Other features of the new LBV range from Eaton MEM Circuit Protection and Control include a moulded housing which protects the contact mechanism and yet provides visual indication of contact separation, and clip-and-blade wiping contacts.

The moulded, insulated housing protects the contact mechanism against the ingress of dust and foreign bodies. It also supports the fixed contact assembly so that each contact is isolated from the operating mechanism in the OFF position.

Clip-and-blade wiping action contacts give reliable operation and zero contact bounce. Each contact pair comprises two silver-plated copper contacts. Each pole has separate arc shutes for effective arc extinction. A ‘stored-energy’ over-centre mechanism ensures efficient operator-independent switching.

There are nine different ratings from 40A to 1600A. The switches are fully rated for AC21 and AC22 duty and have enhanced AC23 performance (40A - 1250A).

Incoming and outgoing terminals on the 40A and 63A units have box clamp terminals while units from 125A upwards use tinned copper lugs.

Eaton Corporation is a global $7.2 billion diversified industrial manufacturer that is a leader in fluid power systems; electrical power quality, distribution and control; automotive engine air management and fuel economy; and intelligent drive train systems for fuel economy and safety in trucks. Eaton has 51,000 employees and sells products in more than 50 countries.