“The transition to heavy-duty electric mobility requires charging infrastructure that delivers both high power and dependable operation,” said Helmut Pusch, CEO of Schaltbau GmbH Group. “The C330 megawatt charging contactor can safely switch the power levels required to recharge commercial vehicles within a typical driver break. With the C330, we enable customers to develop, equip and scale future-ready high-power charging systems that maximize charger availability, reduce costly downtime, and improve fleet utilization and total cost of ownership."

The Eddicy C330 is a single-pole, bi-directional DC contactor and the industry’s first rated for up to 1,500 V and continuous currents of up to 3,000 A. Featuring silver contact pills and an innovative contact system, the C330 achieves an industry-leading contact resistance of just 40 µOhm. This significantly reduces contact heating, power losses and cooling requirements. With separate contact systems for switching and current carrying, the C330 protects the main current path from the negative effects of electrical arcing, delivering outstanding safety, endurance and longevity.

The bi-directional contactor features an open-air-isolation concept with permanent magnetic arc blow-out that prevents rupture even under the most severe failure conditions. It can withstand short-circuit currents of up to 30,000 A for 5 ms without rupturing or damaging surrounding components.

The Eddicy C330 is designed for use in charging stations, energy storage systems and photovoltaic applications. CE, CCC and UL certifications are currently underway and are expected by September 2026.

Discover the Eddicy C330 contactor and meet Schaltbau’s experts at

• The Battery Show Europe (June 9–11, 2026)
  Messe Stuttgart, Hall 4, Booth E71
   
• Power2Drive Europe (June 23–25, 2026)
  ICM Munich, Hall C6, Booth C6.373

As the transition to electric mobility and climate-friendly long-haul transport accelerates, Schaltbau is expanding its portfolio for stationary and mobile charging infrastructure. The new C305 and C805 contactors support the current MCS power class at 1,500 A, while the C330 and C830 are 3,000 A bidirectional contactors designed for the future power class of MCS high-power DC charging.

“Megawatt charging allows electric trucks to charge during the length of a driver’s break, making long-haul electric freight economically competitive with diesel,” says Helmut Pusch, CEO of Schaltbau GmbH Group. “While vehicle readiness is advancing faster than infrastructure, we are now seeing the first MCS pilot projects and corridor initiatives in North America. With the industry’s first contactors rated for 3,000 A, we reaffirm our commitment to pioneering high-performance DC solutions that support the electrification of mobility and long-haul transport.”

All megawatt charging contactors feature a compact, open-air-isolation concept that prevents rupture even under the most severe failure conditions and short-circuit currents, preventing damage to surrounding components. They withstand short-circuit currents of up to 30,000A for 5ms without rupture and, thanks to their fully bidirectional capability, are well suited for vehicle-to-grid applications.

In addition, their ultra-low contact resistance delivers superior performance with minimal heat generation. As power losses increase quadratically with current, minimizing contact resistance in high-current megawatt charging applications is essential to ensure efficient energy transfer, to protect surrounding components and batteries, and to maintain competitive total cost of ownership — enabling up to 25% energy cost savings through reduced power losses. Since the switching and current-carry circuits are separated inside the C330 and C830, the contact resistance stays stable over time independently of the respective working profile.

For more information about the event, visit here.  

"With the global EV market set to grow by over 20% annually over the next decade, high-voltage DC technology is more crucial than ever in driving ultra-fast megawatt charging, improving energy efficiency in commercial vehicles and AGVs, and unlocking the full potential of electrification in heavy-duty applications," said Helmut Pusch, CEO of Schaltbau GmbH Group. "Innovations like our new C803 and C830 megawatt charging contactors are accelerating the transition to sustainable transportation. We look forward to showcasing them at this year’s iVT Expo in Cologne, where the future of e-mobility will take shape."

In addition to its high-voltage off-road contactors, Schaltbau will present its expansive Eddicy portfolio of low-voltage contactors, for intralogistics.  Highlights include the new C303 LV, specially developed for low-voltage applications as well as the expanded C110B series, a single-pole, bidirectional DC contactor designed for battery-powered applications, with a 1,200 A breaking capacity and a compact, sealed design for enhanced durability in harsh environments—now available in a 400 A version.

Schaltbau will also showcase its comprehensive range of Eddicy connectors tailored for both high- and low-voltage applications. The HV series supports up to 1,000 V DC and 470 A, featuring IP69K protection, high mating cycle durability, and one-handed operation—ideal for demanding environments. For low-voltage needs, the LV series offers safe, reliable power transfer up to 500 A, tailored for vehicles and systems in intralogistics, public transport, and light electric mobility. Both series are designed for harsh conditions, ensuring efficient and secure connectivity across a wide range of use cases, from battery systems and drivetrains to precision low-voltage interfaces.

