JBD...thanx for the input...the tip about more room for conduit entries with a panelboard is something I will consider in my decision on whether to use a load center or panelboard.
I have seen a load center fail where the breaker plugs into the bus many times...melted breakers didn't make a good connection to the panel bus.I've seen mains burn out in ITE load centers that were just plug in design...now the mains come bolted in.
I think I feel more comfortable with a panelboard with bolt in breakers because of the heavier loads in a commercial installation.
shortcircuit
