We will now share a case study from one of our client’s applications:
An industrial caster factory was operating a DC forklift motor. Its hydraulic pump circuit had the following operating parameters:
The operator was using a low-voltage electromechanical contactors with rated interrupting current of 100A, and uninterrupted current of 120A. However, when choosing a solid-state contactor, additional considerations are as follows:
Having considered the above, the solid-state contactor needs to be rated at least ≥100VDC, ≥300A with a peak current of ≥2.1kA.
The final recommended model is: MACH1 Solid-State Contactor, M1DS01-1000A2-P1, rated at 100VDC, 1kA (continuous@90°C), and 2.5kA (peak@90°C). The continuous current rating is much higher than 300A, as it’s the nature of how solid-state contactors scale with the peak current rating. This higher continuous current also implies a much lower ON-resistance and a much smaller thermal footprint.
If you would like to inquire how to choose a MACH-1 solid-state contactor for your hydraulics or other application, feel free to contact us or complete our technical survey here.
]]>This year a team of scientists conducted research in Norway's Arctic circle in a race against time to understand the impact of climate change. During their expedition on the Holtedahlfonna icefield, just 70 kilometers from Ny-Aalesund, researchers were taken aback. They unexpected discovered a massive water pool at just 25 meters below surface where they are not anticipated for at least another 100 meters. This serves as a stark testament to the effects of climate change.
The Arctic's harsh environment poses unique challenges to electrical equipment as it is not uncommon for temperatures to reach -40ºC (-40ºF) or even lower. The cyclical freezing and thawing can compromise moving parts, leading them to degrade, stick, or fail altogether. Given such extreme circumstances and the site's remote nature, the reliability of equipment becomes critical.
We, at Nominal Controls, are proud to have supplied the solid-state contactors that operated the equipment used in these expeditions.
Every device we craft is the culmination of years of extensive R&D, testing and refinements in order to ensure maximum performance and reliability. We understand the importance of the application being undertaken in Arctic environments and recognize the urgency of the mission. That's why we commit to maintaining the highest quality standards, ensuring our components can withstand the harshest Arctic conditions.
Our collaboration with scientists doesn't end with just providing the parts; we continuously engage with them, gaining feedback to further innovate our designs. Their insights from the field are invaluable, guiding our engineering teams to push the boundaries and create tools best suited for the Arctic environment.
]]>
Fast forward to today, we're thrilled to celebrate our 7th year of delivering cutting-edge solutions to our customers. This year, we're taking innovation to the next level with the release of our new DC solid-state contactor(SSC) models, and features. Our team has been hard at work integrating new technologies and developing solutions that meet the needs of our customers.
Fast forward to today, we're thrilled to celebrate our 7th year of delivering cutting-edge solutions to our customers. But that's not all - this year, we're taking innovation to the next level with the release of our new DC solid-state contactor(SSC) models, and features. Our team has been hard at work integrating new technologies and developing solutions that meet the needs of our customers. This year, we're proud to introduce:
Stay tuned and get ready for the new era of solid-state controls!
]]>
We are pleased to announce that we have established a co-op program with University of Waterloo for science and engineering students!
University of Waterloo has a long-standing international reputation for its exceptional research accomplishments and engineering programs. We are thrilled to be partnering with them to offer this opportunity.
This long-term collaboration will be aimed at accelerating our research and development efforts while providing local students with the chance to gain practical skills and experience. Most importantly, to inspire them to work with future technology such as energy, electric vehicles, scientific research, and more here in North America.
We look forward to working with talented and motivated students to help us continue to innovate and grow!]]>
DRV- Series DC Solid-state Motor Reversers:
To ensure that our products continues to offer the optimal performance and the highest industry standards for our customers, we have implemented the following enhancements as of Jan, 2023.
Mach-1® Series DC Solid-State Contactors:
DRV- Series DC Solid-state Motor Reversers:
]]>
This year's Honorable Mentions:
We wish everyone a joyous holiday season!
2022 has been a relatively challenging year as the industry worked through semiconductor shortages, supply chain adjustments, and rising costs due to inflation. We expect these challenges to be overcome throughout next year.
To all our existing customers, thank you for your trust and confidence in our products. We seek to continue delivering the best quality products with the latest technological advancements.
To our prospective customers with system developments still underway. We look forward to working with you throughout prototyping and production next year.
This year's Honorable Mentions:
Stay tuned for 2023 as we have major announcements coming!
]]>
We are pleased to announce that our Mach-1® Series of DC solid-state contactors recently received both patent and trademark certificates.
