Disconnect switch

A switch-disconnector is a low-voltage switching and isolating device that guarantees visible separation of the contacts for operator safety. It differs from a simple disconnector in its ability to establish, carry and break load currents according to utilisation categories AC-22 and AC-23. The ranges cover ratings from 16 A to 5000 A in AC and up to 2000 VDC for photovoltaic installations, in compliance with the IEC 60947-3 and NF C 15-100 standards.

Switch-disconnector ranges for every electrical application

Modular switch-disconnectors and machine-control switches SIRCO M

The SIRCO M range covers ratings from 16 to 125 A for modular mounting on DIN rail. Our installation experience confirms its effectiveness at the head of sub-distribution boards and for emergency switching on industrial machines. The compactness of these devices allows safety isolation to be integrated into reduced-footprint enclosures without compromising electrical performance.

Visible-break switch-disconnectors SIRCO MV and distribution SIRCO / SIDER / SIDERMAT

The SIRCO MV provides visible contact break for ratings from 100 to 160 A, while the SIRCO, SIDER and SIDERMAT ranges extend from 125 to 5000 A for power distribution at the rear of the panel. Our installation feedback shows that a fully visible or visible break gives the electrician the essential visual certainty before any maintenance work. These devices meet the demanding AC-22 and AC-23 utilisation categories for the most exacting industrial uses.

Photovoltaic DC isolation and fuse combination

The SIRCO PV, SIRCO MC PV and INOSYS LBS ranges isolate photovoltaic circuits up to 2000 VDC in compliance with EIA/IEC requirements. FUSERBLOC and FUSOMAT combine isolation and fuse protection up to 1250 A. In the field, we find that this integration reduces panel space while meeting the mandatory head-of-installation isolation requirements set out in NF C 15-100.

Materials, finishes and accessories for switch-disconnectors

Mechanical construction and enclosure strength

Bodies and handles are made of reinforced polyamide and polycarbonate, and silver-plated copper contacts ensure conductivity and arc resistance. Plastic-enclosure versions in the S3 series achieve an IP65 protection rating for surface mounting in demanding environments. Our standard practice favours these enclosures for tertiary and industrial installations exposed to dust or water splashing.

Accessory modularity and stock optimisation

A wide range of accessories completes the switch-disconnector offer: direct or external handles, auxiliary contacts, operating shafts. This modularity allows a single bare device to be adapted to numerous configurations without multiplying stock references. Feedback from installers confirms that this flexibility significantly reduces spare-parts management costs on large-scale projects.

Standards and certifications applicable to low-voltage isolation

International compliance and French regulations

Switch-disconnectors comply with the IEC 60947-3 standard, which sets out operating, isolation and short-circuit withstand rules. NF C 15-100 makes isolation mandatory at the head of the installation for personal safety. Some versions also hold UL508 and UL98 certifications for export or for equipment integrated into North American-certified assemblies.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a switch-disconnector and a simple disconnector?

A switch-disconnector can establish, carry and break load currents according to defined utilisation categories, whereas a disconnector is designed only to open or close a circuit once the contacts are already de-energised. This distinction determines the choice according to the switching function required by the installation.

Why does NF C 15-100 require isolation at the head of the installation?

The NF C 15-100 standard requires upstream isolation to guarantee visible, assured separation of the contacts, allowing the electrician to work safely downstream of the installation. The switch-disconnector fulfils this function while also providing the switching capacity needed for normal operations.

Which range should be chosen for a 1500 VDC photovoltaic installation?

The SIRCO PV, SIRCO MC PV and INOSYS LBS ranges are suited to DC isolation for photovoltaic systems up to 2000 VDC in compliance with EIA/IEC requirements. The rating chosen depends on the maximum current of the strings or inverters to be protected, in line with the safety margins recommended by the design office.

Are the IP65 plastic-enclosure versions suitable for outdoor mounting?

The S3 series plastic enclosures with an IP65 rating resist dust and water splashing, making them suitable for surface mounting in demanding industrial or tertiary environments. For prolonged direct exposure to the weather, we recommend checking the UV resistance of the specific material with the manufacturer.