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What are DP Switches or Double Pole Switches
This article will bring under purview the operating principle, features, and advantages of DP (Double Pole) switches while highlighting their importance in the electrical industry.
In layperson terms, double pole switches or DP switches are exclusively designed to control two different electrical circuits at the same time, which allows the appliances to isolate in a safe and reliable manner. Fan/light combinations and medical equipment are some of the many applications for DP electrical switches.
In layperson terms, double pole switches or DP switches are exclusively designed to control two different electrical circuits at the same time, which allows the appliances to isolate in a safe and reliable manner. Fan/light combinations and medical equipment are some of the many applications for DP electrical switches.
What are the Differences Between a Single and Double Pole (DP) Switch?
Before dwelling on the differences between a single and double pole switch, let us understand the structural features of both. A single pole switch comprises of two terminals that closes and opens the phase contact while interrupting only one pole of the connection.
On the other hand, a double pole switch is not starkly different in terms of installation or structure. A DP switch differs in the total number of terminals which interrupts both the poles, namely, neutral and phase.
Now, when it comes to differences between both the switches, the gap lies in the way both these devices are used. In most cases, a single-pole switch is used to turn the lighting on or off in electrical appliances like LED lamps, light fittings, spotlights, neon lamps, and more.
Alternatively, DP switches are leveraged for household devices like washing machines, cookers, refrigerators, ovens, and more. To put it simply, any domestic appliance that has a heavy electrical load requires a DP switch to ensure that the routine maintenance of the appliances is carried out safely.
Lastly, owing to the difference in applications, there is a significant amount of difference in the price of both these switches. The cost of a double pole switch is marginally higher when compared to a single-pole switch; however, according to the accessories required for the cover and button, the pricing range can fluctuate.
On the other hand, a double pole switch is not starkly different in terms of installation or structure. A DP switch differs in the total number of terminals which interrupts both the poles, namely, neutral and phase.
Now, when it comes to differences between both the switches, the gap lies in the way both these devices are used. In most cases, a single-pole switch is used to turn the lighting on or off in electrical appliances like LED lamps, light fittings, spotlights, neon lamps, and more.
Alternatively, DP switches are leveraged for household devices like washing machines, cookers, refrigerators, ovens, and more. To put it simply, any domestic appliance that has a heavy electrical load requires a DP switch to ensure that the routine maintenance of the appliances is carried out safely.
Lastly, owing to the difference in applications, there is a significant amount of difference in the price of both these switches. The cost of a double pole switch is marginally higher when compared to a single-pole switch; however, according to the accessories required for the cover and button, the pricing range can fluctuate.
Types of Double Pole Switches or DP Switches
Depending on the number of throws, there are different types of DP switches. Primarily, these switches can be divided into two categories: double pole double throw and double pole single throw. Further, let us delve into both of them one by one:
1. Double Pole Single Throw
This type of switch simultaneously controls two poles’ circuits and functions on the premise of two states: off/open state and on/closed state. A double pole single throw switch has a total of four terminals—two outputs and two inputs; all of them are controlled by a common switch.
2. Double Pole Double Throw
This type of DP main switch is connected with two different electrical circuits. In a double pole double throw switch, every input can be connected with any of the outputs, which is a total of six terminals. In addition, this DP switch has three states mentioned below:
1. Double Pole Single Throw
This type of switch simultaneously controls two poles’ circuits and functions on the premise of two states: off/open state and on/closed state. A double pole single throw switch has a total of four terminals—two outputs and two inputs; all of them are controlled by a common switch.
2. Double Pole Double Throw
This type of DP main switch is connected with two different electrical circuits. In a double pole double throw switch, every input can be connected with any of the outputs, which is a total of six terminals. In addition, this DP switch has three states mentioned below:
- Open (off)
- Circuit 1 closed
- Circuit 2 closed
Opale Switches by Schneider Electric
Clear, uncluttered, modular design. Patented satin finish technology. Exceptional ease & flexibility of use & installation. Designed by international designers for the Indian market and its needs, the Opale DP Switch meets the highest standards of safety and durability.
Multiple Uses of DP (Double Pole) Switches
Double pole electrical switches are deployed in almost every industrial and domestic space. Since DP switches play a huge role in preventing the outbreak of hazardous situations like explosions and fire breakouts, they are used in multiple sectors like:
- One of the most common uses of DP pole switches is in a combination of light and fan.
- Used in heavy load appliances like induction stoves, geysers, OTG, microwave, etc.
- Used in Industrial applications and equipment
- Used in medical instruments
- Used in home wiring systems
DP (Double Pole) Switches
Opale
Clipsal X
Unica Pure
ZENcelo
DP Switches by Schneider Electric: What We Offer
Schneider Electric is a one-stop destination to meet all your digital, automation, and electric needs and requirements. We cater top-notch products and solutions to multiple sectors like healthcare, transportation, commercial real estate, life sciences, and more.
Our team of skilled and competent experts have designed a diversified portfolio of visually elegant switches and sockets that are budget-friendly, reliable and highly efficient. Explore our website to know more.
Our team of skilled and competent experts have designed a diversified portfolio of visually elegant switches and sockets that are budget-friendly, reliable and highly efficient. Explore our website to know more.