Electrical cells and switchgears: functional differences and when to use each one.
- Grupo Edmar
- Oct 29
- 4 min read
October 29, 2025 - Electrical Cells and switchgears: Functional Differences and When to Use Each One.
Electrical cells and switchgears: functional differences and when to use each one.
In modern electrical systems, the concepts of electrical distribution cells and disconnect switch are often confused, even though they serve very different functions. Both are essential elements for ensuring the safety, continuity, and control of electrical power, especially in industrial and distribution environments. Knowing how to distinguish between them and using them properly can make the difference between an efficient system and one vulnerable to failures or unnecessary interruptions.
In this article we explain in detail the functional differences between an electrical cell and a switchgear , how they work together, and what factors to consider when choosing them for your projects.
What is an electrical cell and what is a disconnect switch?
An electrical cell is a switching and control unit that houses, within a metal or resin enclosure, all the components necessary to distribute, protect, and monitor electrical power in medium or high voltage systems. These switchgear units can be of different types: AIS (air-insulated), GIS (gas-insulated) , or solid resin , and are chosen according to the application, voltage level, available space, and environmental conditions.
A switchgear, on the other hand, is a mechanical device whose function is to interrupt or electrically isolate a circuit , allowing for safe switching operations or maintenance. Disconnect switches can be installed inside switchgear (as part of the assembly) or independently on lines and substations.
The confusion between the two arises because disconnectors are sometimes integrated within cells, but they are not the same thing :
The electric cell is a complete system.
The switchgear is an isolation or disconnection component.
In simple terms: every cell can have a switchgear, but not every switchgear is a cell.
Main functions of each one.
Electric cell
Electrical cells are responsible for:
Distribute electrical energy in a controlled and safe manner to different circuits.
Protect equipment and people using devices such as circuit breakers and protective relays.
Enable remote monitoring and control , thanks to integration with SCADA systems or smart sensors.
Optimize physical space , as they group several electrical elements into a single modular cabinet.
A common example is the use of secondary distribution cells in an industrial plant, where each module feeds a different section of the network.
Disconnector or switchgear
The main function of disconnect switches is to electrically isolate a part of the circuit . They are not designed to interrupt current under load (unless they are of the "on-load" type), but rather to ensure a visible and safe point of disconnection.
Its main functions include:
Ensure safety during maintenance by physically isolating the equipment.
To allow operational maneuvers without affecting the entire electrical system.
Integrate fuses or dielectric gas mechanisms to improve protection and reliability.
Reduce the risk of short circuits and failures due to improper handling.
When to use an electrical cell and when to use a switchgear.
The selection criteria depend on the level of control and protection required . Here are some practical scenarios:
Electrical Cell: used when several functions (switching, protection, metering, distribution) need to be centralized within a single module. Ideal for substations, industrial plants, data centers, and medium-voltage networks .
Switchgear: used when the objective is to isolate a part of the installation or perform maintenance operations without interrupting the entire network. It is more common in distribution lines or interconnection points .
For example, a 13.8 kV medium-voltage switchgear can contain a disconnect switch, a circuit breaker, and a current transformer. In contrast, a pedestal-type disconnect switch can be installed in the street to allow maintenance of a branch line without de-energizing the entire line.
Key differences between an electrical cell and a switchgear.
Feature | Electric cell | Disconnector / Switchgear |
Size and structure | Enclosed metal module with several components | Compact, point-point device |
Main function | Distribution, protection and operation | Electrical insulation |
Facility | Inside substations or electrical rooms | In the field or within cells |
Cost | Larger investment, but multifunctional | More economical, limited function |
Maintenance | Comprehensive, requires periodic inspection of components | Mechanical, focused on contacts and mechanisms |
Applicable regulations | IEC 62271, CFE G0100, NOM-001-SEDE | IEC 62271-102, CFE G0100 or CFE D9000 |
Typical application | Industrial plants, data centers, substations | Distribution networks, field operations |
Integration of both teams into one installation.
In practice, switchgear and disconnectors work together to ensure continuity and safety. In a typical medium-voltage scheme, the disconnector is part of the input or output module within the switchgear, and allows the circuits to be isolated when maintenance is required.
At Grupo Edmar , we design solutions where both teams are strategically integrated, ensuring reliable power flow and electrical protection that complies with CFE standards. We also manufacture modular cells that already include state-of-the-art switchgear-type disconnectors, optimizing space and reducing installation costs.
Good practices when selecting or installing.
Before choosing or installing either of the two devices, consider the following:
Evaluate the voltage level: cells and disconnectors must be selected according to the voltage class of your system (medium or high voltage).
Ensure visibility of the insulation: the disconnectors must allow you to clearly see the open or closed state.
Check the type of environment: if the environment is humid, corrosive or dusty, choose resistant materials or gas insulated systems (GIS).
Preventive maintenance program: visual inspection, dielectric testing and internal cleaning of components.
Compliant with CFE and NOM standards: this ensures that your equipment can connect seamlessly to public or private networks.
At Grupo Edmar we offer personalized technical advice to help you select the most suitable equipment according to the electrical and physical characteristics of your installation.
Business benefits of combining both solutions.
Implementing a system that combines properly designed electrical cells and disconnectors offers competitive advantages:
Greater safety for technical and operational staff.
Reduction of downtime , thanks to the ability to isolate specific sections.
Regulatory compliance guaranteed , especially with CFE standards.
Long-term savings by avoiding damage from overload or electrical failures.
Improved energy efficiency , by optimizing power distribution.
Ease of expansion , since the modular cells allow adding new circuits without modifying the entire installation.
At Grupo Edmar we help Mexican companies implement safe, efficient and scalable electrical infrastructure , with solutions adapted to the current challenges of the electrical industry.
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