ABB SA801F Auxiliary Switch and Signal Contact

Key Features and Functional Highlights

• Multi-Status Indication: Capable of providing distinct electrical signals for three primary breaker positions: Circuit Open (OFF), Circuit Closed (ON), and Circuit Breaker Tripped.
• Spring Charged Indication: Includes a dedicated micro-switch or contact arrangement to signal whether the breaker’s closing springs are charged and ready for operation, which is crucial for ensuring the breaker can close on command.
• Modular Snap-On Design: Engineered for rapid installation directly onto the SACE Emax 2 breaker mechanism without the need for complex wiring or tools. It snaps securely into place, reducing installation time and potential wiring errors.
• High-Reliability Contacts: Utilizes silver-alloy or gold-plated contacts to ensure low contact resistance and high resistance to oxidation, even in harsh environments with high humidity or corrosive atmospheres.
• Changeover Contact Configuration: Typically configured with changeover contacts (SPDT – Single Pole Double Throw), allowing a single module to provide both a Normally Open (NO) and a Normally Closed (NC) signal for the same status, simplifying wiring logic.
• Mechanical Durability: Built to withstand the rigorous mechanical shocks associated with the high-energy operation of air circuit breakers, with a mechanical life expectancy matching or exceeding that of the main breaker unit (often exceeding 100,000 operations).
• Front-Accessible Reset: In the event of a trip indication, the auxiliary switch often allows for a manual reset from the front of the panel, or it resets automatically when the breaker is racked out or reset.

Technical Specifications

• Product Series: SACE Emax 2 Accessories
• Device Type: Auxiliary Switch / Auxiliary Contact Block
• Compatibility: Exclusively designed for SACE Emax 2 Air Circuit Breakers (Fixed and Withdrawable types).
• Rated Insulation Voltage (Ui): 690 V AC
• Rated Operational Voltage (Ue): 690 V AC / 250 V DC
• Rated Operational Current (Ie): 10 A (AC-15) / 5 A (DC-13)
• Number of Poles: Typically 1 to 4 poles depending on the specific signaling requirements (e.g., 1 NO + 1 NC for position, 1 NO for spring charge).
• Contact Material: Silver Cadmium Oxide (AgCdO) or Silver Nickel (AgNi) for high current switching capability.
• Mechanical Life: Up to 1,000,000 operations (depending on load and frequency).
• Electrical Life: Up to 100,000 operations at rated load.
• Operating Temperature: -25°C to +70°C (Storage: -40°C to +85°C).
• Protection Class: IP20 (when mounted in the enclosure).
• Standards Compliance: IEC 60947-5-1, IEC 60947-1, UL, CSA, CCC.

Application Scenarios

The ABB SA801F is a fundamental component in low-voltage power distribution systems where remote monitoring and control are required:

• Industrial Switchgear: Used in Main Low Voltage Boards (MLVBs) and Motor Control Centers (MCCs) to send status signals to PLCs and DCS systems in factories, refineries, and processing plants.
• Power Distribution Networks: In utility substations and commercial building distribution boards to trigger alarm bells or indicator lights when a feeder breaker trips.
• Interlocking Systems: Critical for safety interlocks, such as preventing a generator from being connected to the grid if the main incomer breaker is open, or preventing the rack-out of a withdrawable breaker if it is in the ON position.
• Marine and Railway: Deployed in shipboard switchboards and railway traction power substations where vibration resistance and high reliability are mandatory.
• Data Centers: Used in critical power infrastructure to provide immediate feedback to the Building Management System (BMS) regarding the status of UPS output breakers and feeder circuits.
• Renewable Energy: In solar and wind power collection systems to monitor the status of string combiners and inverter output breakers.