Finder has announced the introduction of the 13.81 electronic step relay, which is designed for the pushbutton control of lighting. This step relay is particularly suited to complex multi-point installations.

The desire for more sophisticated and flexible control of lighting, coupled with the need to reduce material and installation costs, is influencing consultants, designers and installers of lighting control systems to consider using electronic relays, especially for applications where quieter operation than that of conventional electromechanical step relays is desired. They will be able to use the 13.81 electronic step relay in locations that have multiple entry points, or in large areas where a number of switching positions are required for the control of lighting. The unit will be of particular interest to lighting designers who wish to achieve easy central control of multiple light fittings.

The 13.81 allows the connection of up to 15 illuminated push buttons, to enable multiple switching points to be served with a minimum of wiring, and is capable of switching up to 3kW of incandescent or halogen lamp loads. Indirect control of lighting – isolated from the AC mains – means that lighter gauge wiring can be used between pushbutton and relay, while electronic operation is much quieter than conventional electromechanical switching and offers a longer life. The cable run between the pushbuttons and the relay can be up to 200m in length, providing flexibility of mounting location, especially in large areas such as warehouses and factories.

The 13.81 is housed in a compact 17.5mm wide enclosure for 35mm DIN rail mounting, and is suitable for consumer units.

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Finder has announced the launch of the 97.11 and 97.12 sockets for PCB mounting of its 46 series miniature industrial relays. These sockets allow engineers designing power control equipment to mount a plug-in power relay with robust terminals in a simple manner onto a PCB. They are particularly suitable for circuit boards where the ability to change power relays quickly is essential for maintenance and the minimising of downtime in the event of a fault.

There is a growing trend towards the use of PCBs in power control applications, but engineers wish to maintain the benefit of rapid component replacement that they enjoy with traditional plug-in rail mounted components – this is the need addressed by these new additions to the 97 Series of sockets.

The 97.11 and 97.12 sockets have a small 12.4mm x 32mm footprint, minimising board space requirements, and maintain the full 6kV coil-to-contact isolation specification of the relay. An integral retaining clip ensures that the relay is firmly retained when used in applications where they may be subject to shock or vibration, and the sockets carry C UR approval for the US.

The 46 Series relays, which fit the sockets, includes both single-pole and two-pole contact configurations for use in control panels and systems. The relays are fully terminal-compatible with the de-facto industry standard, with Faston spade/blade terminals that provide secure and reliable connections between the relay and the 97 Series socket.

The new sockets complete the line up of 46 series relay mounting options that already include a range of 35mm rail mounting sockets – the 97.01 and 97.02 screw connection models and the 97.51 and 97.52 screwless connection versions – as well as flange-mounting and direct-rail mounting adaptors that allow the use of either Faston or soldered connection to the relay terminals. All the 97 Series rail mounting sockets will accept the full range of 99.02 coil indication and suppression modules and the 86.30 bi-function, multi-range timer modules.

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Finder has announced the launch of the 93.21 series multifunction timer socket, for use with the 34 series electromechanical and solid-state relays. The sockets are aimed at panel builders, systems integrators, OEMs and installers of control systems for machines and processes, and also for applications in building management systems (BMS). They are particularly suitable for use where space constraints are a major consideration, or where rapid output switching and long operational life are required.

The ultra slim sockets are only 6.2mm in width, making them ideal for use in systems where the available mounting space is minimal. Their multifunction and multirange capabilities, along with the ability to accept either plug-in electromechanical or plug-in solid-state relays, means that a single socket model is suitable for a wide range of applications, with the added benefit that the switching element is easily replaceable.

The timer sockets feature 4 time ranges with intervals ranging from 0.1 – 3s up to 0.3 – 6 hours, and 4 selectable timing functions – ON delay; ON pulse; Symmetrical recycling with ON start; and fixed pulse delayed. Precision of regulation over the entire scale is specified as ±5%, and maximum switching capacity is 6A.

The 93 series timer sockets operate at a DC or AC supply voltage in the range 12 – 24V. Both screw and screwless termination options are available for flexibility in integrating with both types of wiring system, and a tamper proof setting mechanism avoids accidental maladjustment. The sockets can be used with 20 way jumper bars, which helps to save time in wiring common connections.

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Finder has announced the introduction of the 41.81 series of solid-state relays, which offer silent, high-speed switching of AC or DC loads, to meet the need for relays that operate reliably at rapid machine cycle rates, with minimum maintenance and without incurring mechanical wear.

The 41.81 series is aimed at designers and system integrators of automation and processing equipment, including mechanical handling, assembly and filling machines, and will be particularly suited to applications requiring high operating speed and long electrical life, especially those where silent operation is also desirable.