The design of the Mach-1® DC Contactor was first conceptualized in 2019. Its goal was to achieve the following:
Mach-1® trademark was registered under Innovation, Science and Economic Development of Canada. Its patent has been registered both domestically and internationally as of October 2022.
Please click here to view the listed selection of Mach-1 Series of DC solid-state contactors for uni-directional or b-directional switching up to 2.5kV, 500A and 10kHz.
]]>NEW! Minature DC-Solid State Reverser is now more rugged and reliable than ever!
DRVS-Series solid-state relays and contactors reverse the polarity of DC loads (i.e. motors, actuators, and cathodes/anodes) with an internal H-Bridge. Minature DRVS-Series model is housed in an industry-standard "hockey puck" 1.8x2.3" enclosure. Despite its small form factor, it can traverse loads up to 200VDC and 80A.
The latest miniature DRVS-Series has been redesigned from the ground up, featuring improvements in multiple aspects, including chipsets, constructions, & soft-start/stop technology.
Traversing inductive load is one of the most challenging applications for solid-state relays. Back EMF at turn-off will result in a high energy transient through the SSR, possibly causing damage if its magnitude or duration is too high. As a result, it is not uncommon for a SSR to require 5-8x current derating for switching inductive loads(i.e. a 10A motor requires a DC reversing SSR to be rated 50A). However, with soft-stop protocol, Miniature DRVS-Series reversers only need as little as 2x current de-ratings. You can learn more about soft-stop here.
Miniature DC Solid-state reversers do not currently support PWM control. Contact us for advanced PWM models. Models currently available are as follows:
]]>
Keep in mind different manufacturers may specify their device ratings differently, the following generally applies to our Mach-1™ and MAX-Q™ series solid-state contactors only. To download a PDF version of this file, click here.
DO NOT use solid state contactors (SSCs) to switch constant current without ensuring open-circuit voltage is within limits of SSC in operation.
MAXQ™/Mach1™ SSCs can switch either the high side or the low side. However, the switching of the high side is preferred as it is deemed safer.
Note some manufacturers may specify current ratings based on transistors’ performance at 25°C. Other manufactures may specify ratings without any de-rating considerations; in both cases the rated performance cannot be practically achieved. MAXQ™/Mach1™ SSC specifications are based on a more realistic approach, which is when the device is operating continuously with a baseplate temperature of 90°C or 100°C.
Tolerances need to be considered in the design of all electrical applications. Most semiconductor failures are the result of misuse, improper selection, or the lack of transient suppression. While selecting SSC ratings, you must consider parameters such as inductance, inrush current, transients, and environmental temperatures.
3.1 Rated Current Selection:
For all applications, the SSC’s rated current must be higher than the circuit’s worst-case peak current. It is important to recognize, for example, the peak current of a DC motor circuit may be the initial inrush current, or the stall current that’s likely 5x or higher. Similarly, the peak current of a capacitive circuit may be the initial short circuit current.
Helpful Tips
3.2 Rated Voltage Selection:
Consider choosing a rated voltage 2x higher than the nominal voltage for resistive loads and even higher for inductive loads. For some of our SSC models, you may connect multiple units in series to increase rated voltage. Contact us for more details.
*Regarding di/dt and Inductive Loads
MAXQ™/M1™ SSC can open a circuit within 10s of µS. As a result, a significant back EMF may be generated when opening high currents. SSC’s opening time may be customized to improve EMI behaviour during inductive switching; however, this is not always ideal. For high current, high frequency, or inductive switching, it is essential to choose ratings and make external clamping decisions based on the potential energy stored in the inductor. Naturally, BEMF voltage should not exceed the SSC’s rated voltage; however, for applications where the overall energy released by the inductor is low when compared to SSC's switching power, external inductive clamping may not be required.
Helpful Tips
For applications with high inductance or high di/dt, consider the following:
When switching inductive loads, unclamped high-energy inductive kicks may damage the SSC. Even if damages do not occur immediately, it may affect SSC's long-term reliability. For switching inductive loads, clamp the load with one of the two methods described below. MOV or RC snubbers are not recommended for high inductance load, because MOV is not intrinsically reliable, and the RC snubber not be sufficient.
4.1) Freewheel Diode/Catch Diode Method
This is the most common and effective method. The reverse-biased rectifier diode would exponentially decay the flyback energy by looping it back to the load, dissipating energy through the resistance of the wires and the load. The duration of the decay, depending on the load characteristics, may only last for 10’s of milliseconds.