Visitors will experience firsthand how Eddicy is driving the future of electrification across a wide range of applications. From EV charging infrastructure and commercial vehicles to intralogistics and heavy-duty equipment, Eddicy solutions are engineered to meet the highest standards of performance, safety, and efficiency.

Discover Eddicy solutions for off-road e-mobility and intralogistics at iVT Expo 2025: 

June 11-12, 2025, Köln Messe, Hall 4.1, Booth 10015
For more information about the event, please visit us here: https://schaltbau.com/en/trade-shows/ivt/

At the heart of Eddicy’s offering are the megawatt contactors, now expanded to meet the rising demand for MCS Level 2 and Level 3 charging systems. The latest innovations feature compact designs tailored to both high-power stationary and mobile applications, ensuring fast, efficient, and safe charging for electric commercial trucks, e-buses, and more.

“Megawatt charging is beginning to move from lab to highway. And we are ready: Our megawatt charging contactors can handle up to 3,000A, which is the kind of power needed to recharge a commercial truck in 15 minutes during a regular driver’s break,” said Helmut Pusch, CEO of Schaltbau GmbH Group. “Our solutions minimize contact resistance, maintain system safety, offer a competitive total cost of ownership and thus enable true long-haul trucking or heavier e-trucks for mining and off-road logistics.”

The new contactors for both stationary (C305 and C330) and mobile (C805 and C830) applications feature a compact, open-isolation design that offers robust protection under extreme conditions. Even during high short-circuit events, the contactors prevent system damage and component failure. The C330, for example, can withstand a short-time current of 15,000A for five milliseconds without contact welding — a critical safety benchmark for high-power systems. The contactors have silver alloy contact pills for industry-leading contact resistance as low as 40 µOhm. The result: greater safety, energy efficiency, and reliability, even under extreme operating conditions.

In addition to the new megawatt charging products, Eddicy presents its compact C303 and C803 contactors engineered to meet the strict space requirements of charging stations and e-mobility platforms. With low contact resistance, these contactors minimize power losses and heat generation, while their robust design extends operational lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing downtime. These features make the C303 and C803 ideal solutions for demanding e-mobility and fast charging applications, offering significant long-term cost savings up to 25%.

Discover the Eddicy megawatt charging solutions and meet our experts at The Battery Show Europe: June 3-5, 2025, Stuttgart, Hall 9, Booth C86

For more information about the event, visit here.  

At the heart of the showcase is the new megawatt charging contactor portfolio, featuring the C305/805 and C330/830 series. These compact, high-performance contactors are designed for both stationary and mobile megawatt charging applications, meeting MCS level 2 and level 3 requirements. The C330 model, capable of handling 3000A in bi-directional applications, has already been nominated for the prestigious "smarter E AWARD 2025", underscoring its innovation and impact on the fast-charging sector.

“Megawatt charging is a game-changer for commercial e-mobility. With this portfolio, we’re enabling ultra-fast charging that matches the pace of a typical driver’s break — without compromising safety or system efficiency,” said Helmut Pusch, CEO of Schaltbau GmbH Group. “With Eddicy, we’re not just innovating — we’re delivering.”

All four new models (C305, C805, C330, C830) feature an open-isolation design, withstand short-circuit currents up to 15,000A for 5ms, and use silver alloy contact pills for industry-leading low contact resistance of just 40 µOhm for the C330/C830 and 50 µOhm for the C305/C805. The result: greater safety, energy efficiency, and reliability, even under extreme operating conditions.

Also showcased at the event will be Eddicy’s smart contactor SC503, a modular DC switching solution that combines intelligent condition monitoring with high-current performance. In a live busbar demonstration at the Rittal booth, visitors can see the SC503 in a real-world setting, highlighting its plug-and-play integration with modern power distribution systems.

With these innovations, Eddicy continues to drive the evolution of energy infrastructure, delivering future-proof solutions for EV charging, battery storage, and intelligent DC power distribution. Visitors can find Eddicy in various tradeshow areas including:

• ees Europe, Stand 476, Hall B2 (Eddicy)
• EM-Power Europe, Stand 310, Hall B5 (Rittal)
• Power2Drive Forum during the session entitled, “Global E-mobility Outlook: Vision Meets Innovation” on May 7^th, 2025, 10:30am, Stand 550, Hall C6

"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.”

