E-T-A Circuit Breakers, quality designer and manufacturer of a broad range of electro-mechanical and electronic products for circuit protection, has introduced a new, simplified, low-cost, decentralised electrical power distribution system, each module offering up to 10 outputs rated up to 8A/10A per channel. E-T-A PowerPlex Compact provides localised monitoring, control and reliable protection of safety-critical electrical circuits, at the same time offering reduced cabling costs and build time. Communication with the PowerPlex modules is via CAN-bus using SAE J1939 based protocols. Each localised module will handle up to 60A, providing programmable control based on up to 12 digital and 3 analogue inputs as well as programmable overload protection.
Currently available as a 12V DC version, E-T-A PowerPlex Compact is straightforward to install and can be used for applications such as battery monitoring of split charging circuits, undervoltage monitoring and control, remote operations based on level and flow sensors, responding to limit switches in tail lifts, dimming of lights and for timed controls. It will switch loads and protect them and the electrical harness against overcurrent and short circuits. Featuring high-end power semiconductors with integral protective elements for switching and protection, there are no mechanical components such as relays which may be subject to wear, vibration and shock.
One or more PowerPlex modules are positioned as required around a vehicle to facilitate the local connection of loads, switches and sensors. Each module can collect sensor data from level and temperature sensors, for example. E-T-A PowerPlex is an open system featuring two CAN-bus communication channels which enable control via an E-T-
A touch panel or keypad(s), if required, to enable load switching, and monitoring and display of data from analogue and digital sensors.
The initial programming of each module via a cable linked PC is straightforward, using configuration software supplied with the product. It enables, for example, the linking of inputs and outputs, programming of timer functions and activation of dimmers. The current ratings for overcurrent protection of the load circuits and time characteristics can also be programmed.
.
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
UP1 Undervoltage Release Switch for Operators Safety
The new UP1 undervoltage switch monitors the supply voltage and actuates a trip release when there is an intense drop in voltage or when the supply voltage is interrupted. As soon as the supply voltage returns in full, the machine or equipment does not automatically restart in an uncontrolled manner, but must be consciously switched on again. Using this function, dangerous situations for operating personnel as well as for the surroundings of the device itself can be prevented.
The UP1 is a 2-pole circuit breaker with additional undervoltage monitoring actuates a trip re-lease with a loss of voltage or an intense voltage drop. The breaker is available with rocker actuation for snap-in mounting or with push-button actuation for both snap-in mounting as well as screw fitting. Protection covers against the ingress of dust and spray water make the use of the breaker in harsh environments such as wood-, masonry- or metal-workings possible.
The requirement for the use of undervoltage protection is in existence for applications such as gardening equipment, gardening shredders, floor cleaning and sanding devices, electrical tools such as circular saws, band saws, grinding machines and drills. Further examples are fuel pumps, coffee-milling devices, fruit juice squeezing machines and fruit juice centrifuges.
The UP1 undervoltage circuit breaker is configured differently in its hardware for various net-work supply voltages und must be therefore ordered for the appropriate supply voltage. Rated switching category is AC-1 16A / AC-3 14.5A @ AC 240 V. The breakers are approved to IEC 60947, UL 508, CSA 22.2 No.14-95 and also contain a horsepower rating.
Technical Characteristics:
- 2-pole switch
- Undervoltage trip release with restart prevention
- Available with rocker or push-button actuation
- Dust and jetting water protection to IP 65
- VDE & cURus approvals for rated currents AC-1 16A / AC-3 14.5A @ AC 240V
.
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
Finder has introduced surge protection devices (SPD) designed specifically for photovoltaic (PV) panel installations. Additions to its popular 7P Series of SPDs, three new Type 2 surge arresters will protect PV systems from the effects of lightning strike and electrical switching transients. The products are already supporting the company’s own PV panels at its primary manufacturing plant.
Featuring encapsulated spark gap and/or replaceable varistor modules, the three devices protect the more vulnerable DC side of commonly used earth free and mid point earthed PV systems. The range includes: the 7P.26.9.420, providing 2 varistors and 1 spark gap for 420V DC systems; the 7P.23.9.700, providing 3 varistors for 700V DC systems and the 7P.23.9.000, providing 3 varistors for 1000V DC systems.