Freewheel Diode Selection:
4.2) Freewheel Diode + TVS/Zener Diode Method
For high-frequency inductive applications requiring faster dissipation of the magnetic field, adding a TVS/zener diode in conjunction with a freewheel diode is recommended. This shortens the duration of the flyback kick, typically by a factor of 5 at the cost of slightly higher peak transient voltage.
Freewheel Diode Selection:
Same as “Freewheel Diode Selection” above.
TVS Diode Selection:
Flyback Protection Comparison (Load: 12V Electromagnet)
a)b) c)
a) without external clamping
b) freewheel diode only
c) freewheel diode + zener diode
Should the SSC operate more frequently than usual, or if reliability is of greater concern over cost, consider the following:
Cooling must be carefully considered for all solid state switches. A minimum thermal derating table is provided on the side label of each SSC. It should also be noted that SSC’s long-term reliability falls with an increase in operating temperature. For most of our solid state contactor models, nominal current can be shared. You may even reduce the total heat dissipation by wiring multiple units in parallel.
Cooling requirements are determined by both the “maximum allowable baseplate temperature”, as well as the “maximum allowable junction temperature”. If a maximum allowable baseplate temperature is not provided, consider using the value of 100°C for MAXQ- Series and 90°C for Mach1- Series, respectively. The following calculation can be used to estimate the minimum thermal resistance required of the heatsink.
Heatsink RSA = (TMax allowable baseplate°C - TAmbient°C) / Power Loss – Rjc case-heatsink thermal resistance
However, for MAXQ- Series solid state contactors operating at less 40% of rated current, you may use the following method of calculation.
Heatsink RSA = (TMax allowable junction°C - TAmbient°C) / Power Loss – Rjc junction-case thermal resistance – 0.1°C/W
To maximize heat dissipation through the heatsinks, always apply a thin layer of thermal paste (1W/mK or greater), and tighten all panel mount screws according to the recommended torque.
Do not touch SSC’s output terminations when power is ON or immediately after power is switched OFF. |
Conduct wiring only when power and input control signals are completely CUT OFF. |
SSC and heatsink may likely be hot and cause burns. Do not touch them until power is OFF and surfaces are cooled. |
To download a PDF version of this file, click here.
]]>Waterloo, ON – Nominal Controls Inc. announces a new line of DC output solid state relays, DRV- Series, for the polarity-reversing of DC loads such as motors, actuators, cathodes/anodes and more.
Rated up to 200VDC/200A (continuous), DRV-Series SSR may be used in place of traditional mechanical reversers and motor controllers. For higher power loads, DRV-Series assemblies can support up to 1000VDC/450A (continuous). Furthermore, with PWM rated up to 10kHz, DRV- Series solid state relays and assemblies will also support soft-start, soft-stop and power control.
DRV-Series DC reversing solid state relays and assemblies both features an H-bridge construction. The internal diode bridge provides a natural discharge path for back-EMF generated at inductive load’s turn-OFF. This directly results in a switch that does not arc, wear or make noise.
DRV-Series SSR rated up to 200VDC and 200A may be ordered directly online here. For DRV-Series assemblies that switch >200A, please contact us.
]]>Nominal Control's exhibited for the first time at Electricity Transformation Canada 2021, and here is a recap of the 3 days event!
First, a big thank you to the ETC team for having us at Canada's first-ever conference and exhibition devoted to electricity transformation, such a special and integral event! The push for a cleaner energy grid is imperative for a sustainable future in Canada. With this unifying goal and the collective effort to make this ambition a more attainable reality, exhibitors from all across Canada came to showcase their latest technologies. We met with many innovators in wind energy, solar energy, battery storage and complementary technologies and services.
Nominal Controls had the opportunity to introduce our pioneering technology, surpassing the industry's expectation of what was thought to be possible with solid-state switching technology. We pushed the envelope with our cutting-edge tech by demonstrating the advanced capabilities of our switches. Those who visited our booth met our very first robot, Nomibot, powered by a 75VDC/200A SSR, DRVA007A-200A, from our latest DC Reverser series. Nomibot's motor drive uses a single solid-state switch that controls both the speed and direction of its motors, combining the function of a DC reverser and a motor controller, all with one small but powerful switch!