The solid-state relays are available in AC and DC output switching types. Type 41.81-9024 switches 1.5V to 35V DC, nominally 24V, at current levels up to 5A. Type 41.81-8240 switches 240V AC nominal (12 – 275V max.) at 3A, and features zero crossing switching to minimise electrical interference. Both models feature a low power 0.2W coil. Maximum peak current is rated at 120A for a period of 10ms, making the relays suitable for use with high inrush inductive or capacitive loads.

The relays are housed in a small, low profile, wash-tight RT111 package with an industry standard pin layout. The package offers flexibility in mounting options: it is suitable for mounting either directly onto a PCB or into a 93 series socket, which in turn can either be fixed to a PCB or mounted onto a 35mm DIN rail.

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Finder announces a new generation of its 14 Series electronic staircase timers, which have been designed for energy saving control of lighting in areas of temporary occupation. The latest models feature microprocessor control, and are targeted at lighting applications in stairwells, corridors, washrooms, storerooms and similar areas that only require illumination for short periods of time.

Designers, contractors and installers of lighting in commercial and residential property are continually looking for ways to reduce energy consumption by eliminating wasteful lighting in unoccupied areas, while addressing the growing need to illuminate more public areas for security and safety reasons in an economical way. Staircase timers such as the 14 series offer a cost-effective solution that is simple to implement even in small installations.

The 14.01 timer is a multi-function unit, while the 14.71 is a single function version. Both models have an on period that is adjustable between 30s and 20 minutes, so that a single timer is suitable for wide range of installations. This flexibility of operation means that specification is simplified and inventory levels can be kept to a minimum. A further single function model, 14.81, offers wiring compatibility with earlier mechanical models.

All the new timers feature zero-crossing load switching, which enables the switching of higher lamp loads and also offers the benefits of longer lamp and unit life and reduced RF interference. A switch-off early warning function on the 14.01 gives a user who is still in the area time to re-activate the timer before the light is turned off.

Multi-function features on the 14.01, accessed via a simple rotary function selector, include timed control with or without manual override, early warning, standard on/off, permanent on and maintenance function with extended 60 minute on time.

Each timer can be used with up to 30 illuminated pushbutton actuators, offering local control over a wide area and thus giving the user maximum opportunity to re-activate the timer before being plunged into darkness: this enhances safety, and is especially beneficial in stairwells.

All the 14 Series timers are housed in a 35mm rail mounting enclosure that is 17.5mm wide, and have a timing adjustment suitable for standard consumer unit.

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Finder has announced an update to its 80 series timers, which now provide improvements in functionality, multiple supply voltages, a wide choice of time ranges and greater ease of use.

The 80 series timers find uses in applications that include process timing, material handling, access technology, and industrial equipment such as elevators, environmental, washing and shot blasting equipment. Additionally they are used by OEMS for functional timing in mobile, portable and battery powered equipment and testers.

In the latest version of the 80 series timers, the range and function selectors, the timing trimmer and the rail mounting clip have all been modified to accept either cross head or flat blade screwdrivers, allowing for easier setting and mounting. Snap-on marker tags are now mounted on the front of the timers, which can be sheet printed automatically for speed and clarity. The start signal can now also switch a separate load, giving the possibility of reducing the need for additional components

The time range scale can now be changed without the need to remove the power supply, allowing greater flexibility for timing adjustment without any disruption of the circuit.

The 80 series timers are housed in compact packages measuring only 17.5mm wide by 57mm high. All timers in the range are now multi-voltage, which means that fewer variants need to be stocked. The timers run from either 12V to 240V AC or DC – for the multi function and recycler versions – or 24V to 240V AC/DC for all other variants. The 12V to 240V type is suitable for use in battery-powered systems.

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Finder has announced an update to its 56 series relays, which now provide enhanced functionality during installation and test.

The updated series of 2-pole and 4-pole power relays feature as standard on all models a test button and mechanical indicator for manual operation during test and commissioning. The full range now offers as options an indicator LED to show operational status; in particular the DC coil versions feature twin LEDs, making them insensitive to polarity. All of the models feature a new printed front plate showing the full part number, contact rating and coil voltage, and both the new pushbutton and the coil housing are colour-coded for rapid visual identification of AC or DC models.

The six models in the 56 series provide the capability of switching higher current loads with the option of up to four changeover contacts. They are typically used by OEMs, panel builders and end users in applications including the switching of single phase motors, solenoid operation with feedback monitoring signals, multi-element heating loads and various types of lighting. The provision of plug-in, PCB and an extended range of rail and flange-mounting options and adaptors, along with a complementary range of sockets, suppression modules and accessories, allows maximum flexibility of both mounting and connection.

