Introduction

When it comes to low-voltage power distribution in the United States and other regions adopting U.S. electrical standards, two key UL standards dominate the market: UL891 (Switchboards) and UL67 (Panelboards).

For electrical engineers, contractors, and EPC firms, understanding the differences between UL891 and UL67 is not just a matter of compliance — it’s essential for selecting the right equipment for performance, safety, and project requirements.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• What UL891 and UL67 each cover

• Their design, safety, and application differences

• Compliance and certification processes

• Selection tips for your projects

• How FATENG Electric supports your UL-compliant needs

1. Understanding UL Standards in Electrical Distribution

UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is an independent global safety certification company. UL standards define rigorous safety and performance criteria for electrical equipment used in North America.

In the field of low-voltage distribution equipment:

• UL891 governs Switchboards

• UL67 governs Panelboards

Both standards ensure the equipment is safe, durable, and fit for intended applications, but they target different types of equipment and installation environments.

2. What is UL891?

UL891 – Switchboards is a standard for metal-enclosed, dead-front switchboards rated 600 volts AC or less.

Key Features

• Voltage rating: Up to 600V AC

• Current rating: Up to 6000A (varies by design)

• Enclosure type: Indoor or outdoor, metal-enclosed, dead-front

• Construction: Floor-mounted, front- or rear-accessible

• Sections: Typically consist of main sections, distribution sections, and metering/control sections

• Applications:

  • Large commercial buildings

  • Industrial facilities

  • Data centers

  • Utility substations (low-voltage side)

Technical Notes

UL891 switchboards can integrate multiple protective devices, such as power circuit breakers, molded case circuit breakers (MCCBs), fusible switches, and metering equipment.

They are often custom-engineered to meet project-specific requirements, with flexible layouts and component selections.

3. What is UL67?

UL67 – Panelboards is a standard for single-panel or multiple-panel assemblies used for lighting and appliance branch-circuit distribution.

Key Features

• Voltage rating: Typically up to 600V AC

• Current rating: Usually up to 1200A

• Enclosure type: Wall-mounted, flush-mounted, or surface-mounted

• Construction: Compact, standardized dimensions, factory-assembled

• Applications:

  • Residential complexes

  • Commercial offices

  • Small to medium industrial facilities

  • Control panels for smaller loads

Technical Notes

UL67 panelboards are designed for branch circuit protection and distribution. They house protective devices like MCCBs and fuses, typically feeding lighting, receptacles, and small machinery.

4. UL891 vs UL67: Key Differences

Here’s a side-by-side comparison:

5. Compliance and Certification Processes

Both UL891 and UL67 products must undergo rigorous type testing and production inspections to meet UL requirements.

UL891 Certification Highlights

• Dielectric tests for insulation strength

• Temperature rise tests under load

• Short-circuit withstand tests

• Enclosure protection verification

UL67 Certification Highlights

• Dielectric and insulation tests

• Overcurrent protective device verification

• Wiring space and bending radius compliance

• Labeling and accessibility requirements

Note:
FATENG Electric’s UL891 and UL67 products are designed in compliance with the latest UL requirements, ensuring safety and performance for global projects.

6. Selecting the Right Standard for Your Project

Choosing between UL891 and UL67 is not just about technical compliance — it’s about matching the right equipment to your operational needs.

Use UL891 When:

• You need high current capacity (above 1200A)

• You require multiple large circuit breakers in one assembly

• Your facility demands custom-engineered solutions

• You need main power distribution for large buildings or plants

Use UL67 When:

• Your application is branch circuit distribution

• You need a compact, wall-mounted solution

• Your project involves residential or light commercial distribution

• You prioritize standardized, quick-install equipment

7. Industry Trends and Considerations

With increasing emphasis on energy efficiency, digital monitoring, and modular construction, both UL891 and UL67 products are evolving.

• Smart Switchboards integrate metering, energy analytics, and IoT monitoring.

• Prefabricated electrical rooms often combine UL891 switchboards with UL67 panelboards for turnkey deployment.

• Arc flash mitigation features are becoming standard in UL891 products for worker safety.

8. FATENG Electric: Your Partner for UL-Compliant Solutions

At FATENG Electric, we understand that meeting UL standards is not only a compliance requirement but a gateway to safer, more reliable, and globally accepted electrical solutions.

Our Advantages:

• UL891 & UL67 product expertise

• OEM & ODM capabilities for global brands

• ISO9001-certified manufacturing

• Modular, customizable designs

• Fast, stable delivery timelines (6–24 weeks for UL products)

• Global project experience in the U.S., Middle East, Africa, and Asia

Whether you need a high-capacity UL891 switchboard or a space-saving UL67 panelboard, FATENG Electric delivers solutions that integrate safety, performance, and cost-effectiveness.

9. Conclusion

Both UL891 and UL67 play critical roles in modern power distribution. Understanding their differences ensures you select the right product for your specific project — avoiding over-engineering, ensuring compliance, and optimizing cost.

At FATENG Electric, we bring technical expertise, global project experience, and strict adherence to UL standards to every switchgear solution we deliver.

If you’re planning a project that requires UL891 or UL67 equipment, contact our team today to discuss your needs and explore our tailored solutions.