Number of ways in a Panelboard

“it rather depends” In general a 3 phase board of N ways can take 3 times N single phase circuits, unless it is that rare beast a 3 phase and N board for 4 pole breakers.

A single phase board of N ways takes a maximum of N circuits. Beware of the 9mm wide half width circuit breakers…

Some ways may be lost to the main switch mounts or bus extension fittings, surge protection and other things, so it might not be that good. To be sure always ask for the drawing.

Mike

Is the quantity of breakers has to be multiples of 3 in any panel board?

Not entirely. You can for example get a 4-way panel board - that'll accept just 4 three-pole breakers (or 12 single-pole ones).

   - Andy.

Nick

It all depends. If you look at the Schneider Powerpact panel boards, my MCCB panel board of choice, they quote numbers of single pole ways and triple pole ways. If you want 4 pole MCCBs then you do not get as many ways as you need a neutral kit for the 4 poles. Speak to Schneider technical before ordering they are very helpful. I have a contact from Eaton if I want to use MEM 4 MCCB panels and need advice. If you are specifying a panel to be built then you say what you want from the panel builder.