Standard contact material is cadmium-free, but alternative contact materials are on offer to suit inductive or capacitive loads.

The relays are rated as standard at up to 12A at 250V AC with maximum peak values of 20A and 400V AC. A 400V AC coil version is also available for use in industrial applications where a neutral connection is not available.

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Finder has announced the launch of a new series of safety relays that have been specifically designed to meet the increasingly stringent safety standards now being imposed on designers and manufacturers of electrical systems. They are particularly suited to applications such as plant, process and machine guarding, safety circuits, emergency stop circuits and critical monitoring circuits.

The 50 Series relays are pin-compatible with the existing 40 Series, and feature forcibly guided contacts that enable positive monitoring of the contact state to comply with EN 50205 type B. They have also been designed to meet the requirements of IEC 62061 (2005): Safety of machinery – Functional safety of safety-related electrical, electronic and programmable electronic control systems, and ISO 13849-1: Safety of machinery – Safety-related parts of machinery.  A high physical separation ensures a minimum of 2.5kV insulation between adjacent contacts

The relays are rated for a maximum contact current of 8A and for DC coil voltages ranging from 5V to 125V, thus providing considerable flexibility for circuit designers.

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New to the Finder range of energy consumption meters is the three-phase 7E.36 Series, which includes single and dual-tariff kWh models for the measurement, recording and display of power consumption in individual sub-circuits at current levels up to 65A.

The meters are particularly applicable where there is a statutory need for compliance with the EU Measuring Instrument Directive (MID) 2004/22/EG which comes into force in October 2006. The current pressure to reduce energy consumption is also driving the need for accurate monitoring and measurement in specific areas.

The 7E.36 Series meters provide a compact, accurate and easily-installed solution to metering three-phase energy consumption, and are ideally suited for use by manufacturers and installers of machinery and equipment, control systems manufacturers, contractors, site service engineers and designers of building management systems (BMS). Typical areas of use include industrial and commercial installations, test cells, machines, control cabinets and switchboards.

Type 7E.36.8.400.0000 is a single-tariff 3-phase meter, and Type 7E.36.8.400.0002 is a dual-tariff version for use with standard and economy tariff supplies. Both meters are specified for a maximum current rating of 65A, and are housed in a compact 70mm wide enclosure that can be surface mounted or fitted to a 35mm DIN rail, allowing them to be installed in confined spaces or mounted on standard sub distribution boards.

The meters feature 4mm high, 7-digit display(s) including a red decimal digit, to provide an easy-to-read display with a maximum totalising count of 999,999.9kWh. A high resolution pulsed open-collector output to DIN 43864 provides a link to BMS or other types of remote monitoring system. A variable rate pulsed red LED indicator offers a rapid visual indication when abnormal operation is occurring, for example due to phase loss or inversion. Terminal covers are also available to enable a tamper-proof seal to be fitted.

The 7E.36 Series is compliant with EN 62053-21 and prEN 50470 as well as with the EU MID 2004/22/EG, and is certified by PTB (Physikalisch-Technischen Bundesanstalt). Accuracy is specified to Class B and protection to Class II.

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The 4C Series is a new series of single-pole and two-pole relay interface modules from Finder that incorporate Finder’s flagship 46 Series miniature industrial relays, and are available in either screw terminal or screwless socket types. The modules provide an ideal interface between programmable logic controllers (PLC) or other electronic controllers and external actuators or switching devices, where outputs are required to switch higher than normal external loads such as large contactors, solenoids, small motors or heating elements.

The 4C.01 and 4C.02 are respectively a single-pole 16A and a two-pole 8A relay interface module, both with screw terminal connections, while the 4C.51 is a screwless single-pole model rated as 10A and the 4C.52 is an 8A two-pole screwless version. All four models are available with either AC or DC coils, and can be mounted on a 35mm DIN rail (EN 50022). They feature instant ejection of the relay from the socket by means of a plastic retaining clip, and include as standard both a supply status indication and coil suppression module.

An 8-way jumper link is available as an optional extra for use with the 4C.01 and 4C.02 modules, and reduces the time taken to wire common connections.

The 4C.01 and 4C.02 screw-type terminal modules both measure 82.9mm long x 64.6mm high x 15.8 mm wide, while the screwless 4C.51 and 4C.52 versions both measure 95.6mm long x 61.7 mm high x 15.8 mm wide. The cadmium-free relay contacts are fabricated from silver nickel (AgNi) material.

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