TV studio electrical distribution panels for testing and production
30/08/2024
Overview
This case study examines two different electrical distribution panels designed for specific indoor applications. The first panel is used for testing and maintenance of equipment, while the second is intended for supplying power to a new studio area for filming television shows for major networks, including the BBC and Netflix. Understanding the specifications and functionality of these panels is crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability in their respective environments.
Panel 1: Testing and Maintenance Panel
Purpose and Usage
The first panel is designed for indoor use, specifically for testing and maintenance of stock equipment. This setup allows technicians to power various devices and perform diagnostics, repairs, and routine checks in a controlled environment without disrupting the main power supply or operations elsewhere.
Specifications
o Design: The panel is wall-mounted and rated IP55, providing protection against dust and water jets, suitable for indoor environments where moderate exposure to dust and moisture might occur. It is coated with polyester powder in RAL9005 black semi-gloss, offering durability and a professional appearance.
o Incoming Power: It receives power through a 400V 63A 3PN+E IP67 appliance inlet, which is robust enough for indoor use and designed to withstand frequent connections and disconnections.
Outgoing Circuits:
o 1 x 230V 32A 2P+E IP44 Socket: Protected by a 32A 30mA RCBO Type A with a C tripping curve, suitable for handling moderate inductive loads such as motors or transformers.
o 6 x 230V 16A 2P+E IP44 Sockets: Each socket has its own 16A 30mA RCBO Type A with a C tripping curve, ensuring individual circuit protection and reducing the risk of electrical faults.
o 1 x Socapex Connector: Includes tripping for six 16A 30mA RCBO Type A circuits with a C tripping curve, often used for connecting multiple circuits in professional audio and lighting setups, allowing flexible power distribution.
Key Features
This panel is tailored for versatility, providing multiple outlets with individual protection via RCBO devices. The Type A RCBOs are sensitive to both AC and pulsating DC currents, enhancing safety by mitigating risks of electrical shock and equipment damage during testing and maintenance.
Panel 2: Studio Supply Panel
Purpose and Usage
The second panel is specifically designed for indoor use in a studio environment where filming for high-profile TV productions occurs. This panel must support various high-power equipment, lighting rigs, and other studio gear, ensuring continuous, stable, and safe power delivery throughout production activities.
Specifications
o Design: This panel is also wall-mounted with an IP55 rating, providing protection against dust and low-pressure water jets. It is finished with a polyester powder coating in RAL9005 black semi-gloss, suitable for indoor studio environments where durability and aesthetics are important.
o Incoming Power: The panel is equipped with a 400A 4-pole Moulded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB) with a VT/VS key-switchable Residual Current Device (RCD) and a multifunction meter. This configuration provides high current capacity and allows for comprehensive monitoring and protection.
Outgoing Circuits:
o 1 Set of 5 400A Powerlocks: Direct connection from the incoming MCCB, allowing for high-current power distribution to large studio setups or sub-panels.
o 1 x 400V 125A 3PN+E IP67 Socket: Comes with a 125A 4-pole Type C MCB and a VT/VS key-switchable RCD, supporting high-power equipment.
o 2 x 400V 63A 3PN+E IP67 Sockets: Each socket is protected by a 63A 4-pole Type C MCB and a VT/VS key-switchable RCD, suitable for moderately high-power applications.
o 2 x 400V 32A 3PN+E IP44 Sockets: Each protected by a 32A 30mA 4-pole RCBO Type A with a C tripping curve, ideal for powering smaller three-phase equipment.
o 3 x 230V 32A 2P+E IP44 Sockets: Each fitted with a 32A 30mA 2-pole RCBO Type A with a C tripping curve, providing flexibility for single-phase loads.
o 6 x Socapex Connectors: Each protected by six 16A single-pole Type C MCBs, designed for multiple lighting circuits or specialized equipment common in studio settings.
Key Features
The studio supply panel is built to handle a high-power demand with extensive distribution options. The 400A MCCB provides the main protection and disconnection point, while the VT/VS key-switchable RCDs enhance safety by allowing selective de-energization and protection against ground faults. This panel can accommodate a broad range of studio equipment, ensuring both performance and safety for high-stakes production environments.
Comparison and Conclusion
Both panels are designed for indoor use, with the first panel focusing on equipment testing and maintenance and the second tailored for studio operations. Despite their different applications, both panels maintain high safety standards with IP55 ratings and Type A RCBOs. However, the studio panel is engineered for higher capacity and versatility, supporting a wide range of high-demand equipment and providing comprehensive power distribution solutions for a dynamic studio environment.
By selecting the appropriate panel for each specific indoor application, the facility ensures efficient and safe operations, whether for routine equipment testing or complex television production.
Capable of producing these and a variety of bespoke panels from design to completion at our head office, KES Power and Light Ltd can meet even the most demanding electrical distribution solutions. Whether that be enclosed in sheet steel as with this example to thermoplastic, rubber and polypropylene as wall mountable and free standing. If durability / portability is an issue, we can mount in either crash frames or flight cases. Get in touch and find out how we can help you find the right solution!
