Does a 60 Amp toggle switch exist? 1

[DERCANDYMANN]

I'm building an electric-assist bicycle with a current power suppy of 24VDC @ 48A and an auxillery supply of 24VDC @ 17A. The power controller I have can accomadate up to 60A at the same voltage so there's room for improvement. To maintain this possiblity however, I need an On-Off-On toggle switch cappable of handling a constant 60Amps. I also require a keyed, On-Off switch that can handle the same current for safety/security reasons. I've searched many places on and off the internet and I can't seem to locate either type of switch.

Does anyone have a lead or link to a store that supplies/produces such toggle switches if such things exist?

-DERCANDYMANN
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

 

[MikeHalloran]

They might exist, but I've never seen switches that big.

The traditional solution is DC Contactors (think Ford starter relays) controlled by regular switches.



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[jraef]

Semantics problem. "Toggle" switches describe a small light duty device. Look for what are called "battery switches", used a lot in the marine industry. They are not "toggle" per se, they are usually rotary switches, but they will do what you want. You can also look into a 60A DC Circuit breaker, it will have that toggle style operation. A search for "DC Disconnect switch" will turn up a lot of hits as well, however because of the Solar industry you many end up flooded with stuff you don't want.




"If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I'd spend six sharpening my axe." -- Abraham Lincoln
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[wayne440]

If there is a golf car dealer/repairman near you, stop by and take a look around.

 

[DERCANDYMANN]

Ahh, thank you all very much! These new keywords are very helpful indeed. I feel smarter now. Thanks again!

-DERCANDYMANN
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

 

[waross]

Look for battery disconnect switches at an industrial supply house. You can buy one from Caterpillar at Caterpillar prices, or get one for a lot less from an industrial supplier. These are small enough for a bicycle, key or handle operated (quarter turn) and will handle hundreds of amps. They are used as safety disconnect switches on diesel equipment and will handle starting currents on a large diesel engine.
Look at these:

http://www.colehersee.com/catalog_top/index.htm

Click on: Battery-Related Products
Click on: Battery Disconnect Switches
Click on: Next
For key operated switches find "Hencol lock & two keys" in the actuator field.
Note: these keys are widely available. Almost anyone who has operated cats or Cat loaders will have one on his key ring.
For an electronic relay, go to:

http://relays.tycoelectronics.com/auto.asp

and look for:
V23130-C High Current Devices, Battery Disconnect Switch BDS-A


Bill
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Jimmy Carter