“Electric forklifts produce zero emissions contributing to the goal of ‘net zero emissions of greenhouse gases’ and creating a cleaner and safer work environment. This trend towards electrification in material handling is logical and anticipated to grow," said Jim Tullo, Managing Director at Schaltbau North America. "We look forward to showcasing how our Eddicy products, such as LV connectors, AFS contactors, and the new C303 bidirectional contactors, can enable and accelerate this shift."

Eddicy’s LV connectors ensure reliable power and signal transmission in demanding industrial environments. The AFS contactors are designed for low-voltage applications such as forklifts or AGVs, providing efficient and safe switching capabilities. Meanwhile, the C303 contactors set new industry standards with their bi-directional DC capability, enhancing energy efficiency and performance. By allowing up to 25% energy cost savings, they lower the overall total cost of ownership (TCO), enabling less frequent charging and longer operational hours. Additionally, the C303's compact size makes it an ideal fit for small material handling vehicles.

The global electric forklift market is expected to grow from $53 billion to $137 billion by 2031, driven by the need for operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. The long-term savings and improved employee safety make electrical equipment and infrastructure a strategic investment. The Eddicy product portfolio enhances efficiency and ensure smooth and uninterrupted operations of electric forklifts, high-rack stackers, AGVs, lifting platforms, and charging devices.

ProMat 2025 attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about the technical advantages, including compact design, robust performance, and long operational life.
• Meet Schaltbau’s technical experts and explore custom Eddicy solutions tailored to specific industrial needs.
• Experience the highly anticipated C303 bidirectional contactors firsthand.

For more information about Eddicy and its products, please visit https://www.schaltbau.com/en/solutions/e-mobility/intralogistics/

References: 
 

1. Indian Brand Equity Foundation. (2025, January). Electric vehicles: Electric vehicle industry in India and its growth. Retrieved from https://www.ibef.org/industry/electric-vehicle 
    
2. International Council on Clean Transportation. (2024, July). Electric vehicle demand incentives in India: The FAME II scheme and considerations for a potential next phase. Retrieved from https://theicct.org/publication/electric-vehicle-demand-incentives-in-india-the-fame-ii-scheme-and-considerations-for-a-potential-next-phase-june24/ 
    
3. Press Information Bureau. (2024, September 25). 10 years of Make in India. Retrieved from https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=153203&ModuleId=3 
    
4. Times of India. (2025, February 4). Budget 2025: A vision for Viksit Bharat - The 'Make in India' initiative and employment generation. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/budget-2025-a-vision-for-viksit-bharat-the-make-in-india-initiative-and-employment-generation/articleshow/117903435.cms 
    
5. Drishti IAS. (n.d.). In depth: Achievements of Make in India. Retrieved from https://www.drishtiias.com/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-achievements-of-make-in-india 
    

CP Series – High-Power Traction Contactors 
The expanded CP series offers high-power contactors designed specifically for demanding rail applications. Now featuring three newly developed variants—rated at 800A, 1000A, and 1500A—these additions fill critical gaps in current offerings, optimizing size and cost for applications requiring higher current capacity. 

"At Schaltbau, we prioritize innovation that anticipates the future needs of the modern railway industry. The CP contactor series shows our commitment to developing high-quality, future-proof solutions that drive efficiency and reliability in critical power applications”, says Steffen Munz, CEO of Schaltbau. "We are proud to showcase this versatile technology at InnoTrans 2024." 

These robust design enhancements allow the CP series to perform seamlessly under heavy load conditions, ensuring optimal performance and a longer operational life. Additionally, Schaltbau will introduce the Smart-CP contactor, a next-generation intelligent switching device. Equipped with integrated sensors, real-time monitoring, and self-diagnostic capabilities, this device brings intelligence into critical power applications, improving energy management and reducing downtime. 

CF Series – Modular Multipole Contactors
The CF series introduces a modular approach to rail contactors, with the latest 400A variant adding versatility to an already adaptable system. These contactors are available in both NO (normally open) and NC (normally closed) configurations, handling currents up to 400A and voltages up to 3kV. The CF series' ability to switch both AC (up to 400Hz) and DC makes it an ideal choice for high-demand rail applications. 

"Our High-Power Contactor Initiative is a forward-thinking approach to high-energy applications that require greater reliability and precision," adds Munz. "Schaltbau has always been at the forefront of technological advancement, and we look forward to introducing the next generation of intelligent devices to bring new levels of performance and safety to high-power systems." 

