Heavy Duty Siemens PV Disconnect

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Zee

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Any experience with using the heavy duty Siemens PV disconnects?

Usually Heavy Duty, 600 VDC rated , Square D disconnects (model # HU361RB for example) are used as DC disconnects in PV arrays.

The problem? Each pole on the Square D 30A disconnect can only handle 11.5 A Isc @ 156% = 18Amp MAX - if all three poles are used.

According to my interpretation of their 2007 Data Bulletin, higher amps (up to the rating of the disco (30, 60, 100 etc AMPS)) may be disconected as long as they are routed through two poles to safely extinguish the 600 VDC arc.
 
Siemens 600VDC Solar Photovoltaic Switches

Siemens 600VDC Solar Photovoltaic Switches

Siemens 600VDC Solar Photovoltaic Switches are Listed for 3 separate circuits per switch, each of up to 600 VDC. Only a single break is needed per circuit.

This switch is slightly different from other 600VDC safety switches in that it uses a magnetic snuffer assembly on each circuit to increase the allowed voltage per pole.

Everything you ever wanted to know (ex cost):
http://www.sea.siemens.com/us/inter...s_Brochures/SIE_SS_Solar Switches Product.pdf

My only problem with these is that while my local distributor stocks the most popular 30A size, they do not carry the smaller hubs that fit, so I have to go elsewhere for the hub. Go figure.
 
Yes, thanks.
I have read all about it also.
I have used it once.
Prettyy heavy! I like that: seemed sturdy.
I was wondering if people have installation and operation experience with it.
The magnets are a cool feature...only negative can be snuffed!
 
Not true now- "only negative can be snuffed!"

Not true now- "only negative can be snuffed!"

The switches come in two versions now, but did not initially.

Quoted from the referenced Siemens link of the earlier posting:

? UL Listed and specifically designed and tested for use with three separate 600V DC circuits
? Specific catalog numbers are available for use with negative and for positive ground system

Negative Ground HF361RPV
Positive Ground HF361RPVPG

Apparently not for ungrounded/transformerless arrays. Also, apparently without lugs as there are tables of suitable lugs. The couple of 30A switches I installed last year came with lugs at that time.
 
Thanks, BILLK-AZ.
All very useful info.
I see now: Positive disco. versions are available and no lugs!
 
There are non-conductive magnets that are used to control and snuff the arc when the switch opens. Generally, the magnet pulls the arc to the magnet and the arc is cooled by contact and is extinguished. If the polarity of the magnet is wrong, it does not work.
 
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