QUICK ANSWER
A motor control centre (MCC) is a type of switchboard built specifically to control and protect electric motors, with each motor fed from its own starter or variable speed drive module. A standard switchboard distributes power to general circuits; an MCC centralises motor control, protection and monitoring in one assembly. Most industrial and process sites use both, and both are built to AS/NZS 61439.
On a commercial or industrial site the terms switchboard and motor control centre often get used as if they are the same thing. They are related, but they do different jobs. Understanding the difference helps facility managers, builders and process engineers specify the right equipment and make sure motors are protected the way the standard requires. This guide explains a motor control centre versus a switchboard, when you need each, and how the two work together.
What is a motor control centre?
A motor control centre, or MCC, is an assembly that brings together the control and protection of multiple electric motors in one place. Each motor is fed from its own module, typically containing a contactor or starter, overload protection, isolation and often a variable speed drive (VSD). Modules are usually built as withdrawable or fixed cubicles so a single motor circuit can be worked on without shutting the whole board down.
What is a switchboard?
A switchboard takes the incoming supply and distributes it to the circuits around a building: lighting, power, air conditioning, sub-boards and equipment. A main switchboard is the heart of the installation, with the main switch, metering and the protective devices for each outgoing circuit. It is about safe, compliant distribution of power across the site.
Motor control centre vs switchboard: the key differences
| Switchboard | Motor control centre | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Distribute power to circuits | Control and protect motors |
| Typical contents | Main switch, metering, breakers | Starters, VSDs, overloads, isolators |
| Maintenance | Whole sections isolated | Individual motor modules isolated |
| Where used | Every commercial building | Industrial, process, pumping, HVAC plant |
| Standard | AS/NZS 61439 | AS/NZS 61439 |
When do you need a motor control centre?
- The site runs several motors: pumps, fans, conveyors, compressors or HVAC plant
- You need variable speed control on motors for efficiency or process control
- You want to isolate and service one motor circuit without shutting the plant down
- You need centralised monitoring, fault indication or PLC integration
- You are building or upgrading a manufacturing or process facility
What is inside a motor control centre?
A typical motor control centre module includes a circuit breaker or fused isolator, a contactor or starter, overload protection, and frequently a variable speed drive. Larger MCCs integrate PLC control, metering and communications so the whole motor system can be monitored from one place. Because each module is self-contained, an MCC keeps a busy site running while individual circuits are maintained.
How a compliant MCC is built
A motor control centre is a specialist industrial switchboard, built and type-tested to AS/NZS 61439 with full documentation. The design has to account for motor starting currents, fault levels, segregation between modules and heat. This is engineering work, not a general electrical job, which is why MCCs are built by specialist switchboard contractors. For manufacturing sites this often forms part of a wider manufacturing switchboard project.
Can a switchboard and MCC be combined?
Yes. On many sites the main distribution and the motor control are built into one coordinated lineup, or sit side by side and are designed together. The key is that the motor control section is engineered as an MCC, with the protection and starting that motors need, rather than treated as ordinary outgoing circuits. Where high voltage is involved, this can also tie into HV switchboards and substations.
Why use a switchboard specialist
Specifying and building a motor control centre correctly takes switchboard engineering depth: motor protection coordination, VSD integration, fault ratings and AS/NZS 61439 compliance. Because switchboards and MCCs are all we do, the board is designed for the motors and the site, built to standard, and handed over with full documentation and ongoing maintenance support.
Motor control centre vs switchboard: frequently asked questions
Is a motor control centre a switchboard?
Yes, an MCC is a specialised type of switchboard built to AS/NZS 61439, but its purpose is controlling and protecting motors rather than general power distribution.
What is the main difference between an MCC and a switchboard?
A switchboard distributes power to circuits; a motor control centre centralises the starting, protection and control of multiple motors in individual modules.
Do I need an MCC or a standard switchboard?
If the site runs several motors, needs variable speed control, or needs to service one motor without shutting the plant down, you need an MCC. General buildings use a standard switchboard.
What is inside an MCC module?
Typically a breaker or isolator, a contactor or starter, overload protection and often a variable speed drive, with optional PLC and monitoring.
Who should build a motor control centre?
A specialist switchboard contractor, because MCC design and build to AS/NZS 61439 is specialist engineering.
Can an MCC and switchboard be in the same lineup?
Yes, distribution and motor control are often designed together in one coordinated assembly.
Related guides
Standards and references
About the author
Anthony Nuich is the owner of Commercial Switchboards, the specialist switchboard division of SEQ Sparky Pty Ltd, holding QLD Electrical Contractor licence #90899. With 10+ years of commercial, industrial and HV switchboard and MCC experience across Brisbane and Queensland, Anthony reviews every project personally.
If you are weighing up a motor control centre or an industrial switchboard for your site, request an initial project review and we will advise the right setup.
