Allen Bradley Klixon

Allen-Bradley Klixon thermal protection devices are used to ensure the reliability and safety of industrial motors and equipment. These Klixon devices are thermal switches with contacts that are temperature-dependent. The primary function of Klixon thermal switches is to monitor the temperature of compatible Allen-Bradley motors to protect the motors from overheating. These thermal switches are engineered to detect when a motor reaches an ambient temperature threshold that exceeds its safe operating limit. When the motor reaches this critical temperature, the Klixon thermal switch interrupts the connected electrical circuit to disconnect the motor and prevent potential damage. The Klixon thermal switches protect motors from overheating, and they are important safety devices because excessive heat can reduce motor efficiency, cause operating errors, or even cause severe motor damage or complete motor failure.

The Allen-Bradley Klixon thermal switches are compatible with Allen-Bradley PowerFlex digital DC drives and PowerFlex DC field controllers, and they are located in the motor windings. In overtemperature situations, the Klixon thermal switches can either disconnect the drive and motor through external control or use a drive digital input by being configured as external fault devices. The Klixon thermal switches can also be connected to terminals 78 and 79 to indicate "Motor Over Temp" faults in the drive, but this type of connection is not recommended because it can cause noise sensitivity for the current threshold circuitry. When a Klixon thermal switch is used in a PowerFlex system, a resistor rated at 1 kilohm must be installed in a series between the thermal switch and one of the terminals. The Klixon thermal switches are designed to operate effectively in demanding conditions and are manufactured with high-quality materials that ensure consistent performance even in the presence of high temperatures. These switches support wires with gauges of 26 to 14 AWG and recommended tightening torque ratings of 0.5 Nm.