Main Distribution Panels: Core Power Management for Marine Electrical Systems

Onboard marine electrical systems rely on a centralized hub to safely and efficiently distribute power across all critical subsystems. This hub is the Main Distribution Panel (MDP)—a vital part of any ship's power architecture. At Serden Ship Supply Marine Electric & Electronics Ltd., we design, manufacture, and integrate Main Distribution Panels tailored to the unique needs of each vessel, ensuring safe, stable, and class-compliant power delivery.

With over 30 years of experience, our marine-grade distribution panels serve commercial, military, offshore, and leisure vessels worldwide.

 What is a Main Distribution Panel?

A Main Distribution Panel (MDP), also known as a switchboard or main switchgear, is the central point where the ship’s generated power is routed and distributed to various electrical loads throughout the vessel. It connects to:

• Generators and shore power supplies

• Emergency power systems

• Propulsion equipment

• Navigation systems

• Lighting and HVAC circuits

• Automation and safety systems

The MDP is responsible for circuit protection, load balancing, voltage control, and system monitoring—making it one of the most critical components in marine electrical engineering.

 Core Features of Our MDP Solutions

Our Main Distribution Panels are designed and built to:

• Handle voltages from 24V DC to 690V AC

• Support 3-phase and single-phase systems

• Include load-sharing and synchronization modules

• House protection devices (MCBs, MCCBs, ACBs, relays)

• Provide short-circuit and overload protection

• Integrate control systems (e.g., generator start/stop)

• Monitor voltage, current, frequency, and power factor

• Include mimic diagrams and alarm indicators

• Ensure redundancy with transfer switches (ATS/STS)

All panels are housed in IP54–IP65-rated enclosures with marine anti-corrosion coatings and vibration-dampened mounting.

 Design & Customization

Every vessel is different, and so is every MDP we build. Our design process includes:

• Evaluation of vessel power requirements

• Load analysis and busbar calculation

• Cable routing and protection strategy

• Custom busbar layouts (copper/silver-coated)

• 3D CAD drawings and technical documentation

• Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and simulations

• Class society approvals and coordination

We build panels for both main and emergency switchboards, as well as sub-distribution panels.

 MDP Applications in Various Vessel Types

We supply MDPs for:

• Cargo ships and container vessels

• Tankers (chemical, LNG, oil)

• Passenger and cruise ships

• Naval and coast guard ships

• Yachts and superyachts

• Fishing trawlers

• Offshore platforms and support vessels

We also provide shore-based panels for shipyard test benches and port facilities.

 Compatible Components and Brands

Our MDPs are compatible with:

• Generators: MAN, Caterpillar, Cummins, Wärtsilä

• Protection Devices: Schneider, ABB, Siemens, LS

• Controllers: Deep Sea, ComAp, DEIF

• Switches & Relays: Lovato, Omron, Eaton

• Monitoring Units: Carlo Gavazzi, Socomec

We can also integrate with your Power Management System (PMS), SCADA, or Alarm Monitoring System (AMS).

 Compliance & Standards

All our panels meet:

• IEC 60092-302/303/304 (marine switchboards)

• SOLAS, IMO, and IACS requirements

• EMC and insulation testing standards

• Class society approvals from DNV, RINA, BV, LR, ABS, ClassNK

We provide full documentation, including:

• Single line diagrams

• Load calculations

• FAT reports and testing logs

• Manuals and maintenance guides

 Smart Integration Options

• Digital touchscreen HMI panels

• Remote monitoring and diagnostics

• Generator auto-start and load-sharing logic

• Modbus/TCP communication for PMS and VMS

• Energy management reporting and trending

 Installation & After-Sales Support

Our services include:

• Onboard installation and cabling

• Retrofit of existing panels

• Commissioning and test protocols

• Class society inspection support

• Troubleshooting and repair

• Spare parts supply and yearly checkups

With our 24/7 technical support, Serden ensures your vessel’s power system never goes dark.

 Why Choose Serden?

•  30+ years of marine electrical panel expertise

•  Custom-designed solutions for any vessel size or type

•  High-quality materials and global brand components

•  In-house engineering, wiring, and FAT testing

•  Full class documentation and international compliance

•  Global support and fast spare part delivery

When it comes to marine power distribution, reliability is everything. With Serden's MDPs, your vessel gets the backbone it deserves.

 Ready to Power Up?

Contact us today to discuss your vessel’s electrical distribution needs. We’ll help design and deliver a Main Distribution Panel that fits your ship, your regulations, and your expectations.