In an ordinary panel, working on one faulty feeder often means switching off the whole board. In many plants that is simply not acceptable. A draw out panel solves this by mounting each feeder on a trolley or module that can be pulled out of the cabinet while the rest keeps running.
How draw out modules work
Every module has a set of contacts that connect to the busbar and to the outgoing cables. When you rack the module out, these contacts separate safely, and a shutter usually closes over the live parts. There are usually three positions, connected, test and isolated, which let you check the feeder without energising the power side.
Interlocks are the safety heart of the design. They stop you from opening the door with the breaker on, or from inserting a module in the wrong state. We build these with care, because a badly made interlock is worse than none. Clear labels on each module also help operators avoid mistakes.
Removable modules
Feeders can be racked out without shutting down the panel.
Three positions
Connected, test and isolated positions for safe checks.
Shutters
Cover live parts when a module is withdrawn.
Mechanical interlocks
Prevent door opening or module movement in unsafe states.
Spare module option
Swap a faulty feeder quickly.
Clear marking
Module labels reduce the risk of mistakes.
Interlocks, positions and when to choose this design
Draw out panels cost more than fixed type, and it is fair to ask if you need one. If your process cannot stop, or if a spare module lets you swap a faulty one within minutes, the answer is often yes. If shutdowns are easy to arrange, a fixed type may be enough, and we will say so.
Send us the feeder list with ratings and your preferred configuration. We will propose module sizes and a panel layout. Every draw out panel is tested for smooth module movement and interlock function at our Greater Noida workshop before it ships.
Where it is commonly used
Before you place an order
Draw out designs cost more, so it is worth thinking about where they add value. Not every feeder needs a withdrawable module. Sometimes a mix works well, with fixed type for non-critical loads and draw out for the important ones. We can help you choose which feeders deserve it.
Training also matters. Operators should know how to rack a module in and out, and what each position means. We can go through this with your team at handover. A well-designed interlock protects people, but only if they understand and respect it.