Disconnect switches are a type of safety switch that serves a variety of purposes. Their primary function is to interrupt the power to an electrical circuit or a group of circuits. If you’re reading this article, you may already know that. What you may not know is that a number of disconnect switches won’t be available much longer. Many of Rockwell Automation® visible blade disconnect switches were discontinued on May 31, 2019, including 1494V, 1494C, and 1494F.

8 Reasons to Migrate to 1494U

The 1494U Universal Disconnect Switch is the newest rod-operated disconnect that can also be used as a cable-operated disconnect. The switches are available in fused or non-fused from 30 – 600 amps. They are UL, CSA, and CE rated for worldwide applications.

Let’s look at some of the benefits of this switch.

#1. Reduces Inventory: With just one part number you can use either a rod to operate the disconnect or a flexible cable, which helps with reduced inventory and product availability.

#2. Easy to Mount: The flexible cable allows you more options for mounting the disconnect. You can mount the switch where you want it in the panel, and then attach the cable to the handle.

#3. High Visibility: The visible blade design allows the operator to quickly look at the disconnect and see that the blades are open and therefore disconnected from power. If the blades are hidden, then the switch is energized. Auxiliary contacts are also available as options to allow status notification to the control system.

#4. Offers Protection: The switch also has an optional cover that is designed to protect the operator from the line and load sides of the switch.

#5. NFPA 79 Compliant: The design of the 1494U is compliant because the switch, operating mechanism, and the handle are all connected, regardless of the door position being open or closed.

#6. More Compact: The 1494U disconnect is smaller in size than the 1494V, 1494C, and 1494F and can reduce the required panel space by up to 50%. The switch itself is 30% smaller, but with the optional multi-tap lugs, the savings can be up to 50%.

#7. Improves SCCR Rating: Not only can this save on panel space, but it can possibly improve the panel SCCR rating. The multi-tap lugs allow the distribution of power from the load side of the switch without using a distribution block.

#8. Easier to Operate: The cable design has also been improved and is now more flexible and has a 6” bend diameter. This improvement makes the disconnect switches much easier to operate.

We Can Help You Make the Switch

Whether you need to migrate or are just getting started, we can help. Our knowledgeable Automation Specialists are here to help you assess your current equipment and provide expert recommendations. Contact us today!

Click Here to Download our Free Control Panel & Enclosure Guide!

It's Time to Migrate Your Disconnect Switches

8 Reasons to Migrate to 1494U

We Can Help You Make the Switch