Disconnect switches are safety switches that rapidly disconnect an electrical circuit from power supplies during an emergency. Disconnect switches work with circuit breakers to interrupt power sources in the event of a circuit overload. You can use different disconnect switches, such as fusible/non-fusible, battery or electrical disconnect types, depending on your application requirements. You can install disconnect switches as safety measures at your office or home.

This guide covers some of the common terms about disconnect switches.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Zero Energy State

Zero energy state or zero-point energy is the lowest possible energy that a mechanical physical system may have. A system is in zero energy state when no potential energy exists. The system is then secure enough for employees to work.

I recommend: For technical information on zero energy state, you can refer to All About Circuits, an informative website about electrical products.

Fused or Non-Fused Disconnect Switches

Fusible disconnect switches support the installation of fuses and provide a greater degree of protection. On the other hand, non-fusible switches do not have any circuit protection capability.

I recommend: Siemens Energy and Automation (PDF), a solution provider to the electrical industry, publishes detailed information on fused and non-fused disconnect switches.

Battery Disconnect Switches

A battery disconnect switch is a two directional switch that enables (or disables) the current flow between a battery and battery charger.

I recommend: You can read through a technical article on battery disconnect switches at The MG Experience (PDF), an online information resource. Additionally, you can refer to GlobalSpec for more information on battery disconnect switches.

Arc Fault Disconnect Switches

An arc fault disconnect switch prevents fire by detecting non-working electrical arcs and disconnecting the power before the arc starts a fire.

I recommend: Arc fault Circuit Breakers publishes technical information on arc fault disconnect switches and their applications.

Circuit Breakers

A circuit breaker breaks the circuit and stops the current flow when the current exceeds a predetermined value. A circuit breaker trips to break the circuit and can be reset, whereas, a fuse melts and needs a replacement.

I recommend: Maintenance Resources, an online monthly magazine, publishes detailed information on circuit breakers and their applications.

Enclosed Disconnect Switches

Enclosed disconnect switches have thermoplastic coverings that shield the switches from moisture or corrosion. An enclosed switch also provides protection against incidental contact with live electrical equipment. It also provides protection to the switch itself against other specific environmental conditions.

I recommend: Legacy Automation, Power & Design (PDF), a supplier of electrical power and control products, provides information about enclosed disconnect switches, their types and their application.

Magnetic Disconnect Switches

You can use magnetic disconnect switches to disconnect the magnetic circuit arc.

I recommend: Refer to the glossary by the American Crane and Equipment Corporation (ACECO) for the definition of the term ‘magnetic disconnect switches’.

Disconnect switches are valuable safety features to install inside the office or facility. These round or block-shaped devices, which are available in different sizes, automatically shut off power supplies during an emergency. Disconnection switches also work with circuit breakers to disrupt power sources in the event of a circuit overload. Electricity providers or electric cooperative services commonly feature disconnect switches on equipment such as generators or electrical motors. A generator disconnect switch protects electric utility workers from being electrocuted while restoring power.

A disconnect switch works on a battery or wired. Battery disconnect switches are installed on vehicle batteries to prevent power drainage. Some battery disconnect switches feature knobs to deter car thefts. Agricultural equipment, tractors and industrial forklifts use electric disconnection switches, as well as air conditioners and heaters. Additionally, disconnect switches are fusible, non-fusible and enclosed fusible and non-fusible. A fusible disconnect switch handles low-voltage equipment, while a non-fusible disconnect switch endures high-powered applications. Enclosed fusible and non-fusible disconnect switches have thermoplastic coverings that shield from moisture or corrosion.

1. Choose from a wide variety of disconnect switches.

2. Buy accessories that help operate disconnect switches.

3. Find a disconnection switch that is relevant to your current applications.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Manufacturers should offer a variety of disconnect switches

Common types of disconnection switches include enclosed fused and non-fused, battery fused and electrical non-fused Any one location may require several types or sizes of disconnect switches.

I recommend: Ferraz Shawmut manufactures low- and high-voltage fused, non-fused and enclosed disconnect switches. Leviton also provides waterproof and industrial-grade safety disconnect switches.

Buy accessories that can protect disconnection switches from damages

Remember to get disconnect switch components such as cover plates, handles, ground kits and extensions.

I recommend: Altech features shafts, handles, cover plates and extensions for foot and motor disconnect switches. Boltswitch offers cover kits for its disconnect switches.

Find disconnect switches suitable for certain applications

Shop for disconnect switches suitable for residential, commercial, electrical or industrial uses. Electric motors, industrial vehicles and appliances can work with disconnection switches.

