Plug-on installation and connectivity are just a couple of the features added to the Acti9 Isobar P range that we think contractors are going to love.
Electrical contractors are always under pressure to deliver projects as quickly and cheaply as possible. Every so often, we see new products hit the market that offers genuine innovation to help contractors meet these demands. This is exactly what Schneider Electric provides with the new Acti9 Isobar P range.
Isobar P is the latest addition to the Acti9 range of low voltage (LV) distribution boards from Schneider Electric. It consists of a comprehensive range of distribution boards, RCBOs and pan assemblies that, when installed, provide electrical power to commercial and industrial equipment, providing protection in the event of system faults. They are ideal for electrical contractors and panel builders to perform installations as quickly, reliably and effectively as possible.
Here are the five things we like most about the Acti9 Isobar P range:
Quick and easy to install and maintain
One of the key additions to the Isobar P range is the addition of plug-on RCBO capability.
Usually, RCBO neutral and functional earth connections are wired into the neutral and earth terminals inside the distribution board. With the new Acti9 Isobar P, installers can simply plug their RCBO directly into the board. This eliminates the need to cut, straighten or dress any excess wiring.
Schneider Electric has estimated that this should reduce reducing installation time by half. It also helps reduce labour demand and ensures fewer connections and, therefore, less potential for cabling errors. If changes need to be made to the installation at later date, the devices have been designed to be easily removed and replaced should the need arise.
Neat installations
The range has also been designed to make it as easy as possible to complete neat and tidy installations. With less wiring to worry about, along with the compact nature of the devices, the Isobar P leaves plenty of space to ensure neat and tidy installations. This helps installers avoid overbending cables which can lead to heat spots. It also helps when it comes to maintaining and updating the installation, as all devices and connections are easily accessible.
Installer safety first
Installer safety was also clearly in mind when developing the new range. In association with the unique, Isobar disconnect switch function, the RCBO plug on connection system features ensures safe and reliable functional earth and neutral connection. The Isobar P also offers full IP2X internal shrouding to ensure maximum protection. The distribution boards are fully tested and are configured to be future proofed for potential changes to the Wiring Regulations e.g. the requirement for arc fault detection.
An adaptable solution
Flexibility has also clearly been considered. Every project is unique, throwing in its own set of challenges and demands for contractors to overcome. The Isobar P range is designed to adapt to the evolving needs of any installation. It is compatible with the complete Acti9 range which allows the installer to provide connected functionality. It is also suited for a variety of applications like lighting, power, IT, HVAC and critical power.
Isobar P functionality also exists in two forms, as a distribution board and also as a pan assembly, allowing integration into an associated enclosure or switchboard.
Connectivity and asset management with EcoStruxure
Last year we were introduced to Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure architecture and the many benefits that can come from the integration of connected functionality with power distribution products. Isobar P is designed to facilitate all the benefits of the EcoStruxure architecture, working with the full range of connected devices. These devices include the PowerTag sensor that fastens easily to the plug-on RCBO to enable easy asset management.
The devices, when used together, will allow end users to monitor the health and energy usage of their distribution boards, enabling preventative maintenance by detecting irregular usage patterns before they grow into serious problems. Over time, this will help your clients extend equipment lifespans, improve performance and reduces downtime, leading to lower operational costs.
For more information on the Acti9 Isobar P range, click here.