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    Switch disconnectors for photovoltaic systems

    Depending on the system design, a PV installation requires safe isolation on both the DC and AC sides. A DC switch disconnector separates the modules from the inverter. An AC switch disconnector is installed on the grid side.

    For three-phase PV systems where the neutral must also be switched, plica deliberately offers 3P+N AC switch disconnectors. The dedicated neutral pole closes before the phases and opens after them.

    3P+N AC switch disconnector for photovoltaic systems
    3P+N Three phases and neutral
    N first ON / N last OFF Neutral closes first · Neutral opens last
    16–1600 A Broad AC range

    What is the difference between 4P and 3P+N?

    Both descriptions refer to a device with four current paths. The function of the fourth pole is what matters.

    4P

    4P: four equally treated poles

    In a general 4P version, all four poles are treated as equivalent switching poles. Without a defined neutral function, the fourth pole is not automatically guaranteed to close first and open last.

    L1L2L34P
    3P+N

    3P+N: three phases plus neutral

    With 3P+N, the fourth pole is expressly designed as the neutral pole. The Scame versions used have an early-make and late-break neutral function.

    L1L2L3N

    Why 3P+N in the PV range?

    In a three-phase PV installation with neutral, the defined sequence prevents the phases from being momentarily connected without a neutral. plica therefore uses 3P+N versions for AC switch disconnectors with neutral.

    A 3P+N device is technically also four-pole. Some manufacturers therefore state 4P (3P+N). The data sheet must confirm the early-make / late-break neutral function.

    Assign AC and DC isolation correctly

    DC

    DC side

    The DC switch disconnector is installed between the PV generator and inverter. It must be rated for the DC voltage, string current and switching concept.

    AC

    AC side

    The AC switch disconnector is installed on the grid side of the inverter. A 3P+N version is used where the neutral must also be switched.

    Not interchangeable: An AC switch disconnector must not replace a DC switch disconnector. DC imposes different requirements for breaking capacity and arc extinction.

    Installer-friendly design

    The compact TP version shown combines clear position indication with generous wiring space and flexible cable entries.

    Interior view of a 3P+N switch disconnector
    Easily accessible terminals and generous wiring space
    Open enclosure of a 3P+N switch disconnector
    Reversible base with prepared cable entries

    Switch disconnector advantages in the video

    The short plica video presents the robust design, clear operation and installer-friendly details.

    Open video on YouTube

    How to select a PV switch disconnector

    When is 3P+N required?

    Three-phase AC system with switched neutral

    3P+N is suitable when the three phases and neutral must be isolated together on the AC side. Whether the neutral must be switched depends on the earthing system, system design and inverter requirements.

    What do early make and late break mean?

    The neutral remains connected during switching

    When switching on, the neutral closes before the phases. When switching off, it opens after them.

    Is every four-pole switch automatically 3P+N?

    No, the data sheet is decisive

    A device may have four poles without a dedicated neutral sequence. The 3P+N function must be explicitly confirmed.

    Which current ranges are available?

    From compact devices to high power

    The PV category includes 3P+N AC switch disconnectors from 16 A to 1600 A and separate DC switch disconnectors from 16 A to 40 A.

    Suitable switch disconnectors for your PV system

    Choose between 3P+N AC switch disconnectors and dedicated DC switch disconnectors.

    Need help?

    We are here for you and will be happy to advise you. Call us, send us a message or request a callback.

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