Custom-built electrical panels are distribution, protection or control assemblies configured for the requirements of a particular installation. Their specification brings together circuits, power supply, enclosure, connections and operating conditions. Solera designs and assembles low-voltage assemblies for residential, commercial and industrial applications, as well as construction sites, swimming pools, photovoltaic installations and electric vehicle charging.
Choosing a special assembly involves more than stating how many modules an enclosure should accommodate. You need to understand what the panel will supply, where it will be installed, how it will be used and what the scope of supply should include. This guide explains how to approach those decisions and which information to gather before contacting Solera’s special electrical assemblies department.
What manufacturing a custom-built electrical panel means
With a custom-built panel, the configuration starts with the project requirements. The number and purpose of circuits may need to be adapted, different outputs combined, a particular enclosure selected or switching and control functions integrated. Customisation concerns the complete assembly and the relationship between its components.
This does not mean that every part must be exclusive or manufactured from scratch. A special assembly can integrate catalogue components and enclosures into a specific configuration. What is defined for the project is how they are selected, arranged and connected, together with the performance required of the finished assembly.
It is therefore important to describe the requirement through information and functions. Expressions such as “a complete panel”, “an outdoor box” or “an industrial assembly” can start a discussion, but they leave decisions open that affect the proposal, the space required and subsequent operation.
When to consider a special electrical assembly
A custom-built assembly makes sense when an existing configuration does not meet the installation requirements. Before specifying a bespoke solution, review the available options: if a catalogue reference already fulfils the required function, it may be a suitable choice.
The need for a special solution often arises when several constraints must be addressed together. Examples include limited space, an unusual arrangement of outputs, circuits with different functions or a location that influences the enclosure material and protection requirements.
- A specific circuit configuration. The project needs to group lines, socket outlets or equipment that do not match a catalogue configuration.
- A restricted installation location. Available dimensions, access or cable routes limit how the assembly can be arranged.
- An application requiring control functions. In addition to distribution and protection, you need to specify how equipment will be operated or managed.
- An installation expected to expand. The necessary spare space and opportunities for future additions should be considered.
The decision must be based on the planned installation. A custom-built assembly is not better simply because it contains more devices: it adds value when it addresses requirements that an existing configuration cannot meet.
Empty enclosure, catalogue-built panel or custom-built panel: the differences
Empty enclosure or box
An enclosure is the housing intended to contain electrical equipment. Selecting it allows you to define aspects such as format, dimensions, mounting method and the protection characteristics declared for the particular reference.
Buying an empty enclosure does not mean receiving a finished electrical panel. Device selection, arrangement, wiring and verification of the assembly are subsequent tasks. This option is considered when the professional will carry out or manage that integration.
Catalogue-built panel
A catalogue-built panel offers a configuration defined for a particular product reference. You can check which equipment is included and assess whether it matches the project without starting with a new combination of components.
That check must be based on the datasheet and documentation for the reference concerned. The word “assembled” does not establish that every accessory, connection or function is included. Confirm the scope of supply and which tasks will remain for the final installation.
Custom-built electrical panel
A custom-built panel is studied for a specific requirement. Its configuration may use catalogue products, but the complete assembly is defined according to the application, circuits and conditions agreed for the project.
Before approving the proposal, make sure the equipment, connections, wiring scope and requested documentation are clear. This allows alternatives to be compared against the same requirement and avoids treating assemblies with different contents as equivalent.
What to define before selecting components
Application, power supply and equipment served by the panel
The starting point is to identify what the panel will do: distribute power between circuits, supply socket outlets, protect equipment or integrate control functions. Several requirements may coexist in one installation, and it is useful to distinguish them from the initial enquiry.
Available supply information and equipment characteristics must also be provided. Specifying only the total power may leave questions unresolved, including distribution between circuits, single-phase or three-phase supply and the particular requirements of individual loads.
