Mechanical Interlock
Mechanical system that physically prevents simultaneous closing of two or more devices whose concurrent operation is not permitted.
A mechanical interlock links the operating mechanisms of several devices so that defined combinations of their positions are physically impossible.
It is used in ATS systems, reversing circuits, power-source arrangements and other applications where simultaneous closing would create an unsafe condition.
The mechanism may use levers, cables, rods or an integrated arrangement between adjacent devices.
Selection criteria include the number of interlocked devices, interlock mechanism, relative device arrangement, product-series compatibility and mounting position.
Mechanical interlocks for breakers, switch disconnectors, contactors and source-transfer systems.
Mechanical Interlock
General3
Commercial or technical designation of a manufacturer's product family sharing a common design and compatible characteristics.
Range of tasks and systems for which the manufacturer recommends the component.
Primary function of the device and its intended use as defined by its design and the manufacturer's documentation.
Dimensions4
External horizontal dimension of the product between its outermost lateral points.
External vertical dimension of the product from its lowest to its highest point.
External distance between the foremost and rearmost surfaces of the product.
Mass of the product itself, excluding transport packaging, additional accessories, and external equipment.
Capacity and Layout1
Number of host switching devices mechanically or electrically coordinated by the interlock accessory.
Materials and Finish3
Primary material from which the product is manufactured.
Primary visually perceived colour of the product's external surface.
Type of final surface finish of the product determining its appearance and service properties.
Mounting and Installation4
Installation arrangement permitted by the product design, such as wall-mounted, flush-mounted, floor-mounted, or another specified mounting type.
Method used to mechanically secure the product to a support, surface, or load-bearing structure.
Permissible spatial orientation of the component during installation and operation.
Position of the accessory relative to the host switching or protective device, independent of the general installation orientation.
Electrical Parameters1
Declared number of mechanical operating cycles that the product can perform without electrical switching load.
Protection and Safety2
Degree of enclosure protection against access to hazardous parts and ingress of solid objects and water, designated by the IP code.
Indicates whether the product can be locked with a padlock.
Environmental Conditions4
Minimum ambient temperature at which normal operation of the product is permitted.
Maximum ambient temperature at which normal operation of the product is permitted.
Minimum ambient temperature permitted during storage of the product while not in operation.
Maximum ambient temperature permitted during storage of the product while not in operation.
Special Features4
Mechanical transmission method used by an interlock accessory between host devices.
Indicates that the operator incorporates a mechanical interlock that prevents prohibited position transitions or combinations.
Indicates that the mechanical interlock is physically integrated or included in the complete product rather than merely supported as an optional accessory.
Indicates whether the design permits mechanical interlocking of devices or moving parts.
Standards and Compliance3
Indicates whether the CE marking is applied to the product where applicable.
Indicates whether product compliance with applicable RoHS restrictions on hazardous substances has been declared.
Indicates whether the manufacturer declares compliance of the product with applicable REACH Regulation requirements.