Schaltbau to showcase smart contactor SC503 at Hannover Messe 2025

Schaltbau, a global leader in direct current (DC) technology, is proud to present its latest innovation, the smart contactor SC503, at Hannover Messe 2025. The SC503 is designed to enhance system safety and reliability in critical DC and AC applications. Visitors will have the exclusive opportunity to see the SC503 at Rittal’s booth E06 in hall 11, where the product will be installed on RiLineX, the new “click & work” power distribution platform from Rittal. Schaltbau’s technical experts will be available to share more about technical specifications, potential applications, and more.

"Modern industrial systems require enhanced functionality, efficiency, and adaptability—and our smart contactor provides that, marking a new era for contactor technology," said Helmut Pusch, CEO of Schaltbau GmbH Group. "With its exceptional speed and efficiency, it is set to redefine how industries approach high-speed switching, paving the way for a future driven by intelligent devices. That’s why we’re particularly excited to present this at Hannover Messe alongside our trusted partner Rittal.”

SC503 smart contactors feature active voltage and current measurement at the switching element, enabling real-time monitoring and rapid response to system conditions. With a voltage range of 600V to 800V DC and a nominal current capacity of up to 300A, the SC503 smart contactor provides an advanced solution for high-performance applications.

The product line includes a fast-switching semiconductor version for breaking currents up to 70A, alongside a robust conventional contactor variant for higher loads and galvanic isolation. Integrated communication via Modbus Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) or Modbus Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), along with direct control through an Input/Output interface, ensures seamless integration into modern or existing automation systems. By leveraging local decision-making based on real-time data, the SC503 offers superior protection and efficiency, significantly reducing downtime in the event of faults or overloads.

The SC503 provides benefits in terms of increased productivity, reduced wear and tear, and enhanced energy efficiency. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of industries, including energy, automotive, and manufacturing.

The SC503 smart contactor will be presented with RiLineX, Rittal's open platform, a new standard for power distribution systems. The “click & work” system of boards and components speeds up power distribution in control cabinet construction – with time savings of up to 30 percent in engineering and up to 75 percent in assembly. Schaltbau gives a vision of how the smart contactor will further increase the pace for customers with a special version that connects directly to the busbars.

In addition to showcasing the SC503, Schaltbau looks forward to further engaging with attendees at Hannover Messe with at the Energy 4.0 Stage on Tuesday from 10:45-11:05, where Guido Bachmann, Director Engineering R&D Electronics and Software at Schaltbau, will present valuable insights and lessons learned from the company’s success with DC grids and the world’s first DC-plant in a presentation entitled, “NExT-Factory: One Year of DC-Factory Experience.”