ABB Main applications where contactors are used for DC switching

Applications

Main applications where contactors are used for DC switching are:

•  Disconnection of the inverter from the PV strings when the

output is too low.

• Changing the string configuration, e.g. to increase plant

efficiency by diverting one or several PV strings to an opti-

mal number of converters at low output. This makes it

possible to constantly optimize the efficiency of the system.

Applications – other

There are several other DC-applications in which ABB’s GAF & AF contactors can be efficiently used.

Traction

Traction vehicles

• Urban traction vehicles such as trams,

subways, commuter trains etc.

• Diesel locomotives

•  Heating applications

Traction wayside

• Signaling

• Switchgear

• Power distribution

Batteries

The accelerating need for mobile energy and protection against

power disturbances in distribution networks is driving the market

of batteries forward. The number of applications where batteries

can  be used is steadily increasing and with that the need of DC

switching. Examples of such applications are charging of vehicle

batteries, DC storage, UPS installations, backup and control

solutions, etc.

Telecom

The telecom industry is today facing a rapid increase of data

transmission which demands larger and more efficient transmis

sion stations. Larger stations may require higher currents and an

increase of voltage in order to reduce energy losses. In this kind

of setup compact, efficient and reliable DC switching is needed.

Special industry:

• DC Drives in e.g. metal refining plants.