ABB has introduced a new line of switches, ranging from 100 to 360 Amperes, specifically designed for solar photovoltaic applications.
According to the company, the two-pole disconnect switches have achieved a 1000 VDC rating per UL 98B. The two-pole configuration is designed for use in combiner boxes for disconnecting individual arrays and at the inverter input for disconnecting the inverter from the DC side. UL 98B covers enclosed and dead-front switches rated up to 1000 VDC, intended for use in DC photovoltaic systems.
Additional features of the new 1000 VDC switch family include the following:
Bi-polarity operation. Break both the positive and negative lines at the same time or utilize pre-configured versions with two poles wired in a series to break just the positive or negative line.
Integrated heat sink. Pre-configured versions with two poles wired in a series utilize a custom-designed jumper with an integrated heat sink.
Modular design. The new switch is available with the mechanism mounted between the poles or to either side of the poles. A four-pole version is available for double-circuit applications, allowing the breaking of two separate PV strings with a single switch.
Visible blade technology. The switch features visible contacts, providing safe and reliable operation.