Disconnect Question [RE-wrenches]

[Bill Brooks]

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Allan,

Are you talking about service to a well pump that local jurisdiction require
direct power for the fire department? Otherwise, the word "critical" loads
is a misnomer. We often refer to our backup subpanels as "critical load
subpanel" but the code refers to them as "optional standby" subpanels
(article 702). You want to stay away from any mention of article 700
(Emergency) or 701 (legally required) systems. I think this is the source of
your problem.

There is nothing critical about most customer's loads from a code point of
view. Requiring an additional switch beyond the standard by-pass you always
install on a backup system is definitely redundant. Visible break is almost
silly at this point--they are not worried about separation, they are worried
abount connection, so no need to see it.

Bill.


-----Original Message-----
From: Allan Sindelar [mailto:allan at positiveenergysolar.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, February 08, 2005 2:37 PM
To: New wrenches posting
Subject: Disconnect Question [RE-wrenches]

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Wrenches,
New Mexico has a requirement that if the utility locks out a grid-tied
system, the utility power must still be able to power the critical loads.
It's a weird and unique complication. With batteryless systems, this has
been of no consequence, as the also-required lockable visible-break
disconnect is OK as is. But with a critical loads served by a backup system,
a double-throw, lockable manual transfer switch is required.

Who makes the lowest cost product that meets these requirements? 1. 3R
enclosure 2. Fusibility, neutral buss, and center-off position are not
necessary 3. Double-pole OK, but 3-pole may be used if cheaper 4. 60A AC
capacity (50A would work, as it's Outback PS-1 equipment, but I think 60A is
standard for most manufacturers); no DC rating required 5. It must be
"visible-break", so breakers can't be used, even though they'd be simpler
and cheaper

Thanks for the benefit of our collective experience, as usual.

Allan at +E

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