Disconnect Switches

Disconnect switches and circuits protect motors and electrical equipment during power failures or surges

By Deneatra Harmon

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.

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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.

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.

Disconnect Switches