MCC vs PCC Panels: What They Do and How to Specify Them

In any factory electrical system, power flows from the transformer to hundreds of loads. Two kinds of panels do most of that work: the Power Control Centre (PCC) and the Motor Control Centre (MCC). They are often confused, so this article explains the difference, what each contains, and what to put in your specification when ordering panels.

What is a PCC panel?

The PCC is the main low-voltage distribution panel. It receives power from the transformer (and often the DG set) and distributes it to downstream panels such as MCCs, lighting distribution boards and APFC panels.

Typical PCC components:

• Incomer air circuit breakers (ACBs) from the transformer and DG
• Bus coupler and interlocks for source changeover
• Outgoing ACB or MCCB feeders to MCCs and other panels
• Multi-function meters, protection relays and indication
• High-current copper or aluminium busbars rated for the fault level

What is an MCC panel?

The MCC groups the starters and protection for many motors in one place. Each motor gets its own feeder, often in a separate compartment or drawout module.

Typical MCC feeders:

• DOL starters for small motors
• Star-delta starters to reduce starting current on larger motors
• Soft starters for smooth starting of pumps, compressors and conveyors
• VFD feeders where speed control or energy saving is needed
• MPCBs or MCCBs, contactors, overload relays, ammeters and local/remote selection

MCC vs PCC: side by side

In smaller plants a single "PMCC" panel may combine both functions.

What to specify when ordering

• Load list: every motor with kW, starting method and whether it needs a VFD.
• Short-circuit rating: the fault level at the panel (in kA for 1 second), which drives busbar and breaker selection.
• Form of separation: from Form 1 (no internal separation) to Form 4 (each feeder fully separated), as defined in IEC 61439. Higher forms improve safety and allow maintenance on one feeder while others run.
• Fixed or drawout feeders: drawout modules cost more but allow very fast replacement.
• Control interface: hardwired, or PLC/SCADA integration with status and current feedback over a network.
• Spare feeders: plan 15 to 20% spare capacity for future expansion.
• Environment: IP rating, ventilation and panel cooling for hot or dusty areas.

Don't forget power factor and harmonics

Large motor and VFD loads affect power factor and harmonics. Most plants pair the PCC with an APFC panel, and plants with many drives should consider detuned capacitor banks or harmonic filters.

Panels designed and built in-house

AB Automation's dedicated panel team designs and builds automation, VFD, MCC, PCC and APFC panels in-house, so you get one partner for power, motor control and automation. Send us your load list for a proposal.