Contactum Launches New Bi-directional Protection Devices
New additions expand Contactum’s circuit protection portfolio
Contactum now have an expanded circuit protection range with the introduction of bi-directional Type B RCDs and 3P+N RCBOs, strengthening the offering for modern electrical installations where demand for resilient and efficient energy distribution continues to grow.
These latest additions reflect the increasing complexity of today’s electrical infrastructure, driven by the widespread adoption of renewable energy systems, electric vehicle charging, heat pumps, inverter-driven equipment, and battery energy storage technologies.
Meeting the demands of evolving electrical systems
As electrical installations continue to evolve, protection devices are required to accommodate more complex load profiles and bi-directional current flow associated with distributed energy generation and storage.
These changes are driving demand for more advanced, application-specific circuit protection solutions capable of delivering reliable performance across a wider range of operating conditions.
Contactum’s latest product additions have been developed in response to these requirements, supporting safer integration of emerging technologies into both residential and commercial installations.
Bi-directional Type B RCDs for advanced residual current protection
The new Type B RCD range provides advanced residual current protection for applications where smooth DC residual currents may be present.
A Type B RCD is a residual current device capable of detecting AC, pulsating DC, smooth DC, and multi-frequency residual currents from 50 Hz up to 1 kHz, providing protection for complex electrical loads including EV chargers, photovoltaic (PV) systems, battery energy storage systems, heat pumps, and variable speed drives. Unlike conventional RCDs, Type B devices are designed to operate reliably in installations where DC fault currents or higher frequency leakage currents may occur and could impair the performance of standard protection devices.
Typical applications include EV charging infrastructure, renewable energy systems, heat pumps, inverter-driven equipment, and battery energy storage systems. By offering enhanced detection capability across a broader range of fault current types and frequencies, Type B RCDs support the safe operation of installations incorporating modern low-carbon technologies.
Bi-directional 3P+N RCBOs for three-phase applications
The new 3P+N RCBO range provides combined overload, short-circuit, and earth leakage protection for individual three-phase outgoing circuits in a single device.
Designed for bi-directional operation, these RCBOs ensure reliable protection in installations where power flow may originate from multiple sources, including distributed generation systems.
In the event of a fault, all three phases and the neutral are disconnected simultaneously, helping to protect downstream equipment, limit disruption, and maintain system integrity.
The compact design makes them suitable for modern distribution systems where space efficiency and reliable circuit protection are key considerations.
Supporting modern energy infrastructure
The continued growth of electrification and renewable energy integration is reshaping how electrical systems are designed and protected. As a result, the need for more capable and adaptable protection devices is becoming increasingly important.
These latest additions to the Contactum range form part of the company’s ongoing commitment to developing circuit protection solutions that meet the needs of today’s installations while supporting the transition to low-carbon energy systems.
The new Type B RCD and 3P+N RCBO ranges will be available from August, further extending Contactum’s circuit protection portfolio.
