Safety Switch

Manhua Electric: Your Professional Safety Switch Supplier!

Our staffs of Manhua Electric have over thirty years of experience in the production and export of electrical products. Our main products include switchboards, automatic transfer switches (ATS), circuit breakers, contactors, lightning arresters, photocells and timers. Starting in 2017, we started operating a warehousing center in Chicago, USA. As a supplier of United Nations tender projects, we have been participating in power construction projects in overseas markets.

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Good Reputation
We have cooperated with partners in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan and other countries, and have gained their trust because of the excellent quality of our products.

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Quality Guaranteed
We ensure that all production processes are carried out in accordance with the ISO9001 system, and all products have passed CE certification, and some products have also passed UL and VDE certification.

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High Productivity
We have our own standard factory buildings and warehousing centers, which can supply electrical products in large quantities and independently complete all work from raw materials, product production, assembly to packaging.

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Warm Service
We sincerely welcome all customers who come to inquire about our products, and provide professional product knowledge and technical guidance, as well as complete warranty and after-sales services.

30A Safety Switch

What is Safety Switch?

Safety switches are also known as "disconnect switches" or "load break switches", which are required for power outlets in home and caravan parks. They are usually located in the electricity box on the switchboard, which is typically located at the front of the home near the power meter. The switches protect people from electric shock by turning off the electricity within milliseconds of detecting a current leak. This can happen if a faulty power point, wiring or electrical appliance is being used. Circuit breakers and fuses on the other hand protect the circuitry.

Features of Safety Switch

Low Maintenance

These switches can be used with fuses, and they offer recessed "ON" and "OFF" indicators on both the handle and door, as well as easy-to-maintain zipper models.

High Security

As safety switches that provide the minimum contact gap required for power supply, they comply with European safety standards and feature dual return springs and direct drive positive contact opening.

Durable Material

Made of insulating plastic, these safety switches are not only waterproof and fireproof, but also achieve a high level of protection against electric shock, making them ideal for HVAC and some large equipment applications.

Easy to Install

Their appearance is compact and small, which can meet the installation needs in small space environments and is very easy to install and disassemble.

Types of Safety Switch

Switchboard-Mounted Safety Switches
This type of safety switch is the device required by law to be fitted to the power and lighting circuits of new homes. They are located alongside circuit-breakers in the home’s switchboard, and can be distinguished from circuit breakers by the presence of a button marked “test”, which is located on the front face of the device.

General Duty Safety Switch
Used in residential, commercial and light industrial applications, these switches are load-break rated and suitable for light-duty motor circuits and service entrance applications, unless otherwise noted.

Heavy-Duty Safety Switch
Used in commercial, institutional and industrial applications where reliable performance and service continuity are critical, these switches are most often rated 30 – 1200A with a visible double-break rotary blade mechanism. All heavy-duty switches are load-break rated. For added safety, Eaton’s interlocking mechanism ensures the door cannot be opened when the handle is in the ON position; however, a built-in defeater mechanism provides user access when necessary.

Heavy-Duty Switches Pin and Sleeve Receptacle
Pre-wired and interlocked to polarize receptacles for three-phase, three-wire grounded type power plugs, receptacle switches are used for portable power applications such as welders, infrared ovens, batch feeders, conveyors and truck and marine docks.

Heavy-Duty Safety Switches with Surge Protection
Safety switches with integrated surge protection are used in light commercial, commercial and industrial markets, providing superior protection at the service entrance and/or branch circuit level. Integral to the switch, an SPD provides significantly better performance compared to a device that’s externally mounted, resulting in better protection for connected equipment.

Heavy-Duty Safety Switches with Shunt Trip
Configured to meet the needs of safety applications in industrial and commercial environments, shunt trip safety switches can be signaled to electronically operate the trip mechanism and interrupt the flow of power when a defined electrical condition is detected via protection relay (i.e., ground fault). When using an emergency stop, safety interlock or similar means, the remote operation capability of the shunt trip switch no longer requires personnel to manually open the switch with the handle, enhancing safety and improving productivity.

