If it is necessary to distribute the load to several parallel lines in a three-phase or single-phase circuit, use a reversing switch (aka reversing switch or circuit breaker). The device has a simple design, completely safe for the master at the time of its operation. The machine can only be operated manually.
Definition and purpose of a reversible switch
A reversible switch is called a special switch, thanks to which the master can transfer to the opposite state (invert) the switching of the conductors connected to the device.
The device is used in three-phase circuits. When installing the switch, it is possible to evenly redistribute the power to several lines without disrupting the power supply of the entire house or room.
The reversing switch is installed on such objects:
- Private houses with powerful equipment: oven, hob, etc.
- Industrial enterprises of the food sector: bakeries, bakeries, confectionery factories, food factories.
- Heavy industry.
- Medical institutions.
- Public places: cinemas, shopping centers, museums, etc.
Switches are used wherever there is a need for a complete organization of switching without failures. It is important here to exclude the possibility of a short circuit.
Switch design
The reversing machine looks like a box with a built-in knife contact system and spring brackets. When the first is closed, the metal blades enter the brackets. Thanks to this principle of operation, breaking the contact under its own weight is excluded. There is a smooth redistribution of electricity from one line to another.
You can fix the switch on the wall in any position - horizontally, vertically and even diagonally. This does not affect its performance.
Types of switches
Reversing relays are classified according to several criteria - the number of poles and the switching of currents.
There are these types of switches:
- Single pole. They are used for a single-phase electrical network. They have one module with a copper conductor. Most often used in residential premises. The single-phase reversing machine is ideal for generators with a frequency not exceeding 20 Hz.
- Bipolar. They are most often used in apartments with conventional and more powerful household appliances. The switch is equipped with two inputs. This means that it can be used to simultaneously power equipment from a three-phase and a single-phase network. The negative resistance of such devices is 60 ohms. In this case, the input voltage is not regulated for two-pole devices.
Reversible switch with ATS Compact ATS OTM63F3C21D400C three-pole - Three-pole. These types of switches are used in three-phase electrical lines without a zero drive. It is permissible to use such a switch in a single-phase network, but provided that only two poles are activated.
- Four-pole. Indicated for use in the case of operation of a three-phase electrical network and the same generator. The relay facilitates smooth switching of three phases plus zero between the generator and the main power line.
In terms of rated currents, the manufacturer offers the modern consumer automatic machines with switching parameters from 16 A to 1.6 kA. Some varieties can be used in networks with voltages up to 660 V. Some - with an indicator up to 440 V.
Additionally, the switches are divided into two types - with a parallel or perpendicular output, based on the location of its installation and the connection of all external terminals. It is also possible to buy a combined type device.
If the master understands that when the power supply is installed, there will be a need to switch the electrical circuit under voltage, it is better to buy a reversing relay with an arc chute. It helps to extinguish the arc and thus prevents the breakdown of the apparatus.
Specifications
All reversing circuit breakers have the following main technical parameters:
- indicators for rated current - from 16 to 3 200 A;
- number of poles - from 1 to 4;
- permissible operating temperature - no more than -40 degrees to +55;
- section of cables - from 0.75 to 35 mm2;
- installation type - din rail or mounting plate.
Some models additionally have a control knob.
Installing devices
Regardless of which machine is connected - a single-phase reversible switch for a house or two-, three-, four-phase, during its installation, you should adhere to the following rules:
- Installation of the device is carried out only in closed rooms. It is inadmissible to get moisture into the box of the device. If the installation is carried out outdoors, the switch must be protected with a sealed box. It must be locked with a key.
- It is allowed to mount the device at temperatures from -40 to +55 degrees.
- The relay is fixed in accordance with all the rules. Free movement of the mechanism when acting on it is not allowed.
- If the recommended operating temperature range cannot be maintained, the protective cabinet must be heated or cooled.
- The connection of a three-phase, two-, one- or four-phase reversing switch is carried out using a wire wire crimped with a sleeve, a bus duct or wires with a central core.
The installation of the reversing switch according to the scheme should be carried out by an experienced electrician who has permission to perform this type of work. Otherwise, emergency situations are not excluded. Installation of the relay (reverse) is carried out only when the network is completely de-energized.
Recommendations for use
For the full operation of the toggle switch-disconnector, it is advisable to mount the devices in plastic boxes only in the building. For streets, it is better to provide a more durable metal box.
If the upper zone of one of the contact knives is burned, they must be cleaned with a fine abrasive file.
Otherwise, the reversing relay does not require special operating principles.
