Difference between revisions of "Disconnect"
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| − | [[File:Disconnect201022.png|thumb|right|An example of a disconnect.]] | + | [[File:Disconnect201022.png|thumb|right|An example of a disconnect. The red handle moves the red cylinder in the center to connect and disconnect the line (top) and load (bottom) terminals of the disconnect.]] |
| + | A disconnect enables a circuit to be disconnected or isolated from the rest of an electrical system. Disconnects are vital for safety and security as they allow different components in the system to be isolated in order to perform maintenance or service. In an offgrid PV system there are two power sources - the [[Solar PV module|PV source]] and the [[Energy storage|energy storage system]] - that do not have an integrated means to disconnect or turn them off. All major components in a PV system should have a disconnect that enables them to be isolated from these two potential power sources and any others. In an offgrid PV system breakers are typically used as a disconnect - as they can be opened under load - while also serving as an OCPD for system components. Fuses are not an appropriate disconnect as they should not be opened under load. There are disconnects that can integrate fusing for locations where a breaker is not the best option. | ||
Revision as of 14:46, 22 October 2020
A disconnect enables a circuit to be disconnected or isolated from the rest of an electrical system. Disconnects are vital for safety and security as they allow different components in the system to be isolated in order to perform maintenance or service. In an offgrid PV system there are two power sources - the PV source and the energy storage system - that do not have an integrated means to disconnect or turn them off. All major components in a PV system should have a disconnect that enables them to be isolated from these two potential power sources and any others. In an offgrid PV system breakers are typically used as a disconnect - as they can be opened under load - while also serving as an OCPD for system components. Fuses are not an appropriate disconnect as they should not be opened under load. There are disconnects that can integrate fusing for locations where a breaker is not the best option.
