Disconnector & Switches

FAQ Solar Disconnector & Switches

What is a solar disconnector?

A solar disconnector, also known as a solar DC isolator or solar DC switch, is an electrical device used in solar power systems to disconnect the direct current (DC) power generated by solar panels from the rest of the system. It provides a means to safely interrupt the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the inverter or charge controller, typically for maintenance, troubleshooting, or safety purposes.

Solar disconnectors are typically installed between the solar panels and the other components of the solar power system. They are designed to handle the DC voltage and current generated by the solar panels, and they provide a reliable means of isolating the solar panels from the rest of the system when needed. This allows for safe work on the system, such as installation, repair, or maintenance, without the risk of electrical shock or damage to the equipment.

Solar disconnectors often have a visible and easily accessible switch or lever that can be used to manually open or close the circuit, allowing for easy disconnection or reconnection of the solar panels. Some solar disconnectors also have additional safety features, such as lockable handles or enclosures to prevent unauthorized access.

It’s important to choose a high-quality solar disconnector that complies with relevant safety standards and regulations, and to have it installed by a qualified professional to ensure the safe and reliable operation of your solar power system. Proper use of a solar disconnector can help protect against electrical hazards and ensure the safety of personnel working on or around the solar power system.

Solar DC disconnect

A solar DC disconnect, also known as a solar DC isolator or solar DC switch, is an electrical device used in solar power systems to provide a means of disconnecting the direct current (DC) power generated by solar panels from the rest of the system. It is typically installed between the solar panels and the inverter or charge controller, and it allows for safe disconnection of the solar panels from the system for maintenance, troubleshooting, or safety purposes. Check the most used DC switch by our solar installers and resellers Kraus & Naimer.

Solar AC disconnect

A solar AC disconnect, also known as a solar AC isolator or solar AC switch, is an electrical device used in solar power systems to provide a means of disconnecting the alternating current (AC) power generated by the inverter from the rest of the system. It is typically installed between the inverter and the utility grid, and it allows for safe disconnection of the AC power from the system for maintenance, troubleshooting, or safety purposes.

In some cases, solar AC disconnects may also be used as a means of emergency shutdown, allowing for quick and easy disconnection of the AC power in case of a system malfunction, fire, or other emergency situations.

It’s important to choose a high-quality solar AC disconnect that is compatible with the specifications and requirements of your solar power system, and to have it installed by a qualified professional to ensure proper operation and safety.

What is a solar switch?

A solar switch is an electrical device used in solar power systems to manually control the flow of electricity from solar panels, batteries, or inverters to different loads or appliances. It provides a means to turn on or off the power from solar sources, batteries, or inverters within the system, allowing for selective control of electricity flow for various purposes.

Solar switches are typically used for safety, control, or convenience purposes in solar power systems. They can be used to isolate specific parts of the system for maintenance, troubleshooting, or repair. They can also be used to control the flow of electricity to different loads or appliances, allowing for selective use of solar power based on the needs of the system or the preferences of the user.

Solar switches can come in various forms, such as manual switches, automatic switches, or remote switches, depending on the design and configuration of the solar power system. They may be installed at different points in the system, such as between solar panels and the charge controller or inverter, between batteries and loads, or between inverters and loads.

Some common types of solar switches include:

1. Manual switches: These are simple switches that can be manually operated to turn on or off the flow of electricity from solar panels, batteries, or inverters. They are typically installed in a visible and accessible location, allowing for easy manual control of the electricity flow.
2. Automatic switches: These switches are designed to automatically control the flow of electricity based on certain conditions, such as the battery voltage, solar irradiation levels, or time of day. They may use sensors, timers, or other control mechanisms to automatically turn on or off the power from solar sources, batteries, or inverters, based on predetermined settings.
3. Remote switches: These switches allow for remote control of the electricity flow from solar sources, batteries, or inverters. They may be operated using remote controls, keypads, or other control devices, allowing for convenient control of the system from a distance.

It’s important to choose a solar switch that is compatible with the specifications and requirements of your solar power system, and to have it installed by a qualified professional to ensure proper operation and safety. Solar switches can provide flexibility, convenience, and control in the operation of a solar power system, allowing for efficient and customized use of solar electricity.

How to size a solar disconnect?

The disconnect amperage must be higher than the amperage of your circuit. For example, if you have a 20-amp circuit, you need a 30-amp disconnect. If you have a 40, you need a 60, etc. Be careful.

Sizing example of disconnect switches applications in solar photovoltaic systems

Assume that a disconnect switch must be chosen to provide means for disconnecting an inverter from its source. The supplying solar PV array consists of 20 parallel-connected PV-strings. Each string consists of 30 series-connected PV-modules, each of them having a maximum Voc of 28.4 VDC and an Isc rating of 7.92 A. The highest inverter power output is obtained at the maximum power point, which occurs with approximately

146 A (IMPP) at the inverter input.

The Voc determines the minimum voltage rating of the disconnect switch:

30 × 28.4 V = 852 V.

Selecting a disconnect switch with a Vi and Ve of 1000 V DC would give a safety margin greater than 15%.

The sum of ISC parallel-connected strings determines the current-capability requirements for the switch. The sum of ISC gives:

20 × 7.92 A = 158.4 A.

At a minimum, electrical standard requires this value to increase by 125% (or 158.4 x 1.25 = 198A) to address increased currents during solar noon.

If the ambient temperature at the installation site may rise, e.g., up to 60 °C, a temperature-derating factor must be taken into account. For 60 °C the factor is 0.80, calculated as described earlier. Applying the factor by dividing the maximum power-point current by the factor tells us how the disconnect switch should be rated under normal conditions: 146 A / 0.80 = 182.5 A. The calculations have now given us a picture of the requirements for the disconnect switch and can be used to properly select a disconnect switch for a given PV application.

What is the 125% rule electrical?

The general rule is that conductors are sized to have an ampacity of not less than the noncontinuous load plus 125 percent of the continuous load.

Learn more about the solar power inverter models we sell.