Selector Guide

Introduction Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Solid State Panel Mount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Relays • SV Series - 10 thru 75 Amp, 330 Vac & 660 Vac Output
• SVDD Series - 12 thru 40 Amp, 100 Vdc Output

DIN Rail Mount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12

Single Phase
• RV Series - 25 or 40 Amp, 660 Vac Output, Solid State Relay
• RS Series - 50, 75 or 100 Amp, 660 Vac Output, Solid State Relay
• RVMA Series - 25 or 40 Amp, 660 Vac Output, SCR Controller

Three Phase
• RVx3 - 25 Amp, 660 Vac Output, Solid State Relay
• RVM3 - 25 Amp, 660 Vac Output, SCR Controller

SV, RV & RS Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 16

• Semiconductor Fuses & Holders

• Heat Sinks

Input & Output Input & Output Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14

Modules • AC or DC Input - Positive or Negative Logic
• AC or DC Output - Positive or Negative Logic

I/O Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

• Jumper Strips
• Marker Cards

Application Information & Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-25

Notes • Heat Sinking
• Three Phase Relays
• General Guidelines

The information in this catalog has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate, however, no responsibility is assumed for possible inaccuracies or
omissions. We constantly endeavor to enhance the quality of our products; therefore, specifications are subject to change without notice.
© Copyright 2007 Eurotherm Inc. Document No. HA136716-CII Issue 2c

Continental Industries International 1

 Introduction

History
Since the early 70's, Solid State Relays have been the standard in switching technology, due to their
high switching frequency, resistance to shock and vibration and superior lifetime.
Continental Industries began actively pursuing market growth in 1984. The company’s corporate
office, research and development, and manufacturing facilities are located in multiple facilities
throughout the USA, Canada and Europe.
Continental Industries is a part of Eurotherm Inc. Over 75% of the company’s business is in
controls and automation with products ranging from advanced computer systems for industrial
plant automation, to building environmental controls and to electronic devices found in many
domestic and commercial appliances.

Benefits of Continental’s
Solid State Relays
Long Life Reliability
When properly used, a Solid State Relay (SSR) provides a high degree of reliability, long life and
reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI), together with fast response and high vibration resistance,
as compared to an electromechanical relay (EMR). An SSR offers all the inherent advantages of
solid state circuitry, including consistency of operation and a typically longer usable lifetime. This is
possible because the SSR has no moving parts to wear out or arcing contacts to deteriorate, which
are primary causes of failure of an electromechanical relay. When properly applied, an SSR will
have a normal life expectancy of many millions of operations, 10–1000 times more than most
electromechanical relays. SSRs also have environmental advantages compared to mercury contactors.

Fast Switching
Solid state relays can switch up to 120 times per second, much faster than any electromechanical
relay. When used in heating applications, fast cycling can dramatically improve the life of the heater
by reducing thermal stress.

Low Input Power Required

SSRs allow the switching of large loads via ultra-sensitive input power. A low level logic signal (TTL)
can activate a switch for as much as 100 Amps.

Quiet Operation
Completely quiet switching, beneficial in medical applications, environmental controls or other
areas where quiet operation is desirable. Zero-crossing control also means low electrical noise
when used near computers, PLC™s, SCADA systems, or other factory automation control systems.

Relay Packaging
Continental Industries is an industry leader in product innovation. We were the first company in the
U.S. to produce and market a fully integrated DIN Rail mountable solid state relay with heat sink.
We have proven that leadership again with the introduction of the SV family of SSRs that include
the Superior Surge Survival™ technology.

2 Continental Industries International

 Introduction

Applications for Relays

Solid State Relays are typically used to operate devices such as motors, heaters and lights
from low-power signals such as those generated by computers, microprocessors and other
logic systems. Here are some examples:
Heating Controls Amusement Park Rides Motor Controls
P.C. Drilling Machines X-Ray Developers Mercury Relay Replacements
Industrial Process Controls Commercial Cooking Appliances Centrifuges
Electrostatic Precipitators Electromechanical Replacements PCB Lamination Presses
Electromagnets Life Test Equipment Lubrication Systems
Induction Furnaces Welding Controls Pizza Ovens
Solenoid / Valve Drivers Artificial Vision Systems Battery Chargers
Solar Tracking Systems Blood Sample Analyzers Industrial Fans & Blowers
Chemical Processing Equipment Laundry Equipment Wind Power Systems
Studio & Theatrical Lighting Control Systems Test Systems
High Speed Line Printers Plastic Molding & Extrusion Servo Systems
(Heated) Ultrasonic Cleaners Fire and Alarm Systems Navigation Equipment
Trains & Subways (Door Controls) Traffic Controls Utility Control Systems
Maximum Security Systems (Prison Doors) Production Equipment Lighting Displays
Assembly Equipment Computer Hard Disk Drives Automatic Dispensing Machines
Copy Machines (Xerography) Vending Machines ATM Machines
Semiconductor Wafer Fab Equipment Machine Tools Egg Incubators
Plastic Thermoforming Aircraft Ground Support Equipment Industrial Furnaces