If diagrams, drawings or specifications exist, include them. Where they have not yet been defined, describe the intended use and identify the missing information. Sizing and protection selection must be based on the installation’s technical data, rather than an indicative arrangement taken from another project.
Number of circuits, socket outlets and control functions
It is useful to separate outputs by function. A list of equipment or circuits explains what each line must supply and which connections it requires. For panels with socket outlets, specify the number and characteristics of the planned connections as well.
Control functions need an equally clear description: which equipment will be operated, how you want to use it and what switching functions are required. Asking for “automation” without explaining the expected operation is not sufficient. Define the function before selecting the devices that will provide it.
Available space and accessibility
External dimensions are not the only criterion for choosing an enclosure. Internal space must accommodate the equipment and allow connections to be organised, while the panel’s position should facilitate operation and the planned interventions.
Provide the dimensions of the installation location and explain how the cables will approach it. Access to devices, door opening and circuit identification should also be considered. An enclosure that fits into the available opening does not necessarily meet all these requirements.
How to choose an enclosure for a custom-built electrical panel
Enclosure selection connects the equipment with the environment where it will be installed. Material, dimensions, closing system, mounting and cable entries need to be assessed together. The Solera enclosure catalogue provides families and configurations that can serve as a starting point.
Indoor, outdoor and site conditions
The description “indoor” or “outdoor” needs to be supplemented with information about the location. A sheltered space does not present the same conditions as a position exposed to water, dust or sunlight. Humidity, temperature and operating conditions may also influence the selection.
The enquiry should describe those conditions without attributing to an entire range characteristics that apply only to certain references. Special requirements must be checked against the product documentation and the characteristics of the assembly being considered.
The role of IP and IK ratings
IP and IK ratings address different aspects of protection. They are criteria to verify for the specific product or assembly, rather than interchangeable labels establishing that any panel is suitable for every environment.
A characteristic of an empty enclosure should not automatically be transferred to an assembly without considering its configuration. Entries, accessories and equipment integration form part of the assembly specification. The guide to IP protection in electrical installations helps explain this criterion.
Spare space and maintenance
Planning for expansion is not simply a matter of choosing a larger enclosure. Explain which changes are likely: additional circuits, new connections or the introduction of control functions. Spare space can then be considered in relation to future use.
Maintenance also needs to be considered from the design stage. Accessibility, orderly connections and equipment identification influence how the panel will be inspected and used. These criteria belong in the project alongside space restrictions and required performance.
Applications for Solera electrical assemblies
Solera has a department specialising in the design, assembly and certification of low-voltage assemblies. Its assembly range covers different applications, each requiring the equipment and project conditions to be defined.
Temporary construction site panels
Construction site panels meet supply and protection needs in temporary installations. To specify an assembly, identify the available supply, required outputs, socket outlets and conditions of use.
Solera offers construction site panels supplied assembled and wired, with their corresponding certificate of conformity. Selection must be checked against the specific configuration: the number of connections, their characteristics and the contents of the assembly need to match the planned site.
Industrial panels and commercial applications
In industrial and commercial premises, requirements can vary according to the equipment and services supplied. Solera’s range includes industrial panels with or without protective devices; the scope must be clarified for each enquiry.
A useful description identifies the circuits, loads and functions to be integrated. If the panel forms part of a larger installation, explain that relationship so the assembly can be considered within the project as a whole.
Residential electrical panels
Solera offers residential electrical panels with configurations for different electrification needs. When considering an assembly, define the installation’s distribution and protection requirements, the planned circuits and the available mounting space.
The home electrical panel guide explores this context further. A particular project must be specified using its own data and requirements, rather than copying a configuration without checking its suitability.
Swimming pool protection and control panels
Swimming pool assemblies can integrate the control and protection of pumps and lighting. The enquiry should distinguish which equipment will be served, which functions are needed and where the panel will be installed.
For this application, it is useful to describe circuits and expected operation separately. The article on swimming pool electrical panels provides further information on selection criteria.
