E. Preston (Electrical) Ltd

ABB has extended its compact range of switches as part of its on-going replacement program for the OETL and OESA ranges. Up to 48% smaller in size, the OS and OT switches are ideal for applications where time, cost and space are at a premium.

ABB’s OT switch disconnectors and OS fuse switch-disconnectors can be used as the main switch in low voltage switchgear for power distribution, starting and stopping of motors and isolating loads during maintenance. Available in metal or plastic enclosures, they can be used as safety switches to prevent accidental starting of machines. As further protection, the external operating handles have been double-insulated, which eliminates the chance of touching live parts. The fuse covers also cannot be opened when the switch fuse is on.

The reduced size of both OT and OS switches means that almost double the number of panels can be fitted onto a board that is approximately 1.3m x 2.3m, compared to their OETL and OESA range equivalents. This is ideal for installations where space is limited or at a premium.

Both OT and OS switches can be installed vertically or horizontally, enabling users to position them according to the location of the incoming supply. They are fully rated for both enclosed and open environments, negating the need for extra space if the switches are being used in an enclosure.

The OT range is available from 16A up to 800A. The OS range provides coverage from 16A, up to 400A, with the OESA continuing to provide up to 800A.

Both the OT and OS switches feature a mechanically-based design, with metal parts and double brake switching as standard. These features help to prolong the operational life of the products compared to units from other manufacturers which typically use plastic and ceramic parts. It also increases safety by providing double isolation from live parts. Further safety is provided by arc-chutes, which prevent current sparks and flashovers.

The OT range is IP20 protected, providing extensive protection against impacts from small objects such as debris being expelled by a nearby machine. It also has a patented operator independent quick-make / quick-break mechanism, providing better responsiveness and reliability when in use.

With the neutral wrapped around the main switch mechanism combining to make one unit, the OT and OS switches save space, as opposed to separate space being required for the neutral connection outside of the switch.

Two-pole or one pole versions of the switches can be produced on request. The OT and OS ranges are modular in design, providing increased flexibility on installation. Adjustable mounting feet allow the feet to be fitted at 45 or 90 degree angles.

The switches are suitable for a number of applications, ranging from motor control centres to acting as a main switch in machine applications. OT and OS switches are commonly used by water authorities, transport rail networks and in offshore applications.

ABB have also introduced change-over switches to their OT range. Available from 160A up to 800A, the change-over switches are two switches in one, and increase the ways in which the switches can be applied. It also reduces the need for separate change-over mechanisms.

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ABB has released a new family of terminal blocks that dramatically reduce installation times without compromising safety. Based on ABB’s insulation displacement connection (IDC) technology, the new ADO system terminal blocks can reduce wiring times by up to 80% compared with conventional terminal blocks.

The system eliminates the most common risks associated with connections, such as forgetting to strip the wire, folding over of wire strands, stripping too much wire, incorrect tightening torque or badly inserted terminal ends.

The ADO system uses a hand-operated tool to enable the operator to execute simple and accurate high-speed wiring and cutting. By ensuring a tight connection every time, ADO terminal blocks eliminate the problem of loose screw terminations, maximising safety in heavy industrial applications subject to vibration and shocks and reducing subsequent maintenance time and cost.

When a connection is made, the tool strips away the wire insulation and pushes the non-prepared conductor cable into a cutting jaw, which holds it tight and ensures a sound electrical contact. The manual tool has been specially designed for on-site maintenance and can remain permanently inside a panel. A semi-automatic version is also available, which enables repeated connections to be made quickly with minimum effort from the installer.

For wiring flexibility, users can choose ADO system blocks with an IDC termination on both sides or with a combination of IDC and screw clamp terminations.

Another key benefit of ABB’s ADO system blocks is their reduced size. Up to 50 terminals can be installed per foot of DIN rail, helping to reduce the overall installation space compared to conventional terminal blocks. Further space savings are also achieved by the terminal’s ability to accept two similar wires into each termination. The ADO system terminal blocks are available as standard mounted on DIN3 rail.

A ‘mini’ version is also available for installations with severe size constraints. Up to 25% smaller than the standard IDC blocks, the ‘mini’ blocks are ideal for reduced space environments. For mounting, mini block models are offered for DIN 2 or DIN 3 rails. Other models can be screwed or snapped directly onto a metal chassis, such as a panel mount. For wiring flexibility, mini IDC blocks are available with insulation displacement on one side and a standard screw clamp on the other. The 6-mm wide block is rated 18 A, the 8-mm wide block 25 A.