Benefits of Continental Industries SSR Products

• High performance
• Direct bonded copper technology
• 100% Tested
• Zero-crossing
• Output voltages to 660 Vac
• AC or DC control signals
• 4-20mA analog input signals
• AC or DC output relays
• Compact and innovative designs
• Available from factory stock and local distributors
• UL/CSA/CE

Continental Industries International 3

 SV Series - Panel Mount Solid State Relays

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• 10 - 75 amps, 330Vac max. • DC and AC input versions
• 50 - 75 amps, 660Vac max. • Superior surge survival
• Single phase, zero crossing • Meets EN60947-4-3
• LED input indicator • UL recognized, CSA listed,
• Clear safety cover included CE approved
• Panel mount • 100% tested

SPECIFICATIONS
C US

Dimensions inches (mm): 2.25(57.1)H x 1.75(44.5)W x 1.37(34.8)D on vertical panel

Load type: Resistive See pages 6 and 17-19 for heat sinking
considerations and thermal transfer pads.
Inputs: See page 16 for fuse selector chart.
SVDA–DC Input
DC Logic: 10-25A ON ≥ 4Vdc/5.4mA, 32Vdc/10mA max., current limited
50-75A ON ≥ 4Vdc/3.5mA, 32Vdc/8mA max., current limited
OFF ≤ 1Vdc
SVAA–AC Input
ORDERING CODES
AC Logic: ON ≥ 100V, 280Vac max.
OFF ≤ 2mA, 10kΩ impedance
Model Rating
Current ratings: 10A, 25A, 50A and 75A
Voltage ratings: 3Vxx rating option: 24V to 330V max.
6Vxx rating option: 24V to 660V max.
Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C (up to 80°C with derating)
I 2t (A2/secs): 10A-60, 25A-260, 50A-1620, 75A-7010 Model Rating

Peak blocking voltage: 800V, impulse (300Vac), 1200V, impulse (600Vac) SVDA 4-32Vdc input, 3V10 10 amps, 300 volts
AC output 3V25 25 amps, 300 volts
Offstate dVdT: 300V 600V SVAA 100-280Vac input, 3V50 50 amps, 300 volts
AC output 3V75 75 amps, 300 volts
10A-750V/μsec 50A-500V/μsec 6V50 50 amps, 600 volts
25A-750V/μsec 75A-500V/μsec 6V75 75 amps, 600 volts

50A-1000V/μsec
75A-1000V/μsec
Heat sinks and Accessories (mm)

S505-heatsk-1.5 76.2 H x 111.8 W x 66.8 D

S505-heatsk-1.0 139.7 H x 111.8 W x 66.8 D
SCHEMATICS/DIMENSIONS Heatsk-DIN-1.6 80 H x 60 W x 71.1 D
Heatsk-DIN-1.0 116.59 H x 60 W x 86.3 D
Heatsk-6pk-1.2 579 H x 60 W x 71.1 D
DC Input Cover Safety-000 Clear Cover
Thermal-pad-005 5 pack of thermal pads
Thermal-pad-025 25 pack of thermal pads

NOTE: Adequate heat sinking, including

consideration of air temperature and flow,
is essential to the proper operation of a solid
state relay. Units should not be mounted in
an enclosed area without proper air flow.
Units should also never be mounted to a
plastic base or to a painted surface. Failure
AC Input to provide adequate heat sinking with thermal
gel or pad will cause a solid state relay to fail.

See page 6 and pages 17-19 for more details.