We were able to investigate the possible uses with the new capabilities we are offering via DC Reverser, DRV-series, alongside solid-state DC Contactor Mach-1™ series and Max-Q™ series for switching DC up to 6kV and 3kA. The ETC tradeshow facilitated a very collaborative environment for valuable discussions exploring the adaptation of solid-state technology in wind and solar energy and energy storage. We discovered limitations with existing technologies and considered possible solutions to bridge the gap between today's capabilities and tomorrow's possibilities. It was an amazing time delving into the vast knowledge of this growing industry, learning, connecting, and collaborating with fellow Canadian innovators.
Thank you to all who visited our booth at Electricity Transformation Canada 2021. A special thanks to Siemens-Gamesa and Honeywell-Xtralis for your kind networking opportunities. We look forward to meeting you all again next time!
]]>The first-ever ETC tradeshow will take place November 17 – 19, 2021 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Hall, South Building, Hall #E. The global energy system is quickly changing with a push towards clean electricity, renewable energies, and away from oil, gas and other non-renewable sources. Success in transforming Canada’s electricity grid does not depend on one source alone, but the collaboration of forward-thinking, unconventional ideas, innovative research and realized capabilities of joint technologies.
To promote this viability of collaboration, the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA), in partnership with Hannover Fairs (Canada) Inc., has organized the biggest event within the Canadian clean energy industry. This conference and exhibition facilitate the exchange of current ideas and technologies as a bridge for future, cutting-edge possibilities within the pursuit of a clean, reliable, and sustainable future for Canada. The conference will include speakers from major stakeholders, including Microsoft, Independent Electricity System Operator Corporation, Natural Resource Canada (NRCan), and Clean Energy Canada. There will be sessions on major topics, including the road to net zero by 2050, renewable energy partnerships with Indigenous communities, the future of market-based renewables, and more.
Nominal Controls will be exhibiting their entire collection of DC switching technologies including the reveal of their most cutting-edge innovations:
Visit booth #823 to connect with the team and collaborate to a cleaner, sustainable future!
https://l.feathr.co/Electricity-Transformation-Canada-2021/Nominal-Controls-Inc
About Nominal Controls:
Nominal Controls Inc. is a Canadian-based manufacturer of measurement and power control technologies. Our mission has always been to develop unconventional, cutting-edge breakthroughs that benefit entire industries. Our products have been tried by top academic and research institutions, and have proven successful in automotive, aerospace, and automation, as well as energy applications.
Visit us at www.nominalcontrols.com to browse our products, or contact us for any questions or custom inquiries at info@nominalcontrols.com or +1 (844)741-2580.
]]>Rated up to 200VDC, 400A(continuous), 5kHz, the DRV-Series is one of the industry's most powerful devices for switching polarities of DC loads. The line’s current rating is now based on a more realistic terminal limit, at a baseplate temperature of 100°C as opposed to 25°C. These improvements reflect our constant pursuit in pushing the limits of DC switching!
To ensure correct product selection during this transition, see the reference chart below to compare the old part number of the FR-D series to the updated part numbers of the DR-V series.
Old Part No. |
New Part No. |
FR-D1080M |
DRV01-50A4 |
FR-D0725M |
DRV007A-25A4 |
FR-D10200M |
DRV01-200A4 |
FR-D20100M |
DRV02-100A4 |
Visit the website, under DC Reversing SSR, for a full detailed product description, sample applications and to browse available product capability options. Be sure to refer to the selection guidelines to verify correct product selection for your application requirements or get in touch with a team member by filling out the survey provided on the product page to discuss recommendations and custom requirements.
www.nominalcontrols.com
info@nominalcontrols.com
]]>Join us at our first tradeshow!
We will be among the exhibitors at the first ever Electricity Transformation Canada (ETC) Conference and Exhibition.
Mark your calendars for November 17 – 19, 2021 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre to see the latest technologies and innovations of Canada’s renewable energy industry.
With a global push for bigger commitments to climate action plans, along with the rising demand for energy to match technological advancements, there is a growing trend for renewable energy sources. Canada’s production and use of energy from renewable resources places us as one of the leading countries worldwide in green energy initiatives. Canada’s primary source of renewable energy is hydroelectricity, being the second largest producer of hydroelectricity in the world. The fastest growing sources of electricity are wind and solar photovoltaic energy. The projected industry outlook makes this the optimal time to strategically invest in the opportunities within Canada’s renewable energy technologies.
Spearheading this initiative, the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA), has announced a partnership with Hannover Fairs (Canada) Inc., to facilitate the first ever collaborative exhibition for wind energy, solar energy, energy storage, and other complementary technologies. The collaboration between technological capabilities across viable renewable energy sources and convergent technologies, is imperative to build a future that is reliable and sustainable.
