Inside Services - Marine Electrical Panels and Switchboards

Over the last few decades, electrical systems on yachts and sport fish boats have become highly advanced and modernized. While basic switch panels are suitable for electrical distribution on smaller boats, yachts require a more sophisticated power distribution center. That is the purpose of a custom marine switchboard. Marine switchboards act is the brain and nerve center for large boats. They take the main power generated from the vessel’s engines and generators and distribute it safely and efficiently throughout the boat, ensuring that all devices onboard have the power they need to operate reliably. They also play a key role in the yacht’s emergency power system, ensuring that vital electrical components such as navigation lights and communication devices can still operate in the event of a power outage.

Generally speaking, boat electrical systems should be updated if they are over 20 years old. Electrical systems in yachts are exposed to a much harsher environment than your home or office building due to the constant movement and exposure to saltwater corrosion. In terms of electrical panels, a well-built distribution system can last a long time. However, as you add more and more electrical components to your yacht over time, that distribution panel should be upgraded to support the additional power load. If your unsure whether you should update your boat’s electrical panel or opt for a custom marine switchboard, consider getting a marine survey done. A knowledgeable surveyor can assess the entire electrical system on your yacht and identify any potential problems that should be addressed.

Custom marine distribution panels and switchboards are typically needed for larger boats that operate on both A/C and D/C power. This includes sport fish boats, yachts, ships, and naval vessels. If a boat has a generator, then it will typically need some sort of switchboard to  handle the power distribution. If a yacht has an emergency power system, then it will often have an emergency switchboard. Also, any boat that has recently installed additional electrical components may need an upgraded custom electrical panel. A marine surveyor will be able  to help you determine if an upgraded or custom electrical panel is  needed on your boat if your are unsure.

Marine switchboard automation involves the automated control of specific electrical functions on large vessels. It encompasses various types of automation that offer benefits to the owners and operators of sizable boats, including generator automation. Many large vessels are outfitted with two generators to meet the vessel's load. Through generator automation, a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) can be implemented to distribute the power load between the two generators, especially when one approaches full capacity. In the event that the electrical demand on board exceeds the capacity of one generator, the switchboard can detect this and activate the second generator, thus preventing overloading of the primary generator. Seamless transition to shore power is also facilitated through shore power automation. This feature enables a vessel to promptly and seamlessly switch to grid power without the need to power down or disrupt the vessel. Upon connecting the shore power cable, the vessel will automatically engage the shore power circuit while simultaneously deactivating the generator, ensuring uninterrupted service to the onboard electronics. Moreover, blackout recovery is another crucial function offered by switchboard automation. In instances where shore power from the grid is unreliable, the switchboard can automatically engage the generator when a power interruption or low voltage is detected. This ensures uninterrupted power supply onboard the vessel. Once grid power is restored, the switchboard automation will recognize this, deactivate the generator, and seamlessly switch back to shore power.

Our team of marine electrical engineers is capable of designing and constructing custom marine electrical panels and delivering them to any location, including international destinations. The pre-wired panels are ready for installation upon arrival. In need of assistance with the installation of a custom switchboard on your vessel? Our experienced marine technicians can be dispatched to install the custom switchboard at the location of your choosing. This level of service has contributed to Ward's reputation as one of the most reputable marine electric companies. Contact us today via phone or by completing our online form to learn more about our capabilities.