AC Output Single-Phase Stripwire Controllers
Frequently asked questions
What is a “Stripwire” solid-state power controller and how does it differ from the other power controllers?
Stripwire power controllers are the same as other solid-state power controllers with regards to function. The primary difference is that the solid-state relays used on those controllers utilize box clamp terminals (instead of saddle-clamp terminals), which can accommodate stripped / bare wires up to #8 AWG. A wide array of stripwire solid-state power controllers are available, including; single-phase 22.5mm / 25 amp DIN mount power controllers up-to 70 amp panel mount power controllers. Three-phase stripwire power controllers are also available with ratings up-to 80 amps per phase.
Can Stripwire Power Controllers be used for both single-phase and three-phase loads?
Yes. For single-phase loads, one stripwire power controller is used for each load. For three-phase loads, one stripwire power controller is used on each leg of the three-phase AC mains. The configuration is relatively simple – three AC output stripwire controllers are each connected to one of the three legs of the three-phase load, with the input terminals of the solid-state relays wired in series or parallel so that all three outputs turn on simultaneously. A similar option is to use a power controller that has multiple solid-state relays mounted to a single heat sink, such as an HBControls G or F/F7 series power controller.
Can I use more than one stripwire power controller in my panel to control multiple loads?
Yes, this is very common since many panels control more than one load. Heat dissipation is the most important factor to consider since the controller’s solid-state power relays dissipate power during normal operation at a rate of approximately 1W per ampere of load current. This is normally not a concern if there’s a gap of approximately 25mm or more between controllers, and if there’s adequate airflow / ventilation in the panel. The required spacing may vary depending upon the actual load current and ambient temperature within the panel. Please contact our technical team at 800.879.7918 / support@hbcontrols.com if you’d like to discuss spacing requirements for your specific application.
What does “100% duty-cycle” mean and why is it important?
“Duty Cycle” simply refers to the amount of time that a solid-state relay or power controller is in the on-state and conducting full load-current. This is particularly important specification with regard to understanding the actual load current rating of a power controller since the solid-state relay generates heat during normal operation. If a power controller has a 100% duty-cycle rating, then the solid-state relay is capable of continuously carrying the rated load-current in the specified ambient temperature. All HBControls power controllers are rated with a duty-cycle of 100%. For example, an HBC-690CHDA uses a 90 amp solid-state relay, with the fully-assembled power controller rated to 40 amps in a 40°C ambient temperature at a 100% duty-cycle. Therefore, it can continuously and reliably carry 40 amps of load current.