Each device integrates both a visual indicator and a signalling contact to warn when a varistor module needs replacing. Connection to the signalling contact is via a convenient plug-in terminal block. The SPDs comply with EN 61643-11 standard and can be 35mm rail (EN 60715) mounted.
Finder’s introduction of a range of SPDs tailored to the needs of PV installations comes at a time when UK government Feed-In Tariffs (FITs) appear to have stimulated a step increase in interest in PV system in the country. The UK is now the fastest growing market for PV solar energy installations, estimated to produce 96MW of electricity in 2010 compared with 6MW in 2009.
At the same time, a prospective revision of the UK wiring regulations, placing far more emphasis on the provision of protection from electrical surges, has meant there is a resurgence of interest in associated products, in particular varistor and spark gap type SPDs.
PV panels at Finder’s prime manufacturing site in Almese near Turin in North West Italy have been producing an output power of 55kW since early 2009, equating to 61,000 kWh/year. So pleased with the performance, the company has this month commissioned a further 60kW of PV panels, which of course will be protected by the new 7P Series surge arresters.
Constructed using multicrystalline silicon PV modules, Finder’s initial PV system is calculated to have reduced CO2 emissions by about 37 tons/year, achieving annual cost savings of around 11 TOE (tonnes of oil equivalent).
.
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
With over 26,000 combinations Bulgin’s Polysnap mains power inlet modules offer a very adaptable and flexible solution to panel design.
Click HERE for Polysnap Catalogue
Polysnap allow combinations of mains inlets and outlets, filtered inlets, switches, fuseholders, voltage selectors, indicators and circuit breakers mounted in either horizontal or vertical format bezels ready for quick snap-fit assembly. The compact design occupies the minimum of panel area and a single rectangular mounting hole, offering easy installation for this mains power entry module.
To complement Polysnap the Polyflange range offers a flange fixing alternative for designers who prefer the security of screw fixing. All types and variations are available through Bulgin’s extensive
distribution network.
.
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
The new power entry modules, types 6135 and 6136, from SCHURTER combine appliance inlet and circuit breaker into one component. The two types provide a simple and cost effective means of over current protection, particularly suited for applications with motors.
The IEC C20 appliance inlet integrates the TA35 circuit breaker from SCHURTER. The 1-pole circuit breaker is equipped with a thermal trip-free release and offers current ratings from 50 mA to 16A (ENEC) or 20A (cURus).
The rocker is available in various colours, legends, with or without illumination. The power entry module is arranged for cost effective snap-in mounting. Typical areas of applications are to be found in laboratory equipment, medical appliances, fit-ness equipment and ergo meters, with automatic winding and coiling devices, as well as with do it yourself machines. The product is approved to ENEC and cURus.
Technical features:
- Appliance inlet C20 according to IEC 60320 with circuit breaker TA35
- 1-pole circuit breaker
- Snap-in mounting for panel thicknesses 1.5 mm – 2.5 mm
- ENEC & cURus approvals for 16 A / 20 A at 250VAC
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
ASO: Quick-acting fuse up to 1000 VDC in a compact design 10.3x38
FSO: Fuseholder for standard DIN rail mount
Schurter introduces the new solar fuse ASO and fuseholder FSO with quick-acting characteristic to protect photovoltaic and similar DC-applications. The new product extend the strategic segment “renewable energy” with a 1000 VDC fuse with a current range from 1 A to 30 A and a touch safe fuseholder FSO. As PV systems have grown in sitze, so have their circuit protection requirements such as voltage rating. This high performance DC fuse is in a compact 10.3x38 mm package.
The ASO fuse protects PV modules, conductors and similar DC-applications from the potentially devastating effects of a low short circuit current in systems upwards of 1000 VDC.
The wire bonding makes the fuse stable and reliable with an operating temperature range of -40°C to 85°C. The ASO fuse is especially designet for protecting DC low short circuit current and overvoltage conditions like solar panels (strings), inverters, battery charges and combiner boxes.
The touch safe fuseholder FSO is designed for grid-tie or off-grid array combiners and standard DIN rail mount.
The products includes cURus agency approval, are RoHs compliant and halogen-free.
