3 ms·
Certain things get a lot more complicated when you go from AC to DC. Two of the most significant issues for home use are connects that can be disconnected under
by reportingsjr 3y ago
Certain things get a lot more complicated when you go from AC to DC. Two of the most significant issues for home use are connects that can be disconnected under load (arcing is a serious issue here) and turning DC power on/off with mechanical switches (arcing is also the issue here).
Industrial DC devices get around these issues with stricter rules and bulkier/more complex devices. E.g. electric cars use contactors to connect batteries rather than a simpler relay/switch.
- nine_k 3y agoThis is indeed so. But the standard clearance for air gaps is 1 mm / kV, and arching distance is below 0.4 mm / kV. More advanced and faster mechanical switches should work fine at 400V DC. Also IGBTs may be a preferred way, especially with various smart switches. Sockets and plugs seem to be the hardest part to make cheap and reliable. But industrial solutions can likely be adapted.