Dappareillages

Dappareillages is a French term used in electrical engineering to designate the equipment and assemblies that constitute the switchgear and control gear of an electrical installation. It covers devices used to distribute, switch, protect, and control electrical power, and is commonly translated, in English, as switchgear and control gear.

Typical dappareillages include protective devices such as fuses and circuit breakers, switching devices like switches and contactors, control and automation components (relays, timers, PLCs), motor starters, meters and sensors, as well as enclosures, busbars, terminal blocks, and mounting hardware.

Design, assembly, and use of dappareillages follow national and international standards to ensure safety and reliability. In Europe, EN 61439 or IEC 61439 covers switchgear and controlgear assemblies; in many regions IEC 60364 governs electrical installations; in the United States, NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) applies. Proper labeling, insulation coordination, and routine testing are essential.

They are used in industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and utility infrastructure. The lifecycle includes specification, manufacture or procurement, assembly in panels or cabinets, commissioning, operation, and maintenance.

Originating from French appareillage, the term dappareillages denotes the equipment and assemblies for electrical power distribution and control, and is widely used in French-language technical literature. English texts typically render the concept as switchgear and control gear.