Merlin Gerin Interpact MGI1604 160A Switch Disconnector DC ratings?

[PYE]

Do the PRE rebranded by Schneider "Merlin Gerin" Interpact MGI1604 415VAC 160A Switch Disconnectors have any DC22A and DC23A deratings from AC?

The later Schneider Interpact and Compact had DC ratings and look physically identical.

We have quite a few of the Merlin Gerin ones knocking around and would like to implement them into 48-60VDC projects.

I cannot find any data sheets on these older switch disconnectors.

Any information would be helpful.

regards

[NathanChiam]

Hi @PYE , out of curiosity, is the component MGI1604, an isolator switch?

[Christian_Bach]

Hello @PYE 

Sorry, I am not sure to understand. What do you mean by "PRE rebranded" ? Could you please post a picture of the front face with performance label and datecode (located on the side normally) ?

Thanks,

Christian

[PYE]

Hi,

Yes it is an isolator switch but technically known as a switch disconnector as it rated to disconnect under load rated AC23.

regards

[PYE]

Hi,

These are Switch Disconnectors are stil branded as MERLIN GERIN interpact, which was before Schneider bought Merlin Gerin and finally rebranded all their products to Schneider Merlin Gerin and then Schneider Electric.

please see the photo of the switch disconnector in question.

I will come back with the data code label information shortly.

regards

[PYE]

Here are the photos of the switch  disconnectors we currently have. Like I said they are old stock and we would like to use them if possible.

regards

[Christian_Bach · Accepted solution]

Hello,

Thanks for the pictures.

Had to dig a bit, but this seems to be a UK specific offer with solid neutral (permanently closed). This version is of course not intended to be used in DC networks and thus not certified for these ratings. So even if it may work, unfortunately I cannot tell you that specific switch is useable in your application.

You can use the equivalent standard version INS160 (ref 31104), that has DC ratings marked and certified.

Best regards,

Christian

[PYE]

Christian,

Thanks for digging deep, I spent many hours over the past ew weeks trying to find detailed data. It seems you are correct and they are only rated at AC23.

Did you see the picture of the other switch that is solid dark grey in colour as opposed to the light and dark grey of the earlier models. That one has INS written on the label on the side but still only has AC23 writting on the front of the switch and is 4 switched poles. Again I think it may only be AC23 rated.

Thanks for confirming

regards

[PYE]

Christian,

Whilst I have your access to the data sheets, is there any data regarding DC derating for continuos current on the INTERPACT or COMPACT range of switch disconnectors. Also the DC data for ambient temperating and derating. For example

INS400 switch disconnector

400A DC is stated in the datasheet along with operation up to 70 degrees C

Is there a derating for 80% continuos current and then another derating factor eg. 0.9  for that 80% of say at 40 degrees C; 0.8 at 70 degrees celcius etc.

or

Can i assume that the INS400 will be happy sitting at 400A continuos current load at 70 degrees celcius.

Of course I would never design such a circuit but am curious as the DC information on may products is limited as opposed to the AC data. I am much more on the conservative side with derating factors when dealing with DC as DC likes to vapourise and destroy components when it gets the chance. lol.

regards

[Gregoire_Brun · Accepted solution]

Hello PYE

You can find all this informations on our DC Catalogue

https://www.se.com/fr/fr/download/document/LVPED208006EN/

Have nice Week end

Gregoire

[Christian_Bach · Accepted solution]

Hello,

To answer your question about the recent sample you have with black case, I will do the same answer as before. It seems to be a specific version for UK with a special handle, and this does not seem to have DC ratings. If you have a local contact in Schneider UK maybe you can ask. I can try on my side if needed.

On the DC deratings, as Gregoire said there are a lot of data in the catalog, depending on the wiring / rating / etc. Not easy to explain here.

I would say globally between 50Hz & DC the temp rise is pretty similar or lower in DC (no skin effect).

Of course the products are designed to withstand their rating, but it is advised to respect the 80% continuous duty rule to increase significantly life expectancy.

Christian

[PYE · Accepted solution]

Gregoire,

Thank you for the Link, much appreciated.

I will digest it later.

regards