Join us for a chance to network, connect and discover the latest technologies and innovations in our pursuit to transform Canada’s clean energy and the global energy system!
Register now!
]]>Solid state relay used (not shown in footage):
Part#: M1BA01B-200A (contact us for availability)
Rated: 120VAC, 150A, PWM up to 20 kHz
We are pleased to introduce a new specification for our Mach-1™ DC output solid-state contactors. M1DS20-60A, rated 2000VDC & 60Amps, is the latest solid-state alternatives to DC electromechanical contactors designed in accordance with IEC/EN 60947-3 and utilized for category DC-PV2 or DC-21A.
M1DS20-60A uses industry's latest silicon carbide transistor technology, enabling an ON resistance of <30mΩ; this cuts power loss by more than half of what's otherwise possible with traditional IGBT transistor technology. Most importantly, M1DS20-60A solid-state contactor does not wear, does not arc, and is designed for >3,000,000 maintenance-free, electrical cycles.
We are now seeking potential projects associated with high-voltage solar PV arrays. Currently, a limited quantity of model is available for evaluations. Please get in touch with us with the following information:
1-844-741-2580
info@nominalcontrols.com
]]>We want your solid state contactors to last for decades! This requires proper selection and use of your units.
To ensure the correct selection of any of our solid state contactors for your application needs, be sure to refer to the Important Information document provided under ‘Specifications & Downloads’ on the product page, or click here. It provides general selection guidelines, helpful tips, comprehensive instruction, and important DOs and DON’Ts.
As always, our team is here to assist with any product questions or concerns. Email us at info@nominalcontrols.com to get in touch.
]]>WATERLOO, ON / May 27, 2021 / Nominal Controls Inc. would like to cordially invite you to visit our platform under the Canadian Pavilion at the Enlit Africa- Connect Digital Event to be held on Tuesday, June 8 - Thursday, June 10, 2021."
About Enlit Africa (Formerly POWERGEN Africa)
In the increasing efforts to combat climate change, green energy initiatives have become increasingly important. Enlit Africa has partnered with ESI Africa to facilitate a three-day digital event from June 8 - 10, 2021. Enlit Africa- Connect is a digital platform hosting a showcase of industry leaders and innovators engaged with Africa's power and energy community, with over 88,000+ energy professionals in attendance. Beyond facilitating live and digital connections, Enlit Africa also provides cutting-edge content through webinars, exclusive interviews, and product launches. The event will consist of roundtables, tech showcases, and the world's leading suppliers presenting their latest solutions.
Our Attendance
Nominal Controls will be attending as part of the Canadian Pavilion showcasing the industry's latest DC solid-state switching technology for renewable energy systems, including but not limited to solar, wind, energy transfer, and battery storage. We will also be introducing a new line of bi-directional solid-state contactors capable of switching up to 1500 VDC and 300 Amps. We look forward to connecting with OEM partners and system integrators to explore different projects and utilizations.
How to Attend
Register to discover, learn and connect with us and other professional contemporaries in the industry via the link below. We look forward to e-meeting you then! https://www.enlit-africa.com/register/digital-event-registration
]]>
Waterloo, ON. May 1st, 2021 - Nominal Controls Inc. is excited to announce the release of our new Mach-1™ DC Contactors. As a Canadian manufacturer of leading pressure sensing and power control technologies, this release extends our DC solid state switching capability to the 100 to 400 ADC range.
Mach-1™ DC contactors incorporate the latest semiconductor technology in an industry-standard panel mount solid state relay package. They can handle high current, high voltage, and high frequency applications operating at up to 400A nominal (1200A inrush), 1500 VDC, and 10 kHz. “The development of this innovation is made possible through collaborations with the Accelerator Centre and Communitech” says Peter Zhang, our manager and product officer, “we look forward to helping customers build the next state-of-the-art systems.”
Mach-1™ DC solid state contactors enable new feasibility with:
Features and benefits of Mach-1TM DC solid state contactors include:
Sample applications:
For additional information about the new Mach-1TM Series of DC output solid state relays or contactors, visit our website at https://www.nominalcontrols.com or search under “Contactors (Solid State)” on Digikey.
About Nominal Controls,
Nominal Controls Inc. is a Canadian-based manufacturer of measurement and power control technologies. Our mission has always been to develop unconventional, cutting-edge breakthroughs that benefit entire industries. Our products have been tried by top academic and research institutions, and have proven successful in automotive, aerospace, automation, as well as energy applications.