I recommend: GC Electronics produces disconnection switches for commercial, electrical and industrial equipment. Wisconsin Oven's disconnect switches shut off power to equipment such as ovens and furnaces. Electro-Matic Products distributes disconnect switches for industries ranging from automotive to mining to semiconductors.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Battery disconnect switches should meet industrial, environmental and technical standards. They are rated by such groups as the International Organization for Standardization and the Aerospace Basic Quality System. Power for disconnect switches range from 16 to 1,200 amperes.
• •  Electrical disconnect switches must also meet high-quality standards. Most electrical disconnection switches are rated by the International Electrotechnical Commission and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. Fused and non-fused disconnect switches also meet Underwriters Laboratories' safety standards.

If you want to use disconnect switches for your electrical power systems, you must have adequate knowledge about different types of disconnect switches and their applications. If you want to enter the business of disconnect switches, it is beneficial to understand the basics of disconnect switches and the relevant technology.
For disconnect switches suppliers, it is always beneficial to update your knowledge about the various types of disconnect switches. to In order to stay ahead of the competition, education and training is important for distributors of disconnect switches.

Some important points that you must consider before searching for resources for disconnect switches education and training are:

1. Browse through various resources that provide basic information about disconnect switches
2. Join training programs on disconnect switches
3. Read through magazines and journals
   
4. Understand the safety procedures associated with disconnect switches
5. Seek an expert’s advice in case of any doubts or queries regarding disconnect switches

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Understand the basics of disconnect switches and the relevant terminology

If you have very little exposure to disconnect switches, you can find basic information about them by browsing through different online resources. Some reputable data publishing companies also provide disconnect switches education and training.

I recommend: electronics-manufacturer, a business portal for manufacturers of disconnect switches, provides basic information about disconnect switches and their types. In addition, you can also refer to GlobalSpec, an online information resource that gives you a brief introduction about disconnect switches and their technical specifications.

Search for courses that cover disconnect switches in the curriculum

Some institutions and associations offer electrical fundamentals courses that cover disconnect switches education and training. You can also search for customized courses if you want to establish yourself as a manufacturer of disconnect switches.

I recommend: American Council on Education (ACE), an online guide, offers a course called "Electric Power System Operations" that covers disconnect switches in detail. To acquire detailed information about disconnect switches and their maintenance issues, you can also join a certificate course called "Electrical Safety Training," by Martin Technical.

Understand the maintenance procedures and safety measures for disconnect switches

The maintenance of disconnect switches is very important, as failure of disconnect switches can be harmful to your electrical power system. Therefore, disconnect switches education and training can help you understand necessary maintenance procedures and safety measures related to disconnect switches.

I recommend: All About Circuits publishes information that includes the importance of electrical safety and safe practices. Construction Safety Magazine, an Electrical Trade Safety Advisory publication, explains safety precautions that you need to follow while working with disconnect switches.

Disconnect switches provide a safe way to interrupt overloaded power supplies or electrical operations that shut down during emergencies. Depending on whether they are fusible, non-fusible or enclosed, disconnect switches work compatibly with circuit breakers. Disconnection switches can also work in conjunction with AC and DC power sources, as well as single-phase and three-phase power systems.

Common disconnect switches applications and uses apply to industrial forklifts, agricultural vehicles or machinery and electric motors. Contractors require the use of disconnect switches to protect them from power surges and electrical shocks when working on appliances. In this case, the function of the disconnect switch closes or opens circuits and electrical systems to isolate the power. Before shopping with manufacturers for disconnection switches and supplies:

1. Determine your overall disconnect switches applications and uses, depending on your business or professional field.

2. Find disconnection switch manufacturers that can supply the tools you need to protect your electrical system.

3. Use services and technical support to install, maintain and repair disconnection switches.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Discover the many uses and applications of disconnect switches

Disconnect switches applications and uses are dominant in industrial, agricultural, mechanical and electrical settings. Literature on disconnect switches applications and uses is also available.

I recommend: Ferraz Shawmut produces disconnection switches for use with circuit, aircraft and automotive applications. Industrial Controls Supply distributes disconnect switches for automation and control equipment. Find disconnect switches and more electrical circuit equipment for applications that include consumer goods, infrastructure, materials handling and semiconductors at Rockwell Automation. Find general and technical information about disconnection switches in General Electric's publication library.

Locate disconnection switch manufacturers for your equipment needs

Manufacturers and vendors of residential, commercial and industrial products usually stock disconnection switches. Also consult their websites for user manuals.

I recommend: Powertech Controls supplies disconnection switches and other types of circuit protection equipment from a variety of manufacturers. Kraus & Naimer supplies different disconnect switch models. Boltswitch also supplies heavy-duty and isolation-style disconnection switches. Curtis Instruments provides specification and data sheets, and user manuals for disconnection switches.

Find services for disconnect switches and equipment

Some manufacturers also provide repair services to maintain the quality of disconnect switches. They also provide replacement parts when necessary.

I recommend: Ohio Semitronics provides services for voltage and current disconnect switches. Diversified Electric Services provides on-site emergency maintenance for equipment that includes disconnection switches. Disconnection switch distributor Industrial Equipment Recovery performs services such as equipment testing and repair. Eaton offers services and support for disconnect switches and other electrical devices.