UL 508A Industrial Electrical Panels

What are Electrical Control Panels?

The National Electrical Code (NEC) Section 409.2 defines industrial electrical panels as an assembly of two or more control or power circuit components, or a combination of both. Typically, these components may include transformers, contactors, switches, terminal blocks, motor drives, and overcurrent protective devices.
Like most types of industrial equipment, electrical panels can either be open or enclosed. Open-type industrial electrical panels are installed in an enclosure before use while enclosed panels can be rated for indoor applications or any type rating. Enclosed variations can also be certified for use in classified points, including hazardous areas.

The Advantages of UL-Listed Electrical Panels 

Industrial electrical panels that are UL-listed are certified by both the National Electric Code (NEC) and the Canadian Electric Code (CEC). UL is the global leader in ICP certification and has close relationships with AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction). Essentially, the UL mark proves that the electrical control panel has met North American safety standards and simplifies compliance with AHJs.

A UL-listed panel is one that meets environmental ratings, has the necessary safety markings, and was designed with motor and wiring protection. Relying on a control panel shop without a UL 508A certification can lead to unsafe equipment and working conditions and a lack of UL safety marks on your electrical panels can increase the risk of costly failures and shutdowns.

JHFOSTER is a leading distributor of electrical equipment designed for a wide range of applications and industries. Browse our high-quality electrical control panels, gearboxes, and safety solutions today.

Other Recommended Products and Solutions

Access the links below to learn about our range of products that support a variety of industrial applications. We offer everything from actuators and servo reducers to holistic safety solutions for your project.

Literature Library

Looking for additional information? Check out JHFOSTER’s Automation Library.

Our Electrical Control Panel knowledge extends to areas like:

  • PLC
  • HMI 
  • Radio & telemetry
  • Servo/stepper drives 
  • Electrical actuators 
  • Network communication devices
  • Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) 
  • Pressure transmitters 
  • Electronic proportional air regulators 
  • Encoders 
  • Sensors 
  • Temperature controllers 
  • Safety components

What Will an Electrical Breaker Panel Do for Your Business?

Electrical control panels provide the exact benefit that their name implies: they are panels that control mechanical processes electrically. These pieces of equipment help you move from inefficiency to streamlined efficiency to help you save on costs. Electrical control panels simplify production to ensure quality materials and accurate machining, as well as increase production, ensure safety, and improve efficiency and reliability. They can even keep existing equipment operating with reduced breakdowns.

In What Industries Can Panels Improve Safety?

Nearly every industry can benefit from industrial electrical panels. However, the most common industry control panels are used in is manufacturing. Here are a few common applications where electrical control panels have been known to keep people safe:

  • Filling
  • Food
  • Material handling
  • Product testing
  • Compressor controls
  • Pneumatic circuit controls
  • Motor controls
  • Relay panels
  • Timeclock/timer based control

Additional Resources

Download our PDF to learn more about our Panel shop and what we can design for you.

Check out our Podcast on Electric Control Panels.

Read our Case Study that shares challenges and solutions.

For more information on electronic control panels, contact us to discuss your industrial electrical panel needs, or set up an appointment to visit our UL 508A control panel shop in Eagan, Minnesota.

JHFOSTER distributes these products shown as well as evaluates, designs, engineers, integrates and services the entire system.

TECHNOLOGY

Motion & Mechatronics

  • Rotary/Linear Motion
  • Sizing/Consultation
  • Motors/Drives/Control
  • Robots
  • Conveyors

Sensors & ID

  • Presence
  • Inductive/Capacitive
  • RFID/Bar Code
  • Safety

Data

  1. Networks (LAN/WAN)
  2. HMI/Web Panel
  3. Remote Access/Monitor

PRECISION MACHINING

  • Horizontal Millin – 5 axis
  • Vertical Milling = 5 axis
  • Turning (up to 14″)
  • Swiss Turning (approximately 3 – 20 mm)
  • CAD Solidworks
  • Gibbs & Surfcam

ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ASSEMBLY

  • UL508A Certified Panel Shop
  • Control Panel Build
  • Enclosures
  • Value Added Sub Assemblies: Pneumatic, Mechanical, Electrical, Build to Print
  • Horizontal Millin – 5 axis
  • Vertical Milling = 5 axis
  • Turning (up to 14″)
  • Swiss Turning (approvximately 3 – 20 mm)
  • CAD Solidworks
  • Gibbs & Surfcam

Frequently Asked Questions

We help with the entire design and manufacturing process. From assisting with project layout and selection of components to building the panel with UL 508A & NEC specifications in mind. We also provide wiring installation assistance and onsite startup and training.

At JHFOSTER, we have a highly trained team of control engineers with decades of combined experience in hardware, software, and design/build projects

We create an average of 60 electrical control panels monthly and work closely with our clients from start to finish. Our engineers can help with both high and low custom volume requirements.

Request More Information

Contact us today at 855.688.0065 or email us and one of our certified technicians can walk you through which electrical control panel is right for your specific application.
Need more information about a specific product or supplier? Get literature from a JHFOSTER representative to learn more.