Visitors to InnoTrans 2024 will have the opportunity to experience not only the high-performance contactors but also new products in the field of snap-action switches, railway devices and cockpit solutions from the subsidiary SPII at the Schaltbau stand. The company's experts will be on site to provide insights, answer questions and provide detailed advice on how Schaltbau solutions can be tailored to the specific needs of their customers.

Technical details:

Key technical highlights of the CP series include: 

• Current range: 600A to 2000A, with the three new versions rated at 800A, 1000A, and 1500A. 
• Voltage range: Nominal voltages of 1.5kV to 3kV, suitable for both AC and DC loads. 
• Switching capability: The contactors are designed to handle DC, fully bidirectional DC, and AC loads, ensuring exceptional electrical lifetimes. 
• Mechanical life: Over 1 million switching cycles for NO and NC contacts, making them highly durable in harsh operating conditions. 
• Configuration flexibility: The CP contactors feature 3 arc chamber types (A, B, D) and come with a monostable drive system, ensuring broad applicability and easy customization for specific rail systems. 
• Operational efficiency: These contactors incorporate larger fixed contacts and split contact bridges, which improve current distribution and contact reliability, reducing wear and tear. 
• Integrated permanent magnet system that eliminates critical current issues, resulting in lower total cost of ownership (TCO), as well as easy contact inspection and reduced maintenance requirements.

Technical features of the CF series include: 

• Current ratings: Available in 200A, 300A, and now 400A models, providing a scalable solution for different power needs. 
• Switching chambers: Each variant is built with up to six poles (for 200A/300A models) or four poles (for the 400A model), with fully bi-directional switching for both AC and DC loads. 
• Breaking technology: Advanced arc-suppression features, including polyamide, steel, and ceramic extinguished element inserts, ensure reliable switching and extended contact life. 
• Mechanical life: With over 1 million cycles, the CF series delivers longevity, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. 
• Operational flexibility: The modular design supports up to four auxiliary contacts (S870 or S826), enhancing its applicability across a variety of operational conditions. 
• Critical current resilience: The CF series is engineered to handle high short-circuit withstand currents of 4kA without critical current range issues. 
• The CF series' modular and bi-directional switching capabilities make it an exceptional solution for complex rail systems, where versatility and reliability are paramount. 
   

The numbers speak for themselves – rail travel and freight account for a mere 1% of transport emissions, a staggering contrast to road traffic (74.5%), aviation (11.6%), and shipping (10.6%).¹ This environmental edge is fueling a resurgence in rail's popularity, as passengers and freight operators alike seek out more sustainable mobility options. However, there's still work to be done since challenges such as the high energy consumption and the complex power distribution within trains remain. 

Electrification lies at the heart of sustainability in rail. The industry's global energy mix is shifting, with electricity accounting for more and more of the share . Currently, the International Union of Railways (UIC) estimates that approximately 50% of current global rail energy use comes from electricity.² This transition, coupled with the integration of renewable energy sources, is a game-changer for emissions reduction. 
Despite being comparably small, electromechanical components play their role in the electrification journey Solutions that have less weight, less resistance, consume less power and have a longer lifetime contribute to more energy savings and sustainability at any electrical connection within the train. In addition, advancements in traction motors, power electronics, and control systems are enhancing the performance and efficiency of electric and hybrid trains, expanding their range and capabilities. 

The rail industry is also leveraging regenerative braking and energy storage systems to minimize energy waste and boost efficiency. In modern systems, remaining energy loss is mostly the result of friction and electrical resistance. Regenerative braking systems capture and store kinetic energy during braking, which is then converted and reused for accelerating the train or powering onboard systems. Energy storage systems utilize mostly batteries to efficiently manage and store regenerated energy, reducing overall energy consumption and enhancing efficiency. 

Electromechanical connectors and contactors also contribute to sustainable rail infrastructures, enabling better power distribution and data/signal transmission with minimal energy losses. Innovative designs and materials contribute to this efficiency, ensuring precision, safety, and reliability in even the harshest operating conditions. Schaltbau’s electromechanical components contribute here by connecting or isolating the flow of energy with minimized losses (e.g.by contact resistance) and safe operation over the full range of demand. 

Sustainable Manufacturing: Paving the Way for a Greener Future 

Sustainability in the railway industry extends beyond operations and includes the industry's manufacturing processes. Pioneering companies are leading the way, embracing carbon-neutral factories, recycled materials, and other eco-friendly practices to minimize the environmental impact of rail production. We’re proud that our design and manufacturing processes guarantee precision and efficiency, use recycled materials and reduce environmental impact during production at our NExT Factory in Velden, Germany. 