Double Throw Safety Switch
Used to transfer service from a normal power source to an alternate source, or to switch from one load circuit to another, these safety switches have two interlocked switches with a common connection. The design ensures both switches cannot be closed at the same time, preventing them from being operated in parallel. Double throw switches are offered in general duty, heavy-duty and quick-connect options. Eaton’s stacked switch design (available for a variety of fusible units) reduces not only wall space requirements, but also overall installation cost by reducing the number of fuses required (three fuses instead of six for a 3-pole device).

Difference Between Safety Switch & Circuit Breaker

These two products are often spoken of as though they are interchangeable and serve the same function. However this is very inaccurate! Though both might be found in an electrical control panel, the two items are quite different in function and use.

A safety disconnect, or safety switch, is a device that monitors electric current in various applications. A safety switch works by monitoring the current and detecting faults in the electrical. This means in the event of an electrical leak, a short-circuit, an overload, or equipment failure, the safety switch will nearly instantaneously (within milliseconds) shut off power to the system in trouble.

A circuit breaker, on the other hand, specifically monitors for overloading a circuit. If too much power is being drawn by any particular circuit, the breaker will simply trip, cutting off power. You’re probably most familiar with this in a home applications, such as trying to plug a space heater or hair dryer into a circuit that is already at capacity, which will cause a trip.

We realize the difference appears small at first! After all, both are found in a control panel, both shut off electrical access when needed. However a circuit breaker will not save someone from injury, and this is the critical difference! A breaker will only look for excess or overloading, and will do nothing in the event of short circuiting or electrical leak. This means there is still a considerable potential for harm present if you only rely on a breaker.

The safety switch, on the other hand, will monitor for any inconsistencies in electrical, and will shut off power if anything is out of sorts at all. In short, breakers protect wiring, and safety switches protect people and appliances. This is why your business should rely on both for complete coverage and total assurance of safety within your structure.

Why your safety switch trips?

Usually, an RCD trips when it detects a fault in an electrical circuit. But if it keeps tripping, you may be wondering if there’s anything wrong with it and might need replacing. In reality, this means the switch is actually working properly.

Broken Electrical Appliances

Another reason why your safety switch trips is to let you know that something is wrong with one of your electrical devices. For example, old washing machines, kettles, toasters, fridges or freezers can become dangerous with age. And when some of them are plugged in together, they can overload the circuit and break. Therefore, the RCD will detect the leakage and disconnect the current before an injury occurs. Then, all you have to do is detect the broken appliance and repair or replace it as soon as possible.

Faulty or Old Electrical Wiring

Faulty wiring can also be one of RCD tripping main causes. In fact, old electrical wiring deteriorates over time and the insulation around it becomes fragile and unsafe. This is more likely to happen in older houses with black rubber insulated cables, split metal conduit or the old type cotton cables as their electrical system. In some situations, faulty electrical wiring can potentially cause a short circuit, which can result in fire or electrical shock. Hence, the trouble could be hiding inside the walls of your building.

Rain or Lightning

Finally, stormy weather can be another major reason why your safety switch trips. In some Australian climates, long periods of rain could cause excessive water leaking around electrical items such as external power points and outside lights. For instance, the water coming from the roof can be infiltrated into the wall or into an electrical outlet. As a result, the safety switch is triggered. Similarly, thunder and lightning can also generate a safety switch tripping. The explanation is pretty straightforward. Since an RCD doesn’t accept major voltage fluctuations, the imbalance in electrical supply automatically triggers a trip.

How to Reset Safety Switch?

The safety switch tripping can be a nuisance but the fix is usually fairly straight forward.
(1)Try to reset the switch by flicking it back to the ON position. Sometimes the issue is temporary and the safety switch will reset easily. However, if the problem is recurring get a licenced electrician to take a look at it.

(2)If the switch does not reset unplug all the appliances (if on the power circuit) or turn off all lights (if on the light circuit). Appliances must be unplugged, simply turning off at the power point is not enough. Don't forget the hidden power points like the one behind the fridge, washing machine, or dishwasher as well as any outdoor appliances which may be plugged in.

(3)Reset the switch. If the safety switch still fails to reset avoid touching it and any electrical systems and call a licenced electrician as soon as possible.

(4)Once the switch is reset, plug your appliances back in one at a time. Usually, the faulty appliance will cause the safety switch to trip once it's plugged in and turned on clearly identifying the culprit.

