Overview of industrial control panels
Industrial control panels (ICPs) are defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC) Section 409.2 as an assembly of two or more power circuit components, control circuit components, or any combination of power and control circuit components. These components are typically switches, terminal blocks, contactors, motor drives, transformers, overcurrent protective devices and the like.
Open-type or enclosed equipment
Similar to other industrial equipment, ICPs can be evaluated as open-type or enclosed. Open-type equipment is ultimately installed in an enclosure before being put into service. Enclosed ICPs can be rated for indoor use or any type rating, such as 3R, 4, or 12. In addition, they can be certified for use in classified areas, e.g., hazardous locations.
As a global leader in certifying ICPs, the Panel Shop Program offers unique flexibility for panel manufacturers. They may label either mass-produced or custom-built ICPs without needing UL Solutions to examine each design. The program covers certification for the U.S. and Canadian markets. Also unique to this program is the required training for panel shops that want to participate in it.
UL 508A Industrial Control Panel Shop Program
The UL 508A Industrial Control Panel Shop Program is a part of UL’s General Coverage programs, which offer control panel manufacturers flexibility to apply UL Certification Marks to a wide range of industrial control panel designs. The control panel manufacturer’s level of knowledge and quality control measures are important elements of these programs. Control panel manufacturers initially entering the Industrial Control Panel Shop Program are required to complete mandatory training on the UL 508A industrial control panels Standard and then maintain qualified staff knowledgeable of the requirements of the Standard.
Each manufacturing location must maintain at least one UL 508A qualified manufacturer technical representative (MTR) on staff who can effectively interpret and accurately apply the requirements of the UL 508A industrial control panels Standard. Details for qualifying an MTR can be found in the UL subscriber bulletin and on the examination description page.
Industrial Control Panel Shop Program
Our Industrial Control Panel Shop Program (ICP Program) allows control panel manufacturers who custom-build or mass-produce ICPs to apply the UL Marks for the U.S. and Canada at their factories. Our ICP program makes it convenient to receive a UL certification while allowing maximum flexibility in panel design. When regulators, specifiers and end-product certifiers see the familiar UL Mark, they can be confident that the panel has met the certification requirements.
Hazardous locations markets for industrial control panels
UL Solutions efficiently provides the certification of custom-built industrial control panels with our limited production certification and expanded ambient temperature range rating, opening up new opportunities to market your existing panel designs across North America. Work with a trusted, science-based partner and you can increase your competitive advantage and achieve greater efficiencies, widespread acceptance and more component sourcing flexibility.
ICP Program benefits include:
Widespread acceptance
Benefit from the widespread acceptance of the UL Mark by regulatory authorities in every jurisdiction in the U.S. and Canada.
Cover all requirements
Our ICP Program covers proper component usage, enclosure environmental ratings, wiring and motor protection, safety markings, and conformance to the National Electrical Code (NEC) and Canadian Electrical Code (CEC).
Greater efficiency
Help to minimize red-tagged panels at the job site, along with the resulting delays and extra cost.
Increase your competitive advantage
Offer your customers UL certified general use, industrial machinery, elevator control, service equipment, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, fountain control, irrigation equipment, crane and flame control, and marine use panels and bid on jobs that specify UL certified ICPs.
Increased component sourcing
UL permits acceptance of specific components for use in end products, including ICPs. This provides manufacturers with even more flexibility when sourcing components used in UL certified panels, in addition to UL certified components already permitted under the scope of the ICP program. More information regarding component acceptance is available within UL 508A Supplement SA Specific Component Requirements.
Training and workshops
We share our expertise through technical training and workshops focused on the needs of ICP builders. Attend one of our custom panel builder workshops and hear from the technical experts who can provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary so that you can 'build safety in' while meeting the requirements set by regulators and customers.
Training for industrial control panels
Areas of interest
Frequently asked questions
- If my panel control has only a single motor load, can I use a UL 508A disconnect as my main switch?
No. A UL 508A disconnect is not suitable as a means of isolation. For isolation, you should use a UL 98 disconnect or a UL 489 circuit breaker. Additionally, use of a 508 component within a UL 508A listed assembly UL 508A disconnects must be installed on the load side of a branch circuit overcurrent protective device, a requirement that makes it incompatible for use as the main disconnect switch.
- Are UL Listed fuses certified for use as overcurrent protection on 690 volts alternating current (VAC) branch circuits?
No. There aren’t any UL Listed fuses suitable for branch circuit protection at 690 VAC.
- What features should I look for in an industrial control panel designed for remote monitoring?
Look for the feature to secure remote connectivity with built-in diagnostics, evaluated to recognized standards.
- How do I choose an industrial control panel that can withstand harsh or extreme environments?
Select a panel with ingress protection and NEMA ratings that match the specific environmental threat that the panel will face.
- What are the best industrial control panel solutions for improving energy efficiency in my facility?
The best solutions are those that combine intelligent power management, advanced monitoring and standards that are aligned to the design and not just basic automation.
- What are the most common industrial control panel wiring issues, and how can they be troubleshot effectively?
The most common wiring issues are loose or improperly terminated conductors. Perform a visual inspection, verify torque values using the manufacturer specifications, check for mixed conductor types and re-energize.
- What cybersecurity features should modern industrial control panels include to protect against digital threats?
Limit privileges by user, create unique credentials, multi-factor authentication and least-privilege access to reduce the impact of compromised accounts.
- Why are my industrial control panels experiencing frequent downtime?
Verify incoming power quality, confirm surge protection, review breaker and protection.
- How can I improve the reliability and long-term performance of my industrial control systems?
Design for reliability from the start, select components for the appropriate usage and ratings for the equipment, prevent overcrowding and thermal stress.
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