I shunt
V limit

4 Continental Industries International

 SVDD Series - Panel Mount DC Solid State Relays

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• 12 to 40 amps, 100Vdc output • LED input indicator
• DC control input • Clear safety cover included
• Optically isolated • 100% tested

SPECIFICATIONS

Dimensions inches (mm): 2.25 (57.1) H x 1.75 (44.5) W x 1.37

(34.8) D when mounted on a vertical panel.
Input (Control): 4-32Vdc, 6-10mA max. ≥ 1Vdc off
Output (Amps): 12A, 20A, 40A
See pages 6 and 17-19 for heat sinking
Current surge (non-repetitive): 12A-30Apeak, 20A-60Apeak, 40A-120Apeak considerations and thermal transfer pads.
On-state resistance
(at 40ºC base plate temp): 12A-0.1456Ω, 20A-0.0728Ω, 40A-0.03696Ω
Thermal resistance: 12A-1.8ºC/W, 20A-1.0ºC/W, 40A-0.55ºC/W
Voltage range of output: 0-100Vdc
Leakage: 2mA ORDERING CODES
Turn on/off time: 25μsec at > 8Vdc*
Model Rating
High frequency switching test: 100% of relays are tested at 15KHz @ 50% duty
cycle @ 10V control input
*25μsec turn on time applies when switching greater than 8V.
Turn on times at less than 8v are slower.
Model Rating
SCHEMATIC/DIMENSIONS
SVDD 1V12 12 amps, 100Vdc
1V20 20 amps, 100Vdc
1V40 40 amps, 100Vdc

Heat sinks and Accessories (mm)

S505-heatsk-1.5 76.2 H x 111.8 W x 66.8 D

S505-heatsk-1.0 139.7 H x 111.8 W x 66.8 D
Heatsk-DIN-1.6 80 H x 60 W x 71.1 D
Heatsk-DIN-1.0 116.59 H x 60 W x 86.3 D
Heatsk-6pk-1.2 579 H x 60 W x 71.1 D
Cover Safety-000 Clear Cover
Thermal-pad-005 5 pack of thermal pads
Thermal-pad-025 25 pack of thermal pads

NOTE: Adequate heat sinking, including

POWER CURVES consideration of air temperature and flow,
is essential to the proper operation of a solid
SVDD/1V12 SVDD/1V40
25 35
SVDD/1V20
70 state relay. Units should not be mounted in
30 60
an enclosed area without proper air flow.
20 Units should never be mounted to a plastic
25 50
base or painted surface. Failure to provide
15 20 40
Watts

adequate heat sinking with thermal gel or

Watts

Watts

10 15 30 pad will cause unit to fail.

10 20
5 See page 6 and pages 17-19 for more details.
5 10

0 0 0
3 6 9 12 5 10 15 20 10 20 30 40
Amps Amps Amps

Continental Industries International 5

 DIN Rail Mountable Heat Sinks

FEATURES/BENEFITS As ambient temperature increases or as amperage increases, the use of a properly sized heat
sink becomes necessary. The smaller the “heat sink rating” number, the better the heat sink
• DIN rail mountable is at dissipating the heat. The new DIN heat sinks are the outstanding choice for most appli-
• Space saving design cations because: 1) they use the least amount of sub-plate mounting space, 2) they extend
• Ground screw built-in the heat sink forward for the best air flow, and 3) they have a universal mounting bracket
• Drilled and tapped to fit and can be DIN rail mounted for fast installation without the need for drilling and tapping
panel mount relays pre-aligned hole patterns, or they can be attached with standard bolts.
Use a thermal conduction grease or a thermal pad in order to achieve the proper heat
See pages 17-19 for calculating sinking capability between the SSR and the heat sinks shown below.
your heat sink requirements

Part Number: Heatsk-Din-1.0 Part Number: Heatsk-Din-1.6 Part Number: Heatsk-6pk-1.2

(for most 35-60 amp applications) (for most 10-40 amp applications) (for most 8-60 amp applications)
1.0ºC/W capability 1.6ºC/W capability 1.2ºC/W capability

6 Continental Industries International

 RV Series Single Phase DIN Rail Mount Relays

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• Superior Surge Survival™ • LED input indicator
technology • Direct copper bonded
• 25 or 40 amp ratings • Meets EN60947-4-3 and EN55011
• 575 or 660Vac max. • UL recognized, CSA listed,
• Integrated heat sink CE approved

SPECIFICATIONS
See page 18 for installation
Load type: Resistive C US
considerations and page 16
Input: for fuse selector chart.
RVDA–DC Input: ON ≥ 4Vdc/3.5mA, 32Vdc/8mA max, current limited
OFF ≤ 1Vdc
RVAA–AC Input: ON ≥ 100V, 280Vac max., 9-25mA ORDERING CODES
OFF ≤ 20Vac/2mA, 10kΩ impedance
Model Rating
Output:
Current ratings: 25 or 40 Amps
Voltage ratings: 5V-24V to 575V max. (internal MOV),
6V-24V to 660V max. Model Rating

