Commercial buildings rely on many automated systems, including lighting controls that manage the intensity and operation of lights in a room. A usually necessary building control component is the transformer, which increases or decreases voltages between the power supply and the automated system (such as decreasing a high-voltage power supply to run low-voltage lighting).
Transformers are essential for the efficient and safe operation of lights in large-scale setups. When they’re small enough to be mounted on a DIN rail, they also enable flexible and compact system design. Let’s explore why using a DIN rail mountable transformer makes sense in commercial lighting controls and building automation, and how to install these industrial-grade components.
Functional Devices, a leader in electrical manufacturing, offers DIN rail mountable transformers for smoothly operating your lighting controls and building automation systems. Contact our support team to discuss the best transformer for your commercial application.
What Are DIN Rail Mountable Transformers?
A DIN rail mountable transformer, or DIN rail transformer, is designed for installation on a DIN rail within an enclosure (a special cabinet that protects and houses electrical systems).
But what is a DIN rail? It’s simply a metal rail with holes spaced along it used to mount electrical equipment in an enclosure. There are different types for varying enclosure designs.
Advantages of Using DIN Rail Mountable Transformers
Using DIN rail systems in enclosures is becoming the industry standard for a good reason. Here are some advantages of utilizing a DIN rail mounted transformer coupled with other parts of the lighting control system:
- Save space and allow for tight arrangements of components.
- Save time and work since components are snapped quickly into place.
- Promote safety and easier maintenance with well-organized electronics.
- Cost-effective.
- Adhere to universal sizing and mounting protocols that manufacturers across the industry utilize.
- Compatible with other DIN mountable control and lighting equipment.
As you can see, neatly arranging all the components of your electrical system in a small enclosure makes sense, especially if you have limited space for lighting controls.
Key Considerations Before Installation
Select the right one for the job before installing a DIN rail mountable transformer. We’ve previously written about three essential questions to ask when choosing a transformer, but it’s worth repeating with a few more considerations.
How to choose a DIN rail transformer:
- Check the input and output voltage requirements and volt-ampere (VA) rating.
- Select one small enough to fit in the available enclosure space.
- Verify that it comes with the necessary mounting hardware and industrial-grade components.
- If needed, see if it has added features like circuit protection.
- Consider the surrounding environmental conditions like temperature and humidity.
- Make sure its operating temperature is within an acceptable range.
Additionally, when preparing to install a transformer on a DIN rail, follow necessary safety precautions, adhere to local electrical codes, and use appropriate tools.
Installing a DIN Rail Mountable Transformer
The manufacturer or distributor who sells the transformer can provide a spec sheet and detailed installation instructions. For now, explore this summary of how to install a DIN rail transformer.
- Gather tools and materials, turn off the power, and verify the compatibility of the DIN rail system.
- Position the transformer on the DIN rail. Secure it with mounting clips or screws or snap into place (depending on the type of mounting hardware).
- Connect the input and output terminals and test the connections before wiring the transformer (this is where your detailed installation instructions come in).
- Inspect the installation for errors or loose connections and verify performance within your lighting and control systems.
Remember, trained electricians should install transformers to ensure safety and functionality.
Source Transformational DIN Rail Mountable Transformers from Functional Devices, Inc.
Our mission at Functional Devices is to enhance lives in buildings and beyond. One thing we know for sure is that utilizing DIN rails in your electrical enclosures will make your life a lot easier! Imagine leaving most of your tools behind and enjoying the satisfying snap as you lock the transformer into place. You get that with our durable and reliable transformers, like our DIN rail mountable TIB100A model.
We test every unit we produce, ensuring you can trust a high-quality product. Get to know our transformers better, or reach out to our tech support team with your questions or to troubleshoot any issues. Our engineers would be more than happy to speak with you!
About Functional Devices, Inc.
Functional Devices, Inc., located in the United States of America, has been designing and manufacturing quality electronic devices since 1969. Our mission is to enhance lives in buildings and beyond. We do so by designing and manufacturing reliable, high-quality products for the building automation industry. Our suite of product offerings include RIB relays, current sensors, power controls, power supplies, transformers, lighting controls, and more.
We test 100% of our products, which leads to less than 1 out of every 16,000 products experiencing a failure in the field.
Simply put, we provide users of our various products confidence and peace of mind in every box.