Technical Features:
- Current range: 1 A to 30 A
- Rated voltage: 1000 VDC
- Quick-acting characteristic according to UL 248-14
- Breaking capacity of 20 kA
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
Compact TA35 with new rotary knob actuation in 1-, 2- and 3-pole versions
Schurter introduces an additional actuator to its exisiting and successful TA35 circuit breaker series. This new actuator provides a grip and turn style knob, which is ideal for switching with gloves or where longer feedback is desired. The design allows for customer specific colored faceplates and knob designs.
The new TA35 rotary switch offers IP 40 protection and fits panel thicknesses ranging from 2 to 3 mm. Terminals are for 6.3x0.8 mm connections. Switch and thermal overload protection current ratings range from 0.05 A to 20 A for 1- and 2- pole types, and 0.05 A to 12 A for the 3-pole version. Typcial applications are power tool machines, high pressure cleaners, power generators and compressors. The CBE is approved according to IEC 60934, UL 1077, CSA C22.2 235 and GB 17701 and is RoHS compliant.
- Thermal Circuit Breaker 1-, 2- or 3-Pole
- Full VDE, cURus and CCC approvals
- Rotary Knob Actuator with custom options
- Ambient Temperature: -30 °C bis +60 °C
- Positively Trip-free release
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
Compact Thermal Circuit Breaker Spots Factory Mounted Protection Cover
Schurter introduces new protection covers for its popular TA35 series Circuit Breaker forEquipment. The 2-pole circuit breaker is now available with factory mounted covers in addition to its range of covers supplied separate for customer installation. Cover options include transparent cover with or without collar, or collar only. These value added features are new to circuit breaker design, reducing parts count and providing a cost savings alternative to conventional products requiring secondary steps for IP protection.
The TA35 series has a high degree of customer appeal due to its compact form and attractive design. The rocker-actuating switch functions as a switch only or with thermal overload protection. It can be supplied either with or without illumination, including the trendy blue, for a total of ten rocker colors. Various standard legends and customer specific symbols are also offered. The TA35 with IP 65 protection cover is ideal for applications exposed to dust or splashing water. Typical applications are laboratory equipment for chemical and medical applications, food processing equipment and commercial appliances, wood and masonry machines, construction site equipment, power generators and cleaning equipment. The series is designed to meet IEC 60934, UL 1077 and CSA C22.2 235 and carries VDE and cURus approvals.
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
Blade-type fuse replacements distinguish genuine overloads
E-T-A Circuit Breakers, quality designer and manufacturer of a broad range of electro-mechanical and electronic products for circuit protection, has introduced a new low cost E-T-A 1626 miniaturised circuit breaker designed as a direct replacement for blade-type fuses. It provides superior protection to fuses through its ability to distinguish between temporary surges and genuine overloads. As well as protecting electrical circuits in cars, trucks and buses, it can also be used in watercraft and other 12/24V DC wiring applications, such as heavy-duty and off-road vehicles.
The new blade-type E-T-A 1626 Mini-CBE is available in three versions – with automatic reset, with a reset button, or with both a manual release and a reset button. The colour coded E-T-A 1626s are available in all the standard current ratings offered by blade fuses from 5A up to 30A. Depending on the version, when the 1626 has tripped it resets automatically when the load is removed or the re-set button pops up showing clearly which circuit has a fault.
The colour coding provides quick and easy identification to ensure correct plug-in placement in standard ISO 8820-3 Type F automotive blade-type fuse blocks, or the E-T-A 1626 can be fitted to purpose-designed E-T-A modular mounting bases. At the same time, the electrical performance characteristics of the E-T-A 1626 enable it to distinguish between temporary surges and genuine overloads, providing superior protection to fuses. This is especially important for motors, lamp loads and other circuits where discrimination is necessary between in-rush currents and normal operating conditions. Also, E-T-A circuit breaker performance is stable over time: fuses can age, causing their blow characteristics to change, which may lead to nuisance blowing of fuses with consequent problems while the vehicle is in use.
Overall dimensions of the body of the overcurrent circuit breaker are just 25mm in height above the blade x 13.3mm wide x 7mm thick. The operating temperature range is -40 degrees C to +85 degrees C.
Enquiry Form: https://www.epreston.co.uk/contact/
Home Page: https://www.epreston.co.uk/epblog/
© E. Preston (Electrical) Ltd 2025.
UK distributor of electrical and electronic components.