E-T-A Circuit Breakers Ltd

The E-T-A DC-Disconnect PVDIS- is a 2-pole track mountable disconnector that has especially been designed for photovoltaics, meeting the requirements of IEC/EN 60947-3 for DC 1000 V and 30 A.

DC Disconnects or isolating switches are used for opening or closing a circuit, e.g. for plant maintenance and repair. In photovoltaic applications, the DC Disconnect helps to isolate the PV generator from the remaining electrical system. Arc fault detectors monitor systems and plants with regard to hazardous arcs. They detect arcs early in the formation phase and help to prevent fire hazard.

The powerful DC Disconnect PVREM- -AF1 on a hybrid basis allows disconnection of the DC side of a photovoltaic system in proximity of the modules (or directly below the cable outlet) by means of the integral remote control module. Disconnection of the DC lines within the building ensures a high degree of safety for individualsÐin Ðhazardous situations such as fire or flood and also during Ðmaintenance works.

The additionally integrated arc fault detection feature, tested to the standard UL 1699B, detects hazardous DC arc faults in the PV system and trips the DC Disconnect immediately by means of the remote control. Disconnection of the circuit helps to extinguish serial arc faults already before any safety-critical situations can arise. DC arc faults can be caused by defective components such as connectors, cables, PV modules and junction boxes due to ageing, animal bite, heavy snowfall or mounting and installation errors. The integral arc fault detector now allows realisation of fire prevention in photovoltaic systems. Remote disconnection and reconnection provide ease of reset and thus high system availability even in large roof-mounted solar installations.

The E-T-A technology of arc fault detection significantly enhances the safety of photovoltaic systems.

The powerful DC Disconnect type PVDIS- can be adjusted to customer's requirements by additional functions in a modular design. In order to provide a remote control function the electronic control unit will receive a command e.g. via an external three position momentary switch (I-0-II) and the motor will switch the DC Disconnect on or off. It must be ensured the supply voltage in the application is maintained without fail. Information on the switch position can be transmitted to a centralised control room via an auxiliary contact (changeover contact).