The potential benefits of embracing innovative rail technologies are evident. By diversifying energy sources and providing more efficient mobility, the rail sector can further reduce transport-related emissions and help combat the global climate crisis.³ As the world becomes increasingly conscious of its environmental impact, the rail industry is positioned to play a pivotal role in the transition towards a greener, more sustainable future. 

Through the strategic implementation of electrification, energy-efficient infrastructure, smart technology, and sustainable manufacturing, the rail industry can drive this transformative shift. These topics and more will take center-stage at this year’s upcoming InnoTrans, the leading international trade fair for transport technology, taking place in Berlin on Sep 24-27. 

Join us there to learn more about how the latest advancements in electromechanical components can power the future of sustainable rail. Our team will be on hand to showcase our innovative products and solutions. We look forward to connecting with you there! 

Learn more about InnoTrans here!
 

References: 

1. Ritchie, H. (6. Oktober 2020). CO2-Emissionen aus dem Verkehr, 1990-2018. Unsere Welt in Daten. https://ourworldindata.org/co2-emissions-from-transport
2. Internationaler Eisenbahnverband (UIC). (2022). Global Rail Sustainability Reportr 2022 (S. 23). https://uic.org/IMG/pdf/global-rail-sustainability-report-2022.pdf
3. Internationale Energieagentur (IEA). (30. Januar 2019). Railways could provide much greater benefits for energy and the environment, according to IEA report. https://www.iea.org/news/railways-could-provide-much-greater-benefits-for-energy-and-the-environment-according-to-iea-report

Highlights will include new variants of the CP and CF contactor series that expands the high-power rail contactor portfolio. The company also will show a first prototype of their smart rail contactor. Additionally, Schaltbau will debut the PAD 41, a new emergency brake handle as well as a new snap-action switch. Together with their brand SPII, Schaltbau will also present intelligent rail interfaces such as master control systems and driver desks for intuitive and safe interaction.  

Visitors to InnoTrans 2024 can experience these innovations firsthand at Schaltbau’s exhibit located in Hall 2.2b, Stand 110. Schaltbau’s team of experts will be on hand to provide in-depth demonstrations and answer any questions about the new products. 

“At Schaltbau, innovation is a crucial element of our DNA," said Steffen Munz, CEO of Schaltbau. "We are diligently working to advance the industry with intelligent contactors and continually elevating our renowned rail technology for not only the highest standards of safety, but also to push the boundaries of innovation so that we contribute to the future of rail. We look forward to sharing this work at InnoTrans2024.”

Building on nearly a century of rail expertise, Schaltbau’s high-quality rail solutions have enabled safe, intelligent, and energy-efficient mobility on rail for generations—safely switching, connecting and controlling electrical systems in rail vehicle operation across the world. 

InnoTrans is a key event for the rail industry, bringing together global leaders and showcasing the latest advancements in transport technology. Schaltbau’s participation highlights its role as a global leader of rail solutions, dedicated to creating a safer, more efficient, and more connected rail network. 

Schaltbau, a global leader in direct current (DC) technology, will showcase innovative Eddicy solutions for energy storage and battery technologies at “The Battery Show Europe,” which will take place in Stuttgart from June 18-20, 2024; and the “ees Europe,” from June 19-21, 2024 in Munich. 

Whether it’s energy storage systems, charging infrastructures, or electromobility, DC technology is more critical now than ever before. A key component in the transition to renewable energy, DC power must be leveraged for efficient and reliable use—and Schaltbau’s line of Eddicy bidirectional contactors make that a possibility. 

Highlights will include the C303 contactor, engineered for bidirectional DC applications and offering unmatched performance suitable for a range of uses in energy storage, charging stations, electric vehicles, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G). With a very low contact resistance of slightly over 100 µΩ, the C303 offers best-in-class performance with low contact warming and low power loss due to optimized contact pills. The coil drive with fast switch on and AgSnO2 contact tips result in superior performance in short time currents (5kA capacity for 20 milliseconds without contact welding) and high making capacity (currents up to 2kA without contact welding). The smallest Schaltbau contactor for 350A Thermal current, the C303 offers complete plug-and-play capability. 

