Most of us have a basic idea of what power surge means. We know it is something that affects the electric power we receive and that it can cause serious damage to industrial equipment, computers, and sensitive electronics. To offer a simple definition, a power surge is a fluctuation of the voltage coming in through ... Read More
AutomationDirect has extended its offering of surge protection devices to include Mersen’s Surge-Trap® Type 1 STXR series. With its small, compact design and line or load installation flexibility, the series is the perfect fit for branch panel and/or individual equipment protection.
Not far from the corporate offices of Socomec lies one of Europe’s greatest treasures – the Strasbourg Cathedral. This beautiful gothic structure is known for its massive stone foundation, soaring spires, and stained glass windows. It’s a symbol of ancient beauty, inspiring architecture, and 250 years of labor by ordinary people to create something extraordinary. ... Read More
AutomationDirect offers Edison’s modular knifeblade fuse blocks for Class J and Class R fuses to simplify design and enhance safety. Optional high-clarity, see-through, IP20 finger-safe covers, with or without indication, have a built-in lockout/tagout feature which improves safety by preventing unauthorized fuse insertion or removal.
In 1911, automobile and truck use was starting to become widespread, and the world was on the brink of its First World War. A small company was started when patented gear-driven truck axle inventor Viggo Torbensen teamed up with Joseph Oriel (J.O.) Eaton, an aspiring young businessman, to found Torbensen Gear and Axle Company, the ... Read More
AutomationDirect has added Socomec disconnect switches to its list of circuit protection products. These switches provide make and break power under load and most styles are front, right side, flange or direct handle operable. A wide variety of accessories, such as handles, shafts, auxiliary contacts, additional poles and more are also available. SIRCO M compact ... Read More
Circuit Protection is a big topic. With so many types of products available, coupled with the fact that I think I am getting old, I have found that it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep it all straight. If you share in this frustration, no worries because conveniently located below is a chart that I think might ... Read More
For those who work in electrical design, a prominent concern is circuit protection. While a lot of circuit protection technologies exist, it is most common to guard against overcurrent situations. Overcurrent protection can be achieved by incorporating fuses or circuit breakers along the primary power feed. But which of these devices do you use for branch ... Read More
Fuses are sacrificial devices used to protect much more expensive electrical components from the damaging effects of overcurrent. Fuses consist of a low-resistance metal or wire that is used to close a circuit. When too much current flows through the low resistance element of the fuse, the element melts and breaks the circuit. This keeps the ... Read More
Those of us who have worked with, or around, electrical equipment have witnessed electrical arcs. At the very least, we’ve seen the sparks produced when a relay or contactor switches off. This is easily observed by watching a motor starter with open contacts. When the motor turns on,
