PowerGuard

Power Disconnect Switch for Maintenance Zones

The PowerGuard switching system, used along with Conductix-Wampfler Power Interrupting Sections, is designed to provide safe maintenance zones for servicing overhead cranes and other mobile equipment. This specially engineered switch array is ideal for three-phase bar systems that use tandem collector assemblies. By employing both the Power Interrupting Sections and PowerGuard, the user can ensure that tandem collectors from adjacent cranes will never accidently transfer live power into the maintenance zone. This is done by assigning a dedicated switch for the Power Interrupting Section's "buffer zone." This isolates the buffer from the powered runway. A third switch then grounds the maintenance zone to make sure the maintenance person is safe while working on the crane. PowerGuard is easy to install and designed for ease of use and safety. A visual indicator on the front panel identifies when power has been removed from the maintenance zone. Voltage test points are also included that can be used to ensure that power has been removed from the maintenance zone.

How it Works

Our Power Interrupting Section (PIS) creates electrically isolated zones of conductor rails so that overhead cranes can be safely maintained. The PIS provides a buffer zone to prevent tandem collectors on live adjacent cranes from bridging across to the maintenance zone. PIS consists of three short sections of conductor rails with an air gap between each section. Each of the three PIS sections has a power feed. The buffer zone is in the middle between the live and maintenance zones. Of the two remaining bar segments, one will be attached to the powered runway. The other will be attached to the maintenance zone. The location of the powered section and the maintenance section depends on whether the maintenance zone needs to be to on the right, left, or center.

Features

Grounded maintenance zone
Designed specifically for the application
Three switch sets for safe operation
Single-handle or Kirk^® Key design for error-free operation
Visual voltage indicator
Voltage test points

Benefits

Total Safety: Isolates and grounds the maintenance zone, protecting personnel
Simple Operation: Single-handle or Kirk® Key design minimizes errors
Clear Indicators: Visual panel and voltage test points confirm the zone is de-energized
Custom Fit: Available in NEMA 12, NEMA 4X, and DC versions, with amperages from 100 to 1600

Specification

The PowerGuard Switching System, combined with Conductix-Wampfler Power Interrupting Sections (PIS), provides safe, isolated maintenance zones for overhead cranes and mobile equipment. Built by a UL 508 panel shop and cULus listed, PowerGuard ensures maximum safety by preventing live power transfer from adjacent cranes.

Current Capacity Options: 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1200, 1600 A
Voltage: 600 V
End, Center, and Non-Ground Center Available
Built by UL 508 panel shot and cULus listed

With its easy installation, safety certifications, and reliable performance, PowerGuard ensures safe, compliant maintenance operations, protecting your team and keeping your facility running smoothly.

Downloads

Product Bulletin - PowerGuard

PDF | 624.14 KB

Language: English

Document type: Brochures

Download

FAQ

Are custom solutions available?

Our standard offerings cover nearly all application requirements. If your application is not covered, please contact us.

What makes our switch different than other offerings?

The Conductix-Wampfler PowerGuard works on a three-switch system. This allows for power to be removed from both the buffer and maintenance zones and for the maintenance zone to be ground. Most offerings do not create a grounded maintenance zone, and the maintenance zone and buffer zone are electrically tied to the switch. In this situation, a tandem collector from an adjacent crane could bridge power to the buffer zone, which would then power the maintenance zone through the switch. In the Conductix-Wampfler solution, the maintenance zone is ground, which does not allow for that power transfer through the switch.

What type of rail system can these be used on?

The Conductix-Wampfler PowerGuard will work on any conductor rail system using Power Interrupting Sections where the maximum amp draw does not exceed 1600 A. The maximum amp draw for the switches can be calculated a bit differently than the bar. For assistance with switch calculations, please contact us.

What is the importance of a grounded maintenance zone?

A grounded maintenance will ensure that the space is safe to use by maintenance personnel. The grounding of the maintenance zone guarantees that as a tandem collector moves into the buffer zone power is not transferred into the maintenance zone through the switch. If the maintenance zone were ungrounded and a live tandem collector moved into the buffer zone the maintenance zone could become powered endangering any personnel working in that area.

How do I choose the correct switch?

Sizing PowerGuard correctly is important in ensuring our solution meets the customer’s specific needs. The information below provides guidance for correctly sizing PowerGuard.

Option 1: Add up the max. amperage of all cranes that operate on the runway. Choose a switch amperage that matches the total; if no exact match is available, choose the next highest amperage.

Option 2: If a system has an end maintenance zone, the disconnect can be sized based on the maximum amperage of all cranes that would be in the maintenance zone at a given time. If multiple power feeds are used and/or the maintenance zone is not an end maintenance zone please contact Conductix-Wampfler for assistance.