Frequency: 47-63Hz RVDA DC input 5V25 575V 25 amp

RVAA AC input 6V25 660V 25 amp
Voltage drop: 25A-1.0Vac, 40A-1.2Vac 5V40 575V 40 amp
6V40 660V 40 amp
I2t rating: 1350 A2sec
Leakage: 10mA max. DERATING CURVES
Holding current: 100mA 25 Amp unit 40 Amp unit
Peak blocking voltage: 1400V
Offstate dVdT: 1000V/μsec
Turn on/off time: < 8.3ms @ 60Hz
Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C (up to 80°C
with derating)

SCHEMATIC/DIMENSIONS
DC Input Front View Side View
25 Amp 40 Amp 25 and 40 Amp

AC Input

I shunt
V limit

Continental Industries International 7

 RS Series Single Phase DIN Rail Mount Relays

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• Automatic shutdown on • LED indicator
overtemperature (function and alarm)
• Built-in, replaceable, • Built-in snubber
semiconductor fuse • 4000 volt isolation
• Integrated heat sink • Zero voltage turn on
• Mounts on DIN rail or panel • Direct copper bonded
• Optically isolated • UL recognized, CSA listed,
• Touch safe CE approved C US

• 100% tested
50 Amp
SPECIFICATIONS

Load type: Resistive

Input:
RSDA–DC Input: ON ≥ 4Vdc/6mA, 28Vdc/9mA max
OFF < 1Vdc
RSAA–AC Input: ON ≥ 100V, 280Vac max., 5-15mA max.
OFF < 20Vac, 2mA, 10kΩ impedance
Output:
Current ratings: 50, 75 or 100 amps
Voltage ratings: 24V to 660V max.
C US
Frequency: 47-63Hz
Voltage drop: 1.3Vac
75 Amp
I t rating:
2
50-7,200; 75-15,000; 100-20,000
Leakage: 8mA
Holding current: 50A-50mA, 75A-100mA, 100A-100mA
Peak blocking voltage: 1200V
Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C (up to 80°C with derating)

DERATING CURVE

C US

100 Amp

8 Continental Industries International

 RS Series Single Phase DIN Rail Mount Relays

SCHEMATICS ORDERING CODES

DC Input Model Rating

RSDA 4-28Vdc input, 660-50-100 660V 50 amp

AC output 660-75-100 660V 75 amp
RSAA 100-280Vac input, 660100-100 660V 100 amp
660100-B00 660V 100 amp
AC output

See page 16 for spare fuse selector chart.

AC Input
Rc

LED

DIMENSIONS
50 Amp 75 Amp 100 Amp

Notes: Terminals:
Input: • Will accept #24-10 AWG wire
1. Standard product features internal fuses. • Torque to 7-9 inch lbs.
2. The -B00 option substitutes a copper bus bar in place of the internal I 2T
Output: • Will accept #8-3 AWG wire
fuse. This permits the RSAA/RSDA to be operated on higher amperage
applications without concern about fuse derating due to heat. Order • Torque to 40 inch lbs.
the external fuse and fuseblock as a separate line item. See page 16.
Consult factory regarding the 100 amp-B00 option.

Continental Industries International 9

 RVMA Series of Milliamp Input Single Phase
DIN Rail Mount Relays

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• Superior Surge Survival™ • Zero voltage turn-on
• 25 or 40 amp ratings • Direct copper bonded
• 575 or 660Vac max. • Meets EN60947-4-3
• Integrated heat sink • UL recognized, CSA listed,
• Mounts on DIN rail or panel CE approved
• LED indicator • 100% tested

SPECIFICATIONS
25 Amp
Load type: Resistive 40 Amp
Input: 4-20mA, 6Vdc max. drop @20mA C US

Output: See page 18 for installation considerations.

See page 16 for fuse selector chart.
Current ratings: 25 or 40 amps
Voltage ratings: 5V-24V to 575V max. (internal MOV), ORDERING CODES
6V-24V to 660V max.
Model Rating
Frequency: 47-63Hz
RVMA 6V25 660V 25 amp
Voltage drop: 25A-1.0Vac, 40A-1.2Vac 6V40 660V 40 amp
5V25 575V 25 amp
I2t rating: 1350 A2sec 5V40 575V 40 amp

Leakage: 10mA max.

