The commonly used distribution boxes are made of wood and metal. Because the protection level of metal distribution boxes is higher, metal is used more.

Classification by structural characteristics and use:

(1) Fixed panel switchgear, often called switchboard or power distribution panel. It is an open-type switch cabinet with panel shielding, the front has a protective effect, the back and sides can still touch the live parts, and the protection level is low. It can only be used in industrial and mining enterprises that require low power supply continuity and reliability. The transformer room is used for centralized power supply.

(2) Protective (that is, closed) switchgear refers to a low-voltage switchgear in which all sides are closed except the installation surface. The electrical components such as switch, protection and monitoring control of this kind of cabinet are installed in a closed shell made of steel or insulating material, and can be installed on the wall or away from the wall. There may be no isolation measures between each circuit in the cabinet, or a grounded metal plate or insulating plate can be used for isolation. Usually the door is mechanically interlocked with the main switch operation. In addition, there is a protective table-type switch cabinet (ie console), and the panel is equipped with electrical appliances such as control, measurement, and signal. The protective switchgear is mainly used as a power distribution device on the process site.

(3) Drawer switch cabinet. This kind of switch cabinet is made of steel plate to make a closed shell, and the electrical components of the incoming and outgoing circuit are installed in a drawer that can be withdrawn to form a functional unit that can complete a certain type of power supply task. The functional unit and the bus bar or cable are separated by a grounded metal plate or a functional plate made of plastic to form three areas of bus bar, functional unit and cable. There are also isolation measures between each functional unit. The drawer switchgear has high reliability, safety and interchangeability, and is a relatively advanced switchgear. Most of the switchgear refer to the drawer switchgear. They are suitable for industrial and mining enterprises and high-rise buildings that require high reliability of power supply, as centrally controlled distribution centers.