Best MCC Panel Design Software for Electrical Engineers – Top Tools, Features, and Free Downloads
Motor Control Centers (MCC) are the backbone of industrial automation and power distribution. For electrical engineers, designing MCC panels requires precision, compliance with IEC standards, and optimization for efficiency and safety. Traditionally, this task was done manually with diagrams and spreadsheets, but today MCC Panel Design Software has revolutionized the way engineers approach design, costing, and documentation. These tools allow engineers to save time, improve accuracy, and meet project deadlines with confidence.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
In this article, we will explore the best MCC Panel Design Software available for electrical engineers. We will also cover their features, advantages, and even free download options where possible. This guide is written in simple, human-friendly language so engineers, consultants, and students can extract maximum value.
Key Takeaways:
- MCC Panel Design Software reduces design errors and speeds up project delivery.
- Top tools offer features like 3D visualization, cost estimation, load analysis, and compliance checks.
- Engineers can choose between paid professional tools and free versions for training or small projects.
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Why MCC Panel Design Software Matters for Electrical Engineers
Designing an MCC panel is not only about arranging circuit breakers, contactors, and relays. It is about ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with global standards like IEC 61439 and NEC guidelines. In industries such as oil & gas, cement, steel, and water treatment plants, MCC panels control large motors that are critical for production. A small design mistake can lead to downtime, fire hazards, or high maintenance costs.
This is why MCC Panel Design Software plays such an important role. It eliminates guesswork by automating calculations for short circuit ratings, busbar sizing, protection coordination, and cable selection. It also helps in preparing single line diagrams (SLDs), general arrangement drawings (GA), and bills of material (BOMs) in a professional manner.
Features to Look for in MCC Panel Design Software
Every engineer has different project needs. However, certain features are essential in any MCC Panel Design Software. Below are the most important:
- Load Management – Ability to calculate motor ratings, starting currents, and diversity factors.
- Compliance with Standards – Tools that follow IEC 61439, IEC 60204, or NEC standards.
- Drawing Automation – Auto-generation of single line diagrams, wiring diagrams, and layout drawings.
- 3D Visualization – Helps engineers visualize the physical arrangement of components inside the panel.
- Cost Estimation – Automatic generation of bills of materials with pricing.
- Fault Level Calculation – Short circuit analysis to ensure protection devices can handle fault energy.
- Customization – Ability to modify templates for different industries and projects.
These features not only improve design quality but also reduce rework and enhance collaboration between design engineers, procurement teams, and clients.
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Best MCC Panel Design Software – Top Tools in 2025
There are many software tools available for electrical engineers, but only a few specialize in MCC panel design. Below is a detailed review of the best ones available today.
1. EPLAN Electric P8
EPLAN Electric P8 is one of the most popular MCC Panel Design Software tools globally. It provides end-to-end solutions for electrical design, documentation, and automation. Engineers can design detailed circuit diagrams, generate terminal and connection lists, and ensure compliance with IEC standards. Its database-driven approach ensures accuracy across multiple project files.
Key benefits:
- Integrated single line and multi-line schematics.
- Automated BOM and wiring list generation.
- Compatibility with 3D panel design using EPLAN Pro Panel.
- Strong support for international standards.
2. AutoCAD Electrical
AutoCAD Electrical is widely used by electrical engineers for designing MCC panels. It combines the drafting capabilities of AutoCAD with specialized electrical tools. Engineers can easily create circuit diagrams, ladder diagrams, and panel layouts. AutoCAD Electrical also supports PLC integration, which is critical for MCC panels in automated plants.
Key benefits:
- Built-in symbol libraries for electrical components.
- Cross-referencing of contacts and coils.
- Automatic report generation (wiring lists, BOMs).
- Strong user community and support.
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3. Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Power Build – Rapsody
Schneider Electric provides EcoStruxure Power Build, also known as Rapsody, which is specifically designed for low voltage switchboards and MCC panel design. It helps in equipment selection, compliance validation, and optimized costing.
Key benefits:
- Specialized for MCC and LV panels.
- Integrated with Schneider Electric components.
- Easy compliance with IEC 61439.
- Accurate thermal and electrical calculations.
4. ETAP (Electrical Transient Analyzer Program)
ETAP is mainly known for power system analysis, but it also supports MCC panel design. Engineers can perform short circuit calculations, protection coordination, and load flow studies. ETAP ensures that MCC panels are not only designed physically but also optimized for system-level performance.