The company will also showcase the new C800 bidirectional contactors for e-mobility applications. With a making capacity of up to 4,500 amperes and continuous current carrying capacity of up to 500 amperes, they are ideal for use in the Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU) of electric vehicles. They can even handle short-circuit currents of up to 6,000 amperes for 20 milliseconds without the contacts welding, maintaining full functionality to switch large currents, such as up to 1,200 amperes at 450 volts, regardless of the current direction. 

Attendees are invited to meet Schaltbau at each event to explore how these bidirectional contactors can enhance energy sustainability and resilience: 

Eddicy at The Battery Show Europe 
Date: June 18-20, 2024, Stuttgart, booth 8F35 

Eddicy at ees Europe 
Date: June 19-21, 2024, Munich, booth B2.381 
 

For more information about each event, please visit us here:  https://www.schaltbau.com/en/news/trade-shows/the-battery-show-ees-europe/ 
 

“Ultra-fast and reliable Smart Circuit Breakers are mission-critical in the rapidly evolving landscape of DC applications,“ says Steffen Munz, CEO, Schaltbau. “They simplify the integration of renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and energy consumers into industrial microgrids for smarter, safer, and more resilient grid operations. We look forward to discussing with customers and partners at Hannover Messe how our pioneering Smart Circuit Breaker can help the industry harness electrification with even greater efficiency and safety.“ 
 

The Smart Circuit Breaker product line is the newest addition to the company’s Eddicy product portfolio for its fast-growing target markets. It provides maximum circuit protection to a wide range of direct current (DC) applications, including DC microgrids, energy storage systems, test benches, electronic vehicle charging and power conversion, among others. 

This new product line consists of a Smart Circuit breaker, a Smart Hybrid Circuit Breaker, and a Smart Solid State Circuit Breaker. While the Smart Circuit Breaker works with a mechanical contactor, the Smart Hybrid Circuit Breaker integrates both mechanical and semiconductor elements for even faster protection. The Smart Solid State Circuit Breaker is a pure semiconductor switch. 

All actively measure voltage and current directly at the switching element. Based on these intrinsic measurement capabilities, they enable localized decision-making and communication of data to higher-level units. The switching device not only acts as a superior circuit protector because it significantly minimizes the occurring energy in case of faults or overloads, but it also increases the service life of the system by becoming the data source for intelligent, predictive maintenance concepts as well as the data recorder for the better root cause analysis of events. 

Schaltbau, a global leader in DC technology, will showcase two pioneering solutions at this year’s Hannover Messe that will drive electrification and lead the journey towards a carbon-neutral industry.

Schaltbau will introduce the new C303 industrial DC contactor , designed for bidirectional DC applications. Being the smallest in its product family, it delivers unmatched performance across a range of industrial DC applications such as stationary charging infrastructures, battery test benches, electric vehicles, and intralogistics. Engineered for high inrush currents, C303 contactors have a making capacity of 2,000 amps, continuously carry up to 350 amps, and withstand short-circuit currents of up to 4,000 amps for 20 milliseconds. 

Additionally, the company will debut the Smart Circuit Breaker, an intelligent contactor that cuts off short-circuit currents ten to a hundred times faster than conventional contactors, providing maximum safety for all types of energy storage systems. The Smart Circuit Breaker also stands out for its early detection of overcurrents, its measurement and assessment of fault currents, as well as data collection capabilities for energy management systems, thus offering measurable benefits over conventional AC low-voltage distribution technology. 

“Shifting to a more efficient and climate-neutral economy has never been more critical. Our DC technologies are designed to pave the way towards an electrified and sustainable society,“ states Schaltbau CEO Steffen Munz. “We are particularly excited to introduce not only our new brand Eddicy, set to electrify the energy and e-mobility markets, but also two innovative new products that will enhance the industry’s ability to harness DC power with greater efficiency and safety.“ 

Schaltbau is already leveraging its own product range at the pioneering NExT Factory in Velden, Germany, which is the world’s first fully electrified DC manufacturing facility operating on a CO2-neutral basis. Thanks to its smart energy management and storage system, the factory significantly cuts energy dependency and costs. “Connecting local renewable energy sources with consumers in production and logistics via DC microgrids plays a crucial role in boosting energy efficiency, attaining carbon neutrality, and preserving Germany’s competitive edge in the global economy,“ Munz adds. 

Schaltbau will share its expertise in DC factories and upcoming DC applications through a series of presentations at the Hannover Messe, held daily at booth 40/1 in Hall 11 as well as within the main event program at stand D35 in Hall 12, which will also be available via livestream.

Free tickets available at: https://www.schaltbau.com/en/news/trade-shows/hannover-messe/