests or manufacturer test certificates demonstrating assembly withstand and making capacities. Final ratings are documented in the panel’s technical dossier.

Question 5

How are Tmax XT and Emax 2 breakers coordinated in ABB custom panels for selective protection?

Accepted Answer

Coordination between Tmax XT (MCCB) and Emax 2 (air circuit breaker) is achieved through time-current curve selection, short-circuit interrupting ratings, and protective relay settings. Engineers perform short-circuit studies and select upstream/downstream devices so that breaking capacities, instantaneous settings and long-time curves ensure selectivity per IEC 60947-2 and IEC 61439 coordination principles. Communication-enabled Emax 2 can also integrate with Relion relays for advanced selective tripping and remote diagnostics.

Question 6

What environmental/IP and marine options are available for ABB custom panels?

Accepted Answer

ABB custom panels can be built to IP20 up to IP66 depending on enclosure design and gasket specifications; IP65 front panels and IP66 fully-sealed enclosures are common for washdown or outdoor use. For marine applications, panels receive surface treatments (e.g., epoxy coatings, stainless-steel options), cable fittings for vibration and EMC, and compliance checks against relevant standards (e.g., DNV/ABS when requested). Hazardous area and ingress protection choices are specified per project and validated in factory acceptance testing.

Question 7

What IEC documentation and testing are supplied with an ABB custom engineered IEC 61439 panel?

Accepted Answer

Deliverables typically include the IEC 61439 type or design verification report (covering dielectric, temperature-rise, short-circuit, and mechanical tests where applicable), factory test reports (routine wiring continuity, insulation resistance, and functional tests), single-line diagrams, cable schedules, component certificates (Tmax/Emax/MNS test data), and protective device settings. For MCC designs, MNS type-test files and routine test evidence are appended to the panel technical dossier to support client QA and commissioning.

Question 8

How do I start an EPC project requiring ABB custom engineered panels and what information is needed for a quote?

Accepted Answer

To begin, provide single-line diagrams, required rated currents (In), prospective fault levels at incomer points, system voltage (up to 1000 V AC), desired form of separation (e.g., Form 4b), IP/environmental class, hazardous area classification if applicable, required communications/relay types, and any mechanical or HMI constraints. With that data, engineering teams perform short-circuit and coordination studies, propose device selections (MNS, Tmax XT, Emax 2, AF contactors), and deliver a scope, lead times and a firm quote. Contact our engineering team to initiate site-specific design and a factory acceptance test plan.

Rated Current (InA)	Project-specific
Short-Circuit Rating	Project-specific
Rated Voltage	Up to 1000V AC
Form of Separation	Form 1–4b
IP Protection	IP20–IP66
IEC Standard	IEC 61439-1/2
Component Brand	ABB

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