ABB has introduced its range of OTDC switch disconnectors for DC applications up to 1,500 amperes (A). The unique two pole configuration for 1,000 voltage (V) DC the OTDC is currently the only true 1,000 V DC per polarity switch on the market. The OTDC portfolio now includes solutions for installations with the most special requirements such as 1,500 V DC voltages, multi-circuit switching and combined load outputs above 800 A.

With these new products ABB is bringing the benefits of compactness, safe DC switching and low power losses of the OTDC products to the photovoltaic (PV) applications with higher amperages. The disconnect switches are ideal for disconnecting a solar inverter from the DC side and can be used in combiner boxes for switching of individual PV arrays.

The OTDC switch disconnectors have been designed to support the solar industry’s path towards higher voltages and, most importantly, greater efficiency. Additionally, the traditional 1000 VDC PV disconnects have been expanded to now cover simultaneous switching of three DC circuits up to 500 amperes.

“ABB continues its product expansion in advanced design technology, including reduced number of poles, visible blade technology and compact packaging that makes for higher efficiency and power yield in the solar marketplace,” said Allen Austin, Global Solar Industry Manager for ABB’s Low Voltage Products Division.

One switch, multiple benefits
For installations with more than one circuit, OTDC allows control of two or three circuits simultaneously, with only one switch instead of two or three separate ones.

High performance, compact solution
In some cases, the current levels in some of the largest main inverters may be higher than what OTDC range nominally covers. However, with the existing OTDC switches and ABB connection kits, it is possible to use a tested solution to create outputs of up to 1500 A (IEC) and 800 A (UL). These higher currents achieve up to 37 percent more compact space than corresponding products in the market.

Ready for the future
Nowadays, many systems reach up to 1000 V DC, but one of the trends in photovoltaic industry is the evolution towards higher voltages. ABB is ready to respond to the demands of the global market: OTDC is now available for 1500 V DC from 315 to 500 A (IEC) and from 250 to 400 A (UL).

OTDC from 16 to 32 A, which is now available also for UL508I, has an outstanding thermal performance. The rated currents do not need derating even beyond 60°C (140°F). This makes them ideally suited for hot climates, where OTDC offers reliable performance and energy efficiency.