Modular equipment

Modular devices refers to the whole set of electrical devices designed for mounting on a 35 mm DIN rail in distribution panels. These components provide protection, isolation, control and measurement of low-voltage circuits. The ranges cover functions from circuit breakers to time-delay relays, with standardised widths of 1 to 4 modules depending on the function, in compliance with the requirements of NF C 15-100 and the applicable IEC standards for each family.

Product families and functions covered by modular devices

Circuit protection and isolation in modular devices

Modular circuit breakers, residual current devices and switch-disconnectors form the core of an electrical panel's protection. Our installation experience confirms that correctly sizing the rating and curve type (B, C, D according to IEC 60898-1) directly determines the selectivity and withstand capability of installations. Modular surge protective devices, meeting IEC 61643, complete this protection by limiting the overvoltages transmitted to sensitive equipment.

Control, automation and measurement on DIN rail

Time-delay relays, timers and residual current relays allow loads to be controlled using time or threshold logic. Modular time switches — analogue, digital or astronomical — provide time programming for lighting or heating circuits. In the field, we find that clock-contactor coupling remains a frequent source of wiring error when the installer does not have the appropriate wiring diagram.

Auxiliary power supplies and modular signalling

DC power supplies on DIN rail provide the DC voltages needed by automation systems, sensors or supervision equipment. Feedback from design offices shows that concentrating these functions on the same mounting support simplifies maintenance and reduces space in control panels.

Multi-brand choice and technical-economic trade-offs

Premium ranges and cost-effective solutions in modular devices

Our catalogue brings together recognised manufacturers in the sector: Socomec, Schneider Electric, Hager, Legrand, Eaton, as well as Finder and Lettel for control and measurement functions. This diversity allows a trade-off between high-performance technical ranges and budget-oriented solutions, without compromising compliance with current standards.

Sizing advice and reducing selection errors

We find that the most common errors involve clock-contactor coupling, the choice of surge protective device type (class I, II or III), and matching the residual current device's rating to the required sensitivity. Our standard practice favours systematically checking these points during assembly in the workshop or on site.

Applications and installation contexts for modular devices

Residential and tertiary electrical panels

In multi-occupancy housing and offices, standardised modular devices make it easier to extend existing panels. Polyamide housings provide reliable electrical insulation and mechanical resistance compatible with repeated handling on site.

Control panels and industrial distribution

Industrial environments impose constraints in terms of withstand to electromagnetic disturbances and component availability. Our commissioning tests show that consistent DIN-rail fixings significantly reduce intervention times and the risk of incorrect removal.

Frequently asked questions

Which standard applies to modular circuit breakers within modular devices?

Modular circuit breakers comply with IEC 60898-1, which defines their operating characteristics, mechanical and electrical withstand, and standardised tripping curves (B, C, D).

How should you choose between an analogue, digital and astronomical DIN-rail time switch?

The analogue time switch suits simple, fixed programming. The digital time switch offers greater setting precision with daily or weekly schedules. The astronomical time switch automatically calculates sunrise and sunset times based on geographic location, removing the need for manual seasonal adjustments.

What is the difference between a surge arrester and a surge protective device in modular devices?

The term surge arrester traditionally refers to a device protecting against overvoltages of atmospheric origin. Surge protective device is a broader term also covering overvoltages of industrial or switching origin. In practice, modular devices certified to IEC 61643 provide both functions depending on their test class.

Why choose a multi-brand supply source for modular devices?

A single supply point for several brands allows ranges to be standardised on a given project or, conversely, allows costs to be optimised by mixing references according to the criticality of the function. Our installation feedback shows that this flexibility reduces restocking delays if a specific range runs out.