Special switches

In addition to our standard range of enclosed switches and switch fuses, Katko can also supply switches for special applications such as, Photovoltaic Switches, ATEX Switches and Fireman Switches.

Solar Application Photovoltaic Switches

Solar Power is becoming more and more important today as a source of alternative energy. However, one of the problems to overcome is that the Photovoltaic cells generate DC power and therefore require an inverter to change the DC power into AC power which is what we need for both industry and our homes.

The cells are constantly generating whilst there is daylight and for safety, therefore, the inverter needs to be isolated for servicing and repair.

To ensure safety, it is customary to fit a DC switch between the photovoltaic cells and the input to the inverter and also an AC switch between the output of the inverter and the main switchboard.

For increased awareness, and thereby safety, Katko supply the DC switches in grey enclosures with a black handle and the AC switches in a yellow enclosure with a yellow/red handle, making it immediately apparent to the end user which switch is DC and which is AC.

Katko's DC range covers from 6A DC22 at 440V to 200A DC21 at 1000V. Katko's AC range covers from 16A to 630A. See our full Photovoltaic switch range.

ATEX Switches

Switching electrical equipment in dusty atmospheres such as flour or wood dust can cause explosions.

To overcome this problem, Katko has designed switches to comply with the recognised standards for dusty atmospheres.

These switches are known as ATEX switches and conform to standard EN61241, making them suitable for use in Zone 22 (category 3D) areas.

The enclosures used are IP66 rated and in addition must withstand a frontal impact of 7 Joules. (IP enclosure rating explanation.)

For this reason, the switches are supplied in enclosures of either cast aluminium or stainless steel. In 3 pole, 4 pole, 6 pole or 8 pole versions, they cover the range from 16A to 200A.

Every switch is complete with special ATEX cable glands.

Fireman's Switches

When there is a fire in a premises, firemen need to isolate the electrical circuits.

Especially designed for this purpose, Katko's Fireman Switch can regularly be seen on the wall of petrol stations or outside large stores to switch off the flourescent signs.

The units are normally mounted two metres above ground level to stop tampering and are operated by a fireman's pole. The switch is side operated and painted red.

Katko can supply these switches rated IP65 in the range 25A - 63A, in 3 or 4 pole versions and in aluminium or polycarbonate enclosures.

Fire Rated Switches

If you are unfortunate enough to have a fire at your premises, you are going to want your switches to continue to function until the fire can be put out - our fire rated switches have been designed to provide you with precisely this ability.

Each switch will continue to work for three hours in temperature of 200 degrees centigrade - which should give you and the fire brigade sufficient time to put the fire out. See our full range of fire rated switches.