Modular electrical appliances

Modular electrical devices that are installed in switchboards are devices whose basic installation dimensions are standardized and do not change from manufacturer to manufacturer (as a rule). Such devices are mounted in panels on a special metal profile, called a 35 mm DIN rail, horizontally in a row. At the same time, they form a single whole and can be closed by a closing panel that leaves access to the control elements of the devices.

The dimensions of the modules to be standardized are as follows:

• width 17.5-18 mm. An exception today is such exotics as modular automatic switches produced by a plant in Tiraspol VA 60-26 with a width of 12.5 mm. These devices deserve a special mention due to the fact that with the limited size of the shield, they can accommodate a larger number of machines.
• depth from the plane of the inner side of the cover to the plane of attachment — 58 mm.
• total height of the module — not more than 96 mm.
• central location and width of the protruding part carrying the controls and controls (this allows the use of a standard cover for modular devices from different manufacturers).

Devices can have different widths depending on their purpose, but this parameter is always a multiple of the width of one module — 17.5-18 mm. To switch the devices installed in the panel, buses, combs, terminals, amps, etc. are used.

All major European manufacturers offer a wide range of devices that allow the electrical connection of devices inside the switchboard to each other. Panel housings combine all the devices that can provide reception, distribution, electricity metering, consumer management, line protection, consumers and consumers of electricity.

Shield bodies can be classified according to the following parameters:

• Material: metal or plastic
• External or internal installation

Metal shields are more durable, provide better protection against external influences, non-combustible.

Plastic shields (from the same manufacturer) are usually cheaper, easier to fit into the interior, but they are flammable, subject to mechanical damage and have a limited size. Therefore, large shields are usually assembled in metal cases, small, for example, floor ones, in plastic ones.

Outdoor or indoor installation, ie. hinged or built-in shield housing is selected based on local conditions. Built-in wardrobes do not "eat up" the interior space of the rooms, but require deepening in the wall, which is not always possible.Wall cabinets are easier to install, but take up some of the usable space.

The choice of the type of installation of the shield can also be determined by the type of wiring used - with external wiring, hinged panels are more often used, with hidden - built-in.

The leading European suppliers of panels in Russia should be recognized as ABB and Schneider Electric, which represent the widest range of standard sizes and versions of panels in the domestic market. Also noteworthy are Eldon's panel products, household metal panels.

When choosing a shield manufacturer, it is recommended to pay attention to the completeness of accessories for the installation of measuring, protective and control devices: racks, various profiles, mounting plates, roof panels.