Key benefits:
- Strong in simulation and analysis.
- Integration of MCC with power system studies.
- Fault level and arc flash analysis.
- Widely used in critical industries.
5. Siemens SIMARIS Design
Siemens offers SIMARIS Design, which is powerful software for electrical distribution systems, including MCC panels. It allows engineers to calculate load flow, short circuits, and voltage drops while ensuring compliance with IEC standards.
Key benefits:
- Strong in distribution and MCC projects.
- Seamless integration with Siemens MCC products.
- Automatic documentation and BOM creation.
- Easy-to-use interface for beginners.
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6. SolidWorks Electrical
SolidWorks Electrical is a good option for engineers who want both 2D and 3D MCC panel design. It allows creation of electrical schematics and integration with SolidWorks 3D CAD for physical panel layouts.
Key benefits:
- Strong 3D visualization of MCC panels.
- Integration with mechanical design for panel enclosures.
- Auto-routing of wires and cables.
- Useful for cross-disciplinary projects.
7. Free MCC Panel Design Software Options
While most professional tools are paid, there are some free or open-source software options available for learning and small-scale projects. Examples include QElectroTech and TinyCAD. These may not provide full IEC compliance but are useful for training and academic purposes.
Comparison Table of MCC Panel Design Software
| Software | Best For | Key Strength | Compliance | Free/Paid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPLAN Electric P8 | Professional MCC design | Automation & Documentation | IEC/NEC | Paid |
| AutoCAD Electrical | Drafting + Electrical Design | Wide symbol library | IEC/ANSI | Paid |
| Schneider EcoStruxure | LV/MCC Panels | Component integration | IEC 61439 | Paid |
| ETAP | Simulation + MCC | Fault and arc flash analysis | IEC/IEEE | Paid |
| Siemens SIMARIS | Distribution + MCC | Load & fault calculation | IEC | Free/Paid (Lite version) |
| SolidWorks Electrical | 3D + 2D MCC Design | Visualization | IEC | Paid |
| QElectroTech | Learning | Free schematics | Limited | Free |
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How MCC Panel Design Software Improves Project Efficiency
The impact of MCC Panel Design Software is huge when compared to traditional methods. Engineers can reduce design time by up to 50% with automated diagrams and reports. Cost estimation becomes transparent, which helps in tendering and procurement. Moreover, compliance with IEC standards is easier because most tools have built-in validation.
For example, in a cement plant project, using Schneider EcoStruxure allowed engineers to design a 2000A MCC panel in less than two days, while manual design would have taken more than a week. Similarly, ETAP has helped oil & gas companies prevent failures by validating MCC panels against arc flash hazards.
Tips for Choosing the Right MCC Panel Design Software
When selecting MCC Panel Design Software, engineers should consider:
- Project Size – For large industrial projects, tools like EPLAN or ETAP are better.
- Budget – If cost is a concern, Siemens SIMARIS Lite or QElectroTech can be used.
- Industry – Oil & gas may need ETAP, while manufacturing may prefer EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical.
- Learning Curve – Some tools are beginner-friendly, others require training.
It is always wise to test trial versions before investing in a paid tool.
Free Downloads and Trial Versions
Many vendors provide free trial versions or student editions. For example:
- EPLAN offers a 30-day trial.
- Siemens SIMARIS has a free Lite version.
- SolidWorks Electrical offers student licenses.
- QElectroTech is fully open-source.
These free versions are excellent for practice, but professional projects often require licensed versions for full compliance and support.
Future of MCC Panel Design Software
With Industry 4.0 and digital twins becoming mainstream, the future of MCC panel design is moving toward cloud-based platforms and IoT integration. Software will not just design panels but also simulate their performance in real-time. Engineers can expect AI-driven recommendations for protection devices, energy optimization, and predictive maintenance.
Conclusion
MCC Panel Design Software is no longer optional; it is a necessity for modern electrical engineers. From drafting schematics to simulating fault levels, these tools improve efficiency, ensure safety, and enhance accuracy. Whether you are a student learning panel design or a professional handling large industrial projects, choosing the right software makes a huge difference.
The best MCC Panel Design Software tools include EPLAN Electric P8, AutoCAD Electrical, Schneider EcoStruxure, ETAP, Siemens SIMARIS, and SolidWorks Electrical. Free options like QElectroTech are also available for beginners. Each tool has unique strengths, and the choice depends on project requirements, budget, and industry standards.
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