Continue to Site

Eng-Tips is the largest engineering community on the Internet

Intelligent Work Forums for Engineering Professionals

  • Congratulations KootK on being selected by the Eng-Tips community for having the most helpful posts in the forums last week. Way to Go!

Load Interruptor Switch Location

Status
Not open for further replies.

slushin

Electrical
Aug 6, 2010
24
Hi all!

Does anyone know if there is any language among the codes which states where a load interrupt switch needs to be located? I have a load interrupt switch which separates a generator from downstream loads. The generator is on floor level and the contractor is proposing putting the load interrupt switch on another floor due to field interferences. My thought is that you would want the load interrupt switch within eyesight of the generator, but that's purely opinion. Your thoughts are much appreciated.

 
Replies continue below

Recommended for you

Code is not a design manual, but it has certain over current protection and disconnect requirements that may influence the design. Plus your post lacks other information as to what is the function of this switch? Is it just a isolation switch for maintenance? Will it have fuses for overcurrent protection of load or conductors?

What protects the conductors/bus between the gen and the switch? I think you should get an professinal opinion on or review of your design.



Rafiq Bulsara
 
There is a paralleling gear with breakers (as well as a transformer) between the generator and switch. The purpose of the switch is isolation for maintenance.

My apologies for the lack of detail. I figured that people would be more willing to read and respond to a shorter post.

I'm not looking for someone to design this system for me; I'm just wondering if anyone has encountered this question in the past and had to deal with it.
 
From what you describe, line of sight would generally not be required. It should have padlocking ability in open position, I would think. You should check codes applicable to your installation.

And you are right, at least I tend to ignore too long posts.

Rafiq Bulsara
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

Part and Inventory Search

Sponsor