How to Select and Get Competitive Pricing on Load Break Switches

Load break switches allow the safe disconnection and switching of live power circuits up to 38kV. This guide provides tips on selecting the right load break switch along with pricing information.

Founded in 1992, GRL is one of the leading brands in China’s low-voltage electrical market. Over the years, GRL has accumulated extensive R&D and manufacturing experience in solar systems, convergence boxes, fuses, fuse switches, DC fuse switches, isolators and busbar systems. GRL has the ability to independently develop new products and provide OEM and ODM services to help clients gain a competitive advantage. Welcome to contact us.

Play Video about GRL products

Introduction to Load Break Switches

Load break switches can manually open energized circuits while carrying full load current. Key features:

  • Make and break continuous currents up to 3000A
  • Provide visible point of disconnection
  • Enable isolation of live circuits for maintenance
  • Allow switching of energized loads
  • Limit arcing when opening contacts

Load break switches are indispensable for controlling and protecting electrical systems.

Types of Load Break Switches

Common load break switch types include:

  • Fused – Integrate fuses for overload protection
  • Unfused – No fuses, provide isolation only
  • Voltage range – From 5kV up to 38kV systems
  • Poles – Single, 3-pole, and 4-pole options
  • Enclosures – Indoor NEMA, outdoor NEMA, walk-in
  • Accessories – Alarms, interlocks, racks, operating handles

Many configurations meet a wide range of electrical system needs.

Load Break Switch Selection

Key factors when selecting a load break switch:

  • Voltage and continuous current ratings
  • Short circuit withstand and interrupt ratings
  • Physical size constraints
  • Desired features like alarms or interlocks
  • Compliance with standards like ANSI or IEC
  • Type of enclosure required

Larger load break switches support bigger loads but cost more. Choose ratings carefully based on current and future system needs.

Load Break Switch Pricing

Pricing depends on:

  • Current and voltage ratings required
  • Enclosure type and accessories
  • Compliance testing and certifications
  • Quantity ordered – volume discounts may apply
  • Overall quality and manufacturer tier

Expect to pay $100 to $1000+ for typical load break switches. Get quotes from suppliers like GRL to find the best value for the requirements.

Quality and Safety Considerations

To ensure quality:

  • Select reputable, established switch manufacturers
  • Verify UL-listing and relevant certifications
  • Review withstand and interrupting test results
  • Evaluate samples to confirm construction and performance

Leading global brands like GRL provide rigorously tested load break switches built to the highest standards.

Get Expert Load Break Switch Guidance from GRL

GRL provides:

  • Technical support on specifying optimal load break switches
  • Quotes on high quality load break switches
  • Globally certified switches meeting the latest standards
  • Excellent pre-sales and post-sales support
 

Contact GRL today for a consultation on your power distribution needs.

Frequently Asked Load Break Switch Questions

Q: What are the different types of load break switches?

A: Fused, unfused, various voltage ratings, number of poles, enclosures, accessories.

Q: How do I determine the correct load break switch size?

A: Choose ratings based on system voltage and continuous current required.

Q: What is the typical price range for load break switches?

A: $100 to over $1000 depending on specifications and ratings.

Q: Where can I find load break switch manufacturers?

A: Major electrical equipment companies like GRL specialize in load break switches.

Q: What factors affect load break switch pricing?

A: Voltage, current, poles required, enclosure type, accessories, certifications.

Q: How much do high voltage load break switches cost?

A: 15kV to 35kV switches typically range from $2000 to $10,000.

Q: Can I get an outdoor NEMA rated load break switch?

A: Yes, NEMA 3R or 4X enclosures enable outdoor installation.

Q: What electrical ratings should I look for when selecting a load break switch?

A: Voltage, continuous current, interrupting rating, frequency, etc.

Q: Do load break switch suppliers provide technical support?

A: Yes, companies like GRL assist with proper switch selection and application.

Q: How do I wire and install a load break switch?

A: Follow manufacturer guidelines for mounting, terminations, clearances, and torque values.

Q: What maintenance do load break switches require?

A: Annual inspections, contact lubrication, torque checks, part replacement when worn.

Q: What safety certifications should load break switches have?

A: Look for UL listing, IEC certification, and CE marking at minimum.

Q: How can I obtain the best pricing on load break switches?

A: Request quotes to compare suppliers. Buy in volume. Consider total cost of ownership.

Q: What accessories typically come with new load break switches?

A: Common accessories included are fuse holders, covers, operating handles, bases.

Q: How can I get free samples of load break switches?

A: Contact reputable manufacturers like GRL to obtain free product samples for evaluation.

Q: What is the typical delivery time for load break switches?

A: Usually 1-4 weeks for in-stock models. 8-10 weeks for specialized units.

Q: How do I safely operate a load break switch?

A: De-energize first if possible. Then operate the handle smoothly through the arc zone.

Q: How do load break switches compare to isolator switches?

A: Load breaks can open/close load current. Isolators switch only de-energized loads.

Q: Can I get a load break switch customized to my specifications?

A: Yes, GRL can provide custom load break switch designs tailored to your needs.

Q: How long is the expected lifetime of a load break switch?

A: Approximately 10,000 mechanical operations. Proper maintenance extends lifespan.

GRL‘s Honor Products

60mm busbar system

Busbar System

60mm/100mm/185mm/terminal distribution Busbar System

GRL Fuse type disconnect switch

Disconnect switch

Fuse type disconnect switch

GRL-Knife switch

Knife switch

Different kinds of Knife switch

GRL Fuses and Fuseholders

Fuse & Fuse holders

Fuse & Fuse holders

You'll receive a response ASAP!