Panels for photovoltaic installations
Solera’s offer includes string connection and protection panels for photovoltaic installations. The system configuration and the requirements on the DC and AC sides are needed to study the assembly.
Information about connections, equipment and location makes the request more precise. The guide to DC and AC protection in photovoltaics helps put these functions in context, while the photovoltaic panel configurator provides a dedicated route for this application.
Panels for electric vehicle charging points
Solera’s assembly range includes single-phase and three-phase panels for protecting charging points. Their specification must relate to the characteristics of the charging point and the installation supplying it.
To begin the study, identify the equipment, planned supply, location and project requirements. Protection must be defined using that information: the description “electric vehicle panel” alone does not identify a configuration suitable for every situation.
How to prepare a complete quotation request
A well-prepared enquiry reduces ambiguity and allows the scope to be assessed against concrete requirements. Before sending it, gather the available information in the following order:
- Describe the application. Explain where the panel will be used and which function it must fulfil.
- Identify the supply and equipment. Provide available electrical data and a list of loads.
- List circuits and connections. Distinguish lines, socket outlets and control functions.
- Explain the location. Include environmental conditions, dimensions and mounting method.
- Attach existing documentation. Diagrams, drawings and specifications help clarify the request.
- Define the supply scope. State quantities, equipment, wiring and required documentation.
- Identify outstanding points. Clearly indicate decisions that still require study.
When comparing proposals, check that they cover the same scope. A quotation for an enclosure and devices is not necessarily equivalent to one for an assembled, wired unit with the requested documentation. These differences need to be clear before considering the price alone.
Illustrative example: specifying a swimming pool panel
Imagine a project that needs to serve pumping equipment and lighting. A request stating only “swimming pool panel” leaves essential questions open. To clarify it, identify the equipment, its circuits, the available supply and the intended control functions.
Next, describe the installation location: where the panel will be mounted, how much space is available, how cables will approach it and which conditions exist on site. Any plans to add further equipment should also be stated.
That information allows an assessment of whether an existing configuration meets the requirement or a special assembly needs to be studied. The example helps organise the enquiry; it does not replace the installation diagram, sizing or technical verification.
Mistakes to avoid when ordering a custom-built panel
Choosing the enclosure first and specifying the equipment afterwards. This can leave insufficient space or an arrangement that is difficult to implement. The enclosure and components should be considered together.
Asking for “the same as another installation” without providing its data. Apparently similar applications may have different circuits, equipment and operating conditions. A previous reference can inform the discussion, but it must be checked against the new project.
Confusing protection and control functions. The enquiry needs to explain what the panel must do and how equipment will be used. Listing devices without describing their purpose can leave requirements unresolved.
Leaving wiring and documentation unspecified. Both are part of the scope of supply. Confirming them makes clear what will be received and which tasks will need to be completed afterwards.
Questions about Solera custom-built electrical panels
Is there a minimum quantity for a special assembly enquiry?
Solera offers quotation requests for special assemblies with no commitment and no minimum quantities. Configuration and supply scope are studied according to the project requirements.
Do all special panels include the same equipment?
No. Equipment depends on the application and the agreed supply scope. The range includes, for example, industrial panels with or without protective devices. Components and connections need to be confirmed for the specific assembly.
Can an enquiry start without a final diagram?
You can begin by describing the application, supply, equipment and installation conditions. Identify missing data so the information required for the technical study can be clarified before the solution is defined.
Where can available solutions and configurations be found?
The Solera special electrical assemblies area presents applications and examples of panels. The datasheets and documentation for each reference allow you to check its characteristics and assess whether an existing configuration meets the project requirements.
From installation requirements to the right assembly
A custom-built electrical panel is specified by relating its function to the actual installation. The supply, circuits, environment, space and maintenance requirements should be reflected in the enquiry, together with the assembly scope.
If your project needs a specific configuration, request a quotation for a special electrical assembly from Solera. Providing this information from the outset helps the team study a solution suited to the application, with the components and documentation defined for the requested assembly.