(5)Make sure that power points that could be experiencing overload are not reconnected. Spread the appliances across several sockets or ask your electrician to install a new power point.

(6)For your safety do not use the faulty appliance until it has been checked and fixed by an appliance repair technician.
As we mentioned above if your safety switch trips regularly get it checked out by your electrician to ensure it's working correctly and providing protection for your family from electrical accidents.

Advantages of Safety Switch

Safety Tasks that are Solved
Safety switches are indispensable in any application where safety is required for people and machinery. They are used for protecting movable physical guards, determining the position of dangerous movements, and the safe stop function. Different safety tasks require different safety switches: Electro-mechanical and non-contact safety switches, safety locking devices, and safety command devices.

Protection against Manipulation
For the safety of persons, the EN ISO 14119 standard defines manipulation protection measures that depend on the type and coding of the locking device. RFID technology is used to avoid critical situations that occur whenever an attempt is made to manipulate the protective devices installed in machines. This eliminates the need for costly design measures on machines.

Prevent Uncontrolled Intervention
Safety switches with locking devices lock protective devices securely and prevent access to areas which are protected by protective devices. Safety switches with locking function can be relied upon to prevent people from opening protective devices until dangerous states (machine overrun movements, for example) have passed or machine processes that cannot be interrupted have been completed.

Linking of Protective Devices
Different machine areas need different protective devices. They all have the same goal: To ensure that the machine stops safely in case of faults or danger. As complexity increases, so do the requirements for integrating safety sensors into the machine. The big challenge is safely connecting all safety sensors.

Factors to Consider When Choose Safety Switch

Safety Categories

Some machines are more dangerous than others and need to be protected by safety equipment with a safety categorization of Category 2, 3 or 4. Category 2 or 3 is based upon whether the machinery has the potential of inflicting non-life threatening injuries such as a cut or bruise. Category 4 is for more dangerous machinery that has the potential to inflict more serious life threatening injuries, decapitation or loss of limbs. It is important to know which category your machinery falls under.

Cable Input Lengths

We have various cable input lengths to choose from which range from 3 to 10 metres. Or we have QD connector versions which have a socket for use with separate plug in cables. Or finally we have the LQD version which is a leaded connector device version. LQD connectors are generally used on the smaller safety switches and have a input cable which is around 150mm and a plug-in connector attached to it.

Materials

There are safety switches in ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or stainless steel grade 316 versions, both are sealed to IP67 making them fully resistant to dust and water. If you’re looking for a non-contact safety switch for the food industry then we’d recommend the stainless steel version.

●The advantages of using a stainless steel safety switch over ABS are:
●More durable – will withstand impact in the harshest of environments
●Less prone to overheat – The stainless steel body acts like a heat-sink
●Stronger fixing holes – ABS version can be over-tightened and damaged on install
●More hygienic for the foods industry

Contact Configurations

We offer various contact configurations for each type of safety switch ranging from a 1 normally open contact to 2 normally open and 1 normally closed.

Voltage & Current Ratings
The voltage range that we offer on our website is predominantly 24V DC which is the most popular choice for machine safety in the UK. If you need another voltage such as 110V AC or 230V AC we can offer this in many. The current ratings vary from 0.2 amps to 3 amps but if you need something with a higher current rating, we’ll see what we can offer.

Cross Reference
Do you currently use another brand but want a more economical solution? We have cross references available on most of our product listings that compares, have the same dimensions and fixing centres so changing is simple and saves you money – savings as much as 35% can be achieved on some models!

Dimensions
If you’re replacing an existing safety switch you’ll want something that is either identical or similar in size that’s why we offer so many different variations of safety switches.

Special Requests
If you’re looking for something really specific or unsure about which safety switch to choose, please contact us to discuss your requirements. We’re sure we can always provide the best safety solution for your application even if it involves a site visit or designing something totally bespoke just for you.

What You Should Know When Use Safety Switch

The first and the most important point is when you are mounting, dismounting, wiring or even inspecting a switch. Always remember to turn off the main supply before starting, otherwise, this could lead to electrical emergencies like shocks and the switch may also get burnt.