Holding current: 100mA DERATING CURVES
Peak blocking voltage: 1400V
25 Amp unit 40 Amp unit
Offstate dVdT: 1000V/μsec
Turn off time: <8.3msec @ 60Hz
Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C
(up to 80°C with derating)
Operation: 4mA=0%,
12mA=50% (250ms on/off),
16mA=75% (375ms on/125ms off,
20mA=100% (on continuous)

SCHEMATIC/DIMENSIONS
Front View Side View
25 Amp 40 Amp 25 and 40 Amp

Terminals:
• Will accept #24-10 AWG wire
• Torque to 7-9 inch lbs.

10 Continental Industries International

 RVx3 Series Solid State Contactors

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• Superior Surge Survival™ • Direct copper bonded
• 25 amp rating • 1400 volt peak blocking voltage
• 575 or 660Vac designs • Meets EN60947-4-3
• Integrated heat sink • UL recognized, CSA listed,
• Optically isolated CE approved
• LED input indicator • 100% tested
SPECIFICATIONS
Load type Resistive
Input:
RVD3-DC Input (L):ON > 4Vdc/10mA, 32Vdc/15mA max, current limited
OFF ≤ 1Vdc
C US
RVD3-DC Input (H): ON > 10Vdc/3.5mA, 60Vdc/6mA max, current limited
OFF ≤ 1Vdc See page 18 for installation considerations.
See page 16 for fuse selector chart.
RVA3-AC Input (H): ON ≥ 100V/9mA, 280Vac/30mA max.
OFF ≤ 2mA, 10kΩ impedance
Output: ORDERING CODES
Current ratings: 25 amps (3 pole), 30 amps (2 pole): Model Rating Input

Voltage ratings: 5V-24V to 575V max. (internal MOV)

6V-24V to 660V max.
Frequency: 47-63Hz
Voltage drop: 1Vac per leg Model Rating

I2t rating: 1350 A2sec RVD3 DC logic 5V75T 575Vac, internal MOV
RVA3 AC logic 6V75T 660Vac
Leakage: 1mA max
Input
Holding current: 100mA
RVD3
Peak blocking voltage:1400V L 4-32Vdc
H 10-60Vdc
Offstate dVdT: 100V/μsec RVA3
Turn on/off time: < 8.3ms @ 60Hz H 90-280Vac

Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C (up to 80°C with derating)

SCHEMATIC/DIMENSIONS DERATING CURVES

Front View 2 Leg and 3 Leg

Side View
Ambient temperature (ºC), measured 1 inch
(25mm) below relay when mounted to DIN rail
or a vertical, 1/8th inch thick aluminum panel
delta wye star surface. Airflow is unrestricted up and through
Terminals: the heat sink.
• Will accept #24-10 AWG wire
• Torque to 7-9 inch lbs.

Continental Industries International 11

 RVM3 Series Solid State Contactor

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• Superior Surge Survival™ • Direct copper bonded
• 25 amp rating • 1400 volt peak blocking voltage
• 575 or 660Vac ratings • Meets EN60947-4-3
• Integrated heat sink • UL recognized, CSA listed,
• Optically isolated CE approved
• LED input indicator • 100% tested

SPECIFICATIONS

Load type: Resistive

Input: 4-20mA, 10V max. drop @ 20mA
Output:
Current ratings: 25 amps (3 pole), 30 amps (2 pole)
C US
Voltage ratings: 5V option: 24V to 575V max. (internal MOV)
6V option: 24V to 660V max.
Frequency: 47-63Hz See page 18 for installation considerations.
Voltage drop: 1Vac per leg See page 16 for fuse selector chart.
I2t rating: 1350A2sec
Leakage: 10mA max.
Holding current: 100mA
Peak blocking voltage: 1400V
ORDERING CODES
Offstate dVdt: 1000V/μsec Model Rating
Dielectric strength: 4000VRMS
RVM3
Turn on/off time: < 8.3ms @ 60Hz
Operation: 4mA=0%, 12mA=50% (250ms on/off), 16mA=75% (375ms
on/125ms off, 20mA=100% (on continuous) Model Rating
RVM3 3 phase mA unit 5V75T 575Vac, internal MOV
Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C (up to 80°C with derating) 6V75T 660Vac

SCHEMATIC/DIMENSIONS DERATING CURVES

Front View 1.73
(43.9)
.91 2 Leg and 3 Leg
(23.1)

Side View
Ambient temperature (ºC), measured 1 inch (25mm)
below relay when mounted to DIN rail or a vertical,
delta wye star 1/8th inch thick aluminum panel surface. Airflow is
unrestricted up and through the heat sink.
Terminals:
• Will accept #24-10 AWG wire
• Torque to 7-9 inch lbs.

