CTR Electronics Power Distribution Panel (PDP)(Series or parallel combination)

Technical Electrical
1

Hello everyone,
Regarding PDP, I have a question

Can you use two channels of PDP (40A) each in parallel combination to provide 80A current to a single motor and having three more motors on the other 40 A channels taking current to 320 A.

Or can you use two channels in series combination to provide 24 volts to a motor?

I don’t think it’s possible but I just want to confirm from someone who has used this board

and if you can do suggest some power distribution board that can provide either 24V DC or has upto 80-90 A channels.

I think old PDP was 24V
can I get it from somewhere?

2

What are you powering that would need that level of current? Old PDP had a like 5a fused 24v for something (I forget what) but the rest was all 12v.

Assuming this is not official you probably could do it, but I would ask yourself, why?

Series would not be good, the channels are not isolated from each other, so you would be shorting to ground.

If you want a 24v system I would do two batteries in series and get an automotive fusebox to the distribution, it’s cheaper too.

3

Seconding Jimbo…

  • Both are illegal for an FRC robot.
  • Serial for 24V would not work at all; the circuits are in parallel of the same 12V battery.
  • Parallel for more current would work, but it compromises the safety reasons you use breakers in the first place. Further, if you did trip one, the other would follow immediately. Then, as one would come back in before the other, you’d likely trip it before the other one came back, assuming the load was still in the circuit. If you need an 80A circuit, get an 80A breaker.

Maxi fuses are available up to 80A; if you do this, do not use it in a PDP (which is not sized internally for that much current); use it with afuse holder designed for up to 80A.
Optionally, auto parts shops sell breakers this size in the same style as the FRC standard 120A main breaker.

Something like this, perhaps (though 50A, not 80). I’ve got one coming in on Monday.

Update: it came in just now!

4

Yes you could run two outputs in parallel w/o problems related to that.

I do disagree with Gee’s thought that it would compromise safety, as it is something done regularly in the world of upfitting.

However I don’t think it would be the best option unless you need to monitor the current via the PDP’s CAN bus.

I’d create my own distribution system and use the small automotive stud mount breakers like these.

https://www.delcity.net/store/Stud-Mount-Circuit-Breakers/p_167864

They are available in 12v or 24v, metal or plastic case, a number of different mounting options, and automatic or manual reset.

You then gang two of the 40 amp units together with these.

https://www.waytekwire.com/item/46562/EATON-s-Bussmann-Series-B-109-1693-02/

Those are also available with more positions though you’ve have to check the mfg ratings to see if you could supply a 320a load with just a single bus.

You then cover them with this https://www.delcity.net/store/Circuit-Breaker-Insulator/p_806523.h_806524 cutting out as needed for wire and/or buss bar.

Personally I’d use this breaker as it has a manual reset and the brackets that will allow you to place them in the configuration needed to gang a pair with the buss bar.

https://www.delcity.net/store/Manual-Reset-Circuit-Breakers/p_198672.h_201365

Very cost effective and proven over decades of use in the automotive world.

Also important to note if you did want to go 24v the style of breaker used as the main breaker in FRC is available in versions rated up to 42v https://www.delcity.net/store/Del-City-Manual-Reset-(Switchable),-Surface-Mount/p_811053.h_195738

5

Ahmed,
You need to be a little more descriptive in your question. If you are simply asking about FRC use, what you ask is not legal. While the PDP is designed to use 40 amp breakers, the copper on the board is capable of much higher currents. Remember that a large CIM has a stall current of 131 amps. I have not heard of a PDP failure due to over current except when abused by having metal flakes inside or having bypassed the standard breaker recommendations. If you have a non-FRC application please specify what that app might be in both volt and amp specifications.

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