Using switches in an atmosphere consisting of combustible or explosive gases is like inviting death. Using switches when combustible gases and explosive gases are around results in making the switch heated which leads to explosions or horrifying fires.

Never drop safety switches. Also, make sure to never disassemble them. Dropping or disassembling switches not only cause a change in their characteristics but also causes damage, electrical shock or even burning.

750VDC 250a 4p MCCB DC Molded Case Circuit Breaker

Always keep in mind to select suitable switch ratings after you have confirmed the contact load. The contact load is a huge factor that you need to keep in mind while operating a safety switch. If the contact load is too excessive then the contacts might get welded or shifted. This will further result in short circuits, or burnings after the power supply are turned on.

Adjustable Moulded Case Circuit Breaker MCCB

The durability of a switch plays a very important factor. The durability of a switch varies greatly with switching conditions. Always make a point of using the switch in actual conditions before you start using the switch. Using a deteriorated switch continuously might result in insulation failures, switch damage or switch burnouts also. To avoid these electrical hazards, always make sure to use the functioning switch.

Electrical Single Light Switch 1 Gang Double Way

Before you start using a switch, do all the possible tests because once it is done, there is hardly anything you can do to avoid accidents or electrical emergencies.

Selecting the correct switch plays probably the most important role. You have to select the correct type of switch to avoid accidents. The Selection Guide helps you choose a suitable switch for the rated current, operating load, actuator types, and the operating environment. Never forget to use sealed switches for the room having leakages for water to pass easily. We all know what horrific electric hazards water can cause if it comes in contact with switches. To prevent these accidents, make sure those rooms have sealed switches.

Our Factory Photo

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Frequently Asked Questions of Safety Switch

Q: How do safety switches work?

A: On a normal power circuit, the current flowing to an appliance returns through the neutral wire. If the circuit is compromised, the electricity can leak to earth through a person in contact with the appliance, causing death or serious injury. A safety switch detects the loss of power from the circuit, and cuts the supply of electricity in as little as 30 milliseconds – 0.03 seconds. Importantly, this response time is faster than the critical section of a heartbeat, and therefore significantly reduces the risk of death or serious injury.

Q: I have circuit breakers. Is that the same?

A: Circuit breakers and fuses are designed to protect the appliances and electrical fittings in your home. They do not protect human life, and will rarely shut off the power in the event of electric shock. Only safety switches will cut the power to a circuit in the event of earth leakage. Only safety switches can save lives and prevent injuries.

Q: How do i know if i have a safety switch?

A: Safety switches have a “test” button on the front face. If the devices in your switch board do not have a test function, they are probably circuit breakers rather than safety switches. You should use the test button several times each year to test that the safety switch is working properly to cut the power. To minimize inconvenience, this can be done at the time clocks are adjusted at the start and finish of daylight savings time. Home owners can also take advantage of any power outage to test their safety switches, after the power is reconnected but before resetting their appliances.

Q: I have a safety switch. Am i protected?

A: Many homes have safety switches on the power outlet circuits, and some have safety switches on the lighting circuits. But in most homes, other circuits such as pools, air-conditioners, hot water systems, and stoves are not protected. For the highest possible level of protection, you need a safety switch on every circuit. A safety switch should always be considered a secondary safety response; it is not a substitute for good old-fashioned common sense around electricity. A person who receives an electric shock from a circuit protected by a safety switch may still feel the current for an instant, and experience pain and shock. However, they are much more likely to survive than they would if the circuit was unprotected.

Q: How many safety switches do i need?

A: While the laws in each state and territory differ we recommend that ALL circuits in ALL homes be retrofitted with safety switches. These circuits include, power points, lights, stove, hot water system, pool, air conditioner, etc.

Q: Are safety switches expensive?

A: A licensed electrician will need to install your safety switches to ensure your house is protected correctly. Generally, you would be looking at paying a standard electrician’s service fee for the service which is ordinarily in the vicinity of a few hundred dollars. Some homes, dependant on the quality and size of their switchboards may require upgrades which would increase that cost. Contact your local licensed electrician for a definitive quote.

Q: How reliable are safety switches?