All ADO system blocks are UL recognized, CSA certified, 600 V up to 25 A, and meet IEC and VDE standards. In addition to the ADO system blocks, ABB also offers terminal blocks with screw clamp and spring connections.

ABB also offers an ATEX certified terminal block range for safe use in explosive atmospheres. The range is certified to the highest possible level of the ATEX directive 94/9/EC European directive.

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ABB Limited has launched a new microprocessor-based relay device offering comprehensive protection for utility, industrial and marine feeder applications. Featuring a wide range of protection functions, the REF610 feeder protection relay offers a versatile device for protection of incoming and outgoing feeders as well as back-up for motors, generators and transformers.

The REF610 provides complete protection against overcurrent and earth faults. In addition to single, two and three-stage overcurrent and earth fault protection functions, the REF610 also features thermal overload protection, phase discontinuity protection, trip-circuit supervision and multi-shot auto-reclosing for automatic clearing of line faults.

Where an electrical disturbance or fault does occur, its details are recorded by the REF610’s in-built disturbance recorder, triggered by a start or a trip signal or by a digital input signal. Utilising microprocessor technology, the recorder collects instantaneous values or RMS values of measured signals via four analogue channels or up to eight selectable digital channels.

Based on a withdrawable ‘plug and play’ cassette design, the REF610 can be easily fitted and removed, greatly reducing the amount of downtime required for installation, testing and maintenance. Based on two separate units, this design automatically closes off the current transformer when the unit is removed, enabling work to be carried out safely without shutting off the supply.

Added reliability is ensured by the inclusion of a self-supervision system that continuously monitors the operation of both the relay electronics and software and ensures that users are alerted of any faults. This, combined with a long mean time between failure (MTBF), enables the REF610 to offer high availability.

A key strength of the REF610 is its user-friendliness. Parameters are displayed in plain text on an LCD screen. These parameters can be programmed using the push buttons on the front of the unit, via serial communication using a computer connected to the communication port or remotely through a control or monitoring system connected through the unit’s serial communication bus.

The REF610 features a range of communication options, including SPA-bus slave, MODBUS, IEC 60870-5-103 and DNP 3.0. It can also communicate wirelessly with a laptop computer if required.

The REF610’s compact size and small mounting depth makes it ideal for retrofits and confined space installations. Optional mounting kits for 19″ racks, as well as for semi-flush mounting with raising and 45° tilted raising frames also offers a choice of installation arrangements.

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ABB’s Power Circuit Breakers are the result of ABB’s constant commitment to look for new solutions with their “know how” capabilities developed over the years.

These incredibly innovative, high quality circuit breaker ranges are designed to satisfy all application requirements. This evolution has been ongoing since 1942. The current ranges offer T Max up to 630amp, Isomax up to 3200amp and the new E Max ACB range up to 6300amps, all of which are available through E. Preston (Electrical) Ltd.

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Considering the history of ABB includes the likes of ASEA, Brown Boveri, Stromberg, Schiele and MTE control gear products, it is hardly surprising that their Contactor ranges are so versatile.

E Preston (Electrical) Ltd are happy to supply “A” range contactors, Bar & Shaft contactors, Installation contactors and Mini contactors together with the wealth of associated products from ABB.  Whatever the application, and wherever it is required, ABB have the answers.

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Since the acquisition of Entrelec by ABB, E. Preston (Electrical) Ltd have been pleased to support all the Terminal Products now available from ABB. 

The screw, spring and ADO system (The most reliable and secure insulation displacement system available ), means that ABB can offer the most comprehensive range of Terminal Products available on the market today.

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ABB’s  Miniature Circuit Breakers have been at the forefront of breaker technology from their original patent back in 1928 to today.

E. Preston (Electrical) Ltd are pleased to confirm that they are also supplying the brand new System Pro M Compact MCB from ABB - a range which comprises every circuit breaker, RCD, command and control device that the market requires.

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E. Preston Electrical’s association with ABB dates back to the start of the company in 1980 when the Stromberg product range helped to develop sales for low voltage electrical components.

This continues today with the new OS and OT Switchgear options which compliment the existing Switch Fuse and Isolator ranges from ABB showing their commitment and desire to maintain their position on the world marketplace for switchgear products.

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