A disconnector is a switch that cuts off power to electrical circuits for safety during maintenance or emergencies. It is used in power distribution, commercial activities, and homes. Lockout systems are recommended, and switches must be rated for their application.
A disconnector is a switch that has the ability to cut off power to an electrical circuit or group of electrical circuits. Switch disconnectors are used in a wide variety of settings and are primarily employed as safety devices that shut off circuits so people can work on them safely. Electrical safety devices are only as useful as their maintenance and surrounding safety procedures, and a disconnect must be used correctly to be effective.
A common example of a setting where such breakers are used is in power distribution. A disconnector can be used to manage the distribution network, move loads across the network, shut off power during maintenance, and shut down an area of the network in the event of a safety hazard. A disconnect switch is usually used with a lockout tagout system, where the switch is locked out after it is triggered so it can’t be accidentally turned back on, and tagged so people know who locked out the switch, why and when.
Many electrical systems for structures and commercial activities are also equipped with a disconnector. In this case, the switch can be used to interrupt power in an emergency, to shut down to switch to another power mode, and to shut down the system for maintenance. Again, lockouts are strongly recommended so people don’t re-introduce power to the loop at an inopportune time. For something like a home electrical system, a lockout system might be as simple as a tape holding the switch in the off position and a note explaining what’s going on.
The switches are designed to be operated manually in most cases. Some may require a key or similar safety device to confirm that a user really wants to activate the switch. Other systems are used to deal with security issues, such as occurs when a power surge poses a security threat and the system shuts down automatically. In these cases, people often have to wait for a system reset before they can turn back on.
Numerous companies manufacture disconnectors for numerous applications. When installing a disconnect switch, it is important to confirm that it is rated for the application in which it will be used. If the switch does not meet the rating requirements, it may pose a security risk because it may not be able to adequately handle your power management needs.
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