DC Isolators: What they are | How they work | Applications

 


What are DC Switch-Disconnectors?

DC Switch-Disconnectors can be used to break direct currents (DC) so circuits can be safely isolated for maintenance work.

What applications can they be used for?

They are ideal for solar panels used in solar farms, with solar panels becoming an increasingly popular way to generate energy due to their sustainable qualities.

DC Switch-Disconnectors are vital to solar panels.

Solar panels are made up of semiconductor cells which absorb photon energy and generate direct current, powering the panels. The direct current is more difficult to interrupt compared to alternating current (AC), as the direct current has no natural zero points.

The switch uses polyamide glass filled material, having excellent track resistance (CTI) for Insulation to prevent flashover even in the most severe conditions.

What are the key features and benefits of Europa DC Switch-Disconnectors?
 

Key Features & Benefits

  • Multiple cable entry options – 2x M25 threaded holes for cable gland access on top and bottom + 2 drill out options on rear of case.
  • Basic construction and special content design of the switch makes it safe and highly reliable to withstand high short circuit currents.
  • Finger protection
  • Compact design contributes to the easy installation and operational convenience
  • Wiping contacts
  • Excellent switching and high short circuit capacity
  • Switch rear mounted for easy connection


The Europa DC Switch achieves ultra-rapid switching through a ‘Snap Action’, spring driven, operating mechanism. When the front actuator is rotated energy is accumulated in the mechanism until a point is reached at which the contacts are fired open or closed. This system will operate the switch under load within 5ms thereby reducing the arcing time to a minimum.

To reduce the chances of an arc propagating, the switch employs rotary contact technology. This is designed to make and break the circuit through a revolving double break contact assembly that wipes as it moves. The wiping action has the added advantage of keeping the contact faces clean thereby reducing the resistance and increasing the life of the switch.

DC Switch-Disconnectors provide a safe way to disconnect the currents, allowing you to isolate power for safe maintenance and repair that is vital for prolonging the health of your installations that will reduce downtime and additional costs.

 Europa DC Switch-Disconnectors come padlockable in the OFF position for added security. With multiple entry cables, finger protection and wiping contacts, our DC Switch-Disconnectors are easy to install and comply with the latest specification for modern low voltage devices. EN60947-3

ExceptionalValue

Many competitor products are rated at 600/800VDC which means that our LBDC164P (20A @ 1000VDC / 16A @1500VDC) offers exceptional value, especially as they are more suitable for double string installs where the voltage is spread across two strings, saving contractors time and money.

Where can I purchase a Europa DC Switch-Disconnector?
Our DC Switch-Disconnectors are in stock to order from our website with next day delivery available on orders made by 4pm.

Full technical support available for help selecting the correct device – technical@europa-plc.com

Browse the full range

 

Related Articles


Cookie Preferences

Our website uses cookies delivered by us and by third parties. Some cookies are necessary for the website’s operation, others enable us to understand the performance of our website, provide you with social media features, and deliver a better experience with relevant content and advertising. You may accept them all or set your preferences below. These preferences will reset every 30 days.

Select the options you would like to use


Essential Cookies

Essential cookies are required to help make a website usable by enabling basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website. The website cannot function properly without these cookies.

Statistic Cookies

Statistic cookies help us to understand how visitors interact with our website by collecting and reporting information anonymously such at the number of visits. If you don’t accept them, we won’t be able to improve your experience based on data from your visit.

Marketing Cookies

Europa and third-party cookies are used to track visitors across websites and social media. They help us to deliver marketing campaigns by displaying ads that are tailored to you. If you do not accept them, you will still see online ads, but they will be less relevant.