New Ex-wall sockets with RCD/MCB protection
Eaton launch new range of explosion-protected wall sockets in plastic design with RCD/MCB protection
POWER-management company Eaton have announced that their Crouse-Hinds division has launched a new range of explosion-protected wall sockets with integrated protection devices that allow local, customized protection of the connected electrical equipment.
This prevents fault tripping as a result of long cable lengths, reduces distances to the protective device if it trips, and allows the equipment to be switched on again quickly once the fault has been eliminated.
The new Ex-wall sockets with integrated RCD/MCB (RCBO) protection from Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds Division are protected by an IP66 plastic (GRP) enclosure and are suitable for installation in hazardous gas areas (Zone 1 & 2) and hazardous dust areas (Zone 21 & 22).
For extra protection in hazardous gas and hazardous dust environments, explosion-protected wall sockets can be fitted with local protection devices in the form of a residual current circuit breaker (RCD) or miniature current circuit breaker (MCB).
With a built-in protection device, the feed line and the end unit can be protected individually to suit the required load. Individual work areas can be isolated while maintenance is carried out.
In the event of a fault, only the area affected is switched off – all other areas remain fully functional. Individual areas can also be switched off manually and safeguarded from being switched on accidentally by using a safety padlock.
Franz Ruscher, product line manager for connectivity with Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds business, said: ‘The design of the Ex-wall sockets with RCD/MCB protection is based on our tried-and-tested enclosure series, combined with our robust flange sockets and built-in Ex-components, so customers can rest assured they are installing a high-quality, robust and reliable wall socket with a high degree of protection.’
He continued: ‘The protection device will not trip, even if cable lengths are long. By placing the RCCB/MCCB directly in the wall socket, cable lengths are reduced and faults minimized. The Ex-wall sockets also allow direct on-site access to the safety devices. This means that users can react more flexibly with reaction and equipment restart times reduced significantly.’
The integrated RCD/MCB protection devices can be accessed easily at any time by using the actuating flap/cover. With a tripping current of 10–500mA, in the event of a fault with the connected equipment, the RCD/MCB device protects personnel from serious injuries due to electric shocks.
The Ex-wall sockets are available in three enclosure sizes with rated currents of 16A and 32A and rated voltages from 24V up to 400V. Permissible ambient temperatures are from –20°C to +40°C.
