Withdrawable (Draw-out) Switchgear
Withdrawable switchgear is the most flexible option. The circuit breakers and functional units are mounted on removable carriages (drawers) that slide in and out of the switchgear enclosure.
Best for: Critical processes where downtime is expensive. Think petrochemical plants, data centers, steel mills, and hospitals. If a breaker fails in a withdrawable panel, you can pull out the faulty drawer and slot in a spare in under 10 minutes — without shutting down the rest of the switchboard.
Where it falls short: It costs 20-40% more than fixed type. The additional mechanical components (drawer rails, secondary disconnect contacts, shutter mechanisms) also mean there is marginally more that can go wrong over a 20-year lifespan — although in practice, modern designs are very reliable.
Real project example: We recently supplied MNS switchgear for a cement plant in Nigeria. The client originally wanted fixed type to save money, but after we showed them that a single unplanned 4-hour shutdown would cost them more in lost production than the entire switchgear upgrade price difference, they went with withdrawable.
Fixed Type Switchgear
Fixed type switchgear (like the GGD series) has all components permanently mounted and wired. It is simpler, more robust, and more affordable.
Best for: Standard distribution applications where maintenance can be scheduled. Think lighting distribution, workshop power supply, building services, and small to medium industrial facilities.
Key numbers to know:
- GGD series main busbar rating: up to 3150A
- Short-circuit withstand: 50kA (1s)
- Cost: roughly 30-40% less than equivalent withdrawable switchgear
- Most widely used fixed LV switchgear model in China — over 30 years of field history
Motor Control Centers (MCC)
Motor Control Centers (MCC) are a specialized form of LV switchgear designed specifically for controlling multiple electric motors. They combine incoming feeders, motor starters (contactors + overloads), variable frequency drives (VFDs), and soft starters in a single assembly.
Best for: Any facility with multiple motors — factories, pumping stations, conveyor systems, HVAC plants, and wastewater treatment facilities.
Key facts about MCC:
- Each motor circuit has its own combination starter unit (contactor, overload relay, short-circuit protection)
- Units are typically plug-in or withdrawable for quick replacement
- Can accommodate VFDs and soft starters in the same lineup
- Control wiring is pre-terminated at the factory — reducing on-site installation time
Cost Comparison Overview
| Type | Example Model | Current Range | Cost Index | Best Application |
| Withdrawable (High-end) | MNS | Up to 6300A | 1.4 – 1.6 | Power plants, petrochemical, data centers |
| Withdrawable (Standard) | GCS | Up to 5000A | 1.2 – 1.4 | Power stations, large industrial |
| Withdrawable (Compact) | GCK | Up to 3150A | 1.1 – 1.2 | General industry, buildings |
| Fixed Type | GGD | Up to 3150A | 1.0 (baseline) | Standard distribution, lighting |
| Capacitor Cabinet | GGJ | Up to 1200kVar | varies | Power factor correction |
What I Usually Tell First-Time Buyers
Step 1: Estimate your total load and check if it is below or above 3150A. If above, you need withdrawable (MNS or GCS). If below, you have more options.
Step 2: Ask yourself: can I afford to shut down the entire electrical system for maintenance? If yes, fixed type (GGD) will save you money. If no, withdrawable (GCK or GCS) is worth the extra cost.
Step 3: Do you have motors? If you have more than 10-15 motors, consider an MCC rather than a general distribution board. It will be better organized and safer to maintain.
Step 4: Check if your utility charges power factor penalties. If they do, add a GGJ capacitor cabinet — the payback period is typically 6-18 months in reduced electricity costs.
Not sure which LV switchgear suits your project? Talk to our team — we can help you work it out.