Shutdown solutions for photovoltaic systems enable the fire department to de-energize the photovoltaic system in the event of a house fire. This is one of the prerequisites so that extinguishing work can be carried out safely. One solution for this is the PV Next fireman’s switch from Weidmüller.
“The PV Next fireman’s switch automatically disconnects PV modules from the grid in the event of a fire — different connection types ensure maximum flexibility during installation.”
- Pascal Niggemann, Head of Photovoltaic Systems Home & Business
Fireman’s switch enables firefighters to work safely
The flow of electricity from the photovoltaic modules is interrupted as soon as the power supply inside or outside the house is switched off. In this way, firefighters are able to work safely and fires can be extinguished more quickly. “The PV Next allows for easy and space-saving installation directly under the roof, as well as fully autonomous and energy-saving switching on and off,” says Niggemann. Moreover, the additional combination of PV strings in the solution achieves cable savings of up to 50 percent by reducing the amount of cable routing to the inverter.
Simplicity, safety, time savings
The “PV Next” is the world’s first generator junction box based on a standardized PCB design. The advantages: Simplicity, safety and time savings. “The innovative concept covers around 90 percent of today’s standard requirements, enabling photovoltaic installers to work faster and save costs,” emphasizes Niggemann. The integrated PUSH IN technology reduces installation times and minimizes the risk of errors and the resulting consequences.
Switch-off time is milliseconds
The switch-off time of the PV Next fireman’s switch is around three milliseconds, which means that the resulting arc travels away very quickly. Another advantage is that energy consumption only occurs in the event of a shutdown and is not permanent.