]]>The full line up of Mach-1™ DC Solid State Contactors, rated up to 500Amps and 1500VDC, is coming soon!
Be sure to check out the datasheet of our planned releases here.
]]>
We know that the past year hasn't been the easiest for many of you, so we're hoping to make things a little brighter with the announcement of our extended warranty.
For all of our products with either an expired warranty, or one that is set to expire within 365 days following March 1st 2020, we are extending our warranty by another year*.
We hope that this will help you breathe easy knowing that Nominal Controls has your back.
*Some Conditions May Apply - Contact us for more details
]]><Procedure 21B> include the following 3 tests:
Rebekah Stairs - Client Liaison
Over the past few years, Nominal Controls has been dedicated to increasing its operating capabilities and expanding the company's reach to new markets. Along with this expansion came the need to add a client liaison position in order to prioritize our customers and make them feel like a valued part of our company.
Rebekah joined our team at the end of September, and has since been working to build a connection with our clients. She believes that when working with manufacturers it's important for companies to feel that someone is on their side. There needs to be a bridge where everyone's needs are understood and met, resulting in a win/win for both companies.
Moving into the future, Rebekah is excited at the growth opportunities that the company has been taking advantage of, such as, mentorship with Communitech and the Accelerator Centre here in Waterloo, ON. She also looks forward to working with students as the company begins to develop a CO-OP program with neighboring universities.
"The future for Nominal Controls looks very bright. We know that we have products that companies want and we are excited to make Nominal Controls a well known name in the industry, not just because of the innovative approach to our designs but also because of the excellent quality of our service." - Rebekah
]]>
Nominal Controls Inc. has recently relocated to Waterloo, ON. With close proximity to Toronto, Waterloo is known for being Canada's tech hub and is home to the renown University of Waterloo. The environment here is constantly surrounded by innovation and we are ready to take part in all that this location has to offer. We've been given new opportunities for collaboration with Communitech and the Accelerator Centre to help propel us forward as we manufacture the next generation of solid state contactors.
Communitech offers us coaching and advisory services to make the most of our products. They help connect us with experts who support the rapid growth and success of our business. The Accelerator Centre is helping us scale our company, allowing us to prepare for the demands of the future and grow our business in a way that meets the needs of our consumers.
We know that these collaborations are just the beginning and we are excited to see what the future holds for solid state contactors.
]]>
MAXQ™ SSR, QSDM- models, can switch currents over 1000Adc at up to 150V, making it suitable for many DC welding applications.
Rated Current
For welding, the most crucial aspect is to ensure the peak current or short circuit current that occurs at the end of the weld cycle does not exceed SSR's rated current.
There are two ways to determine the peak current. The first method is to calculate this value based on the maximum battery voltage and the total inline resistance in your circuit. The second method is to directly measure the full charge short circuit current with a current sensor. Once you have this value, you should add another 20% margin for reliability.
Rated Voltage
During operations, your welding cables could coil up, adding to the inductance with parts already in your circuit. Under this circumstance, it may generate a back EMF high enough to cause concerns. As a result, we recommend you place a freewheeling diode in the circuit in addition to select rated voltage rating 2x higher than the operating voltage.
The following information applies to MAXQ™ solid state contactors only.
MAXQ™ SSC can be used to switch ON/OFF high power DC LEDs within μs. The guideline for selecting the minimum SSC voltage and current rating is as follows:
Voltage Selection
High power LEDs relying on constant current use many different types of drivers such as large buck-boost driver or smaller IC drivers. Depending on the type of driver used, when the LED circuit opens, the switching voltage could be 7x higher than the nominal voltage.
The actual switching voltage also depends on the type of DC power supply you are using. If you are using batteries, voltage spikes may not be a problem. However, in most cases, AC/DC converters are used to power LEDs, and they have output power ripples. Every time the LED driver senses a reduced power output from the AC/DC converter, it will ramp up the voltage to compensate. The magnitude of the voltage spikes depends on the type of your AC/DC converter can be 7x higher than the nominal voltage.
To resolve this issue, clamp the voltage with a zener diode across the power supply, then choose a SSR rated at least 3x the operating voltage. If you are unable to clamp the voltage, choose a SSR with rated voltage at least 7x higher than the operating voltage.
Current Selection
LEDs are expected to generate very high inrush current, 10x or more. The magnitude of the inrush current depends on the LED's internal driver. However most of the inrush current is short lived, only on the order of 10's of μs. Thus, it is usually sufficient to choose a current rating 3x the nominal current.