A: Under each state Electricity Act, a safety switch is a declared article. This means that a manufacturer must submit a formal test report on the operational characteristics of the safety switch. This report is then compared to the standard for compliance. Once satisfied, an approval is then issued. This approval must be marked on the product and is then able to be sold. To meet this need for testing is quite onerous and therefore the need to ensure quality and reliability is highly desirable by the manufacturers.

Q: Do i have to ‘test’ safety switches?

A: Safety switches need to be tested regularly to ensure the mechanism works freely. Testing should be done every three months. As a guide, you should test them when you receive your electricity account. Testing the safety switch is really easy, simply push the button marked ‘T’ or ‘test’. The safety switch should trip and reset by closing, job done. Be aware that some appliances will need to be reset after this test, such as clock radios.

Q: What happens if i cannot reset the safety switch?

A: This may mean that there is an inherent fault on the circuit and will therefore need the expertise of an electrician to inspect and repair this situation.

Q: How long will a safety switch last?

A: Under the current standard, a safety switch is manufactured to last for a period of 4,000 tests. We encourage home owners to test their switches every three months which indicates that unless there is a significant problem with a device, they should last a lifetime.

Q: What is a general duty safety switch used for?

A: General duty safety switches are used in residential and commercial applications. They are suitable for light duty motor circuits and service entrance applications. Fusible cartridge and non-fusible switches are available.

Q: How do safety switches prevent electrical accidents?

A: Safety switches can prevent electrical accidents by shutting off power when they detect an imbalance in the electrical circuit. This can happen if someone comes into contact with water and electricity, or if there is a faulty power point, wiring, or electrical appliance. Safety switches protect you from electric shock. They turn off the electricity within milliseconds when a current leak is detected.

Q: What are the installation requirements for safety switches?

A: Safety switches should be installed on each sub-circuit, including any that supply fixed electrical equipment like hot water heaters and air-conditioners. In addition, the operation of the safety switch must not be affected by electrical equipment connected to the circuit that may distort the AC waveform.

Q: How often should safety switches be tested and maintained to ensure they are working correctly?

A: Generally speaking, switchgear testing should be completed semi-annually with a visual inspection and infrared completed annually. There may be some factors that would warrant more frequent testing, such as equipment issues or deterioration, manufacturer defects, or high reliability requirements.

Q: Can safety switches protect against all electrical hazards, or are there limitations to their effectiveness?

A: Safety switches can prevent electrocution that could be harmful or potentially fatal with no safety measures in place. During electrical leaks, overloading, short-circuiting, or other problems in the electrical system, safety switches will detect abnormalities and automatically shut off the electricity immediately. However, safety switches only work if they are connected to the faulty circuit and are working properly

Q: How do I find a safety switch in my house?

A: You will find it in your switchboard (usually outside a house. In a unit, it might be in your hallway, kitchen, linen cupboard or in a shared area, such as a 'common property' garage or power room). The switchboard is typically located near the power meter at the front of your home. In some homes, the switchboard may be located in a cabinet or cupboard. Safety switches look slightly different on each switchboard but always have a 'T' or 'Test' button.

Q: What are some common causes of safety switch failures and how can they be prevented?

A: If during the test your safety switch didn't make a sound and didn't switch off any lights or appliances, then it has failed. Contact your electrician to have it checked immediately as you will not be protected from electrical faults. Reasons your safety switch might trip:
overloaded power sockets or power boards.
faulty appliances.
faults your home wiring.
water in the walls or ceiling affecting the power circuit

Q: What should you do if your safety switch trips frequently or fails to operate correctly?

A: If you find the appliance causing the tripping, keep it unplugged and ensure a qualified appliance repair technician takes a look at it. If your safety switch is still remaining on 'OFF', or keeps tripping, give a licensed electrician a call and they can assess the problem.

Q: Are safety switches mandatory in all states and territories of Australia?

A: By law, safety switches for power points and lighting circuits must be installed in new homes and buildings where electrical circuits are added or altered. A safety switch quickly turns off the electricity supply if an electrical fault is detected. They are considered a back-up and don't prevent all electric shocks.

As one of the most professional safety switch manufacturers and suppliers in China, we're featured by quality products and competitive price. Please rest assured to buy buy customized safety switch made in China here from our factory. Contact us for quotation.

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