12 Continental Industries International

 Mini DIN Rail Mount Input Modules

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• High density design • TTL compatible
• Wide logic voltage range • 4000 volt isolation
• LED logic indicator • 100% tested
• Color coded cases • UL recognized, CSA listed,
• Positive or negative logic CE approved
• Optically isolated • Meets EN60950

C US

Part Case Input Logic Output Max Load Turn On Turn Off Output Voltage
Number Color Voltage Type Voltage Current Time Max Time Max Drop @ 100mA
I.O.-IAC-R0-280 Yellow 90-280 Vac Negative 4-28 Vdc 100 mA 20 ms 20 ms 0.5 Vdc
I.O.-IAC+R0-280 Yellow 90-280 Vac Positive 4-28 Vdc 100 mA 20 ms 20 ms 0.5 Vdc
I.O.-IDC-R0-028 White 4-28 Vdc Negative 4-28 Vdc 100 mA 30 μs 60 μs 0.5 Vdc
I.O.-IDC+R0-028 White 4-28 Vdc Positive 4-28 Vdc 100 mA 30 μs 60 μs 0.5 Vdc

• 4000 VRMS isolation field to logic on all model numbers

• Operating temperature 0-70°C

SCHEMATICS

Terminals:
• Will accept #24-10 AWG wire Module Field Logic Voltage
• Torque to 5-7 inch lbs. Logic Voltage? Signal (Terminal 4)
Negative Yes No
Negative No Yes
See jumper strip and marker card accessories on page 15 Positive Yes Yes
for easy, trouble free wiring and identification. Positive No No

Continental Industries International 13

 Mini DIN Rail Mount Output Modules

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• High density design • 4000 volt isolation
• Wide logic voltage range • 600 volt peak blocking voltage
• Fused output • 100% tested
• LED logic indicator • UL recognized, CSA listed,
• Color coded cases CE approved
• Optically isolated • Meets EN60950
• TTL compatible
C US

Output Leakage Current

Part Case Input Logic (Input) Output Voltage Drop
Current @ Max Field
Number Color Voltage Impedance Voltage @ Max Iout
@45° C Voltage
I.O.-OAC-R0-280 Black 4-28 Vdc 1.5K Ohms 12-280 Vac 0.10-3A * 5 mA 1.65 Vac
rms

I.O.-OAC-RA-280 Black 90-280 Vac 40K Ohms 12-280 Vac 0.10-3A * 5 mA 1.65 Vac
rms
I.O.-ODC-R0-060** Red 4-28 Vdc 1.5K Ohms 5-60 Vdc 0-3A* 1 mA 1 Vdc
I.O.-ODC+RL-060*** Red 4-28 Vdc 1.5K Ohms 5-60 Vdc 0-3A* 100 μA 1 Vdc

• 4000 VRMS isolation field to logic on all model numbers

• Operating temperature 0-70°C
• 3 amp 5x20mm Fast Fuse, replaceable

* The 3 amp output is obtained when there is <45ºC ambient air surrounding all
sides of the module. De-rate the output if the ambient temperature is
higher and/or if the modules are tightly stacked together.
** Turn On Time - 40μs, Turn Off Time - 40μs
*** Turn On Time - 50μs, Turn Off Time - 100μs

SCHEMATICS
OAC-R0
+
ODC
Application of a voltage
here will cause the load +
to turn on.
Application of a voltage
here will cause the load
to turn on.

OAC-RA
Terminals:
• Will accept #24-10 AWG wire
Application of a voltage • Torque to 5-7 inch lbs.
here will cause the load
to turn on.

See jumper strip and marker card accessories on page 15 for easy, trouble free wiring and identification.

14 Continental Industries International

 Mini DIN I.O. Module Accessories

Jumper Strips
Continental Industries’ 10 position jumper strips are for use with our Mini DIN I/O Modules (pages 13-14). They are used to inter-
connect the positive and/or negative logic terminals, eliminating the need to use small jumper wires. The strips are copper plated
and insulated, and can be cut to length as desired. Part Number I.O.-JUMPER-010

0.85 (0.033) 67.50 (2.657)

5.93 (0.233) 7.50 (0.295)

13.67 (0.538)

3.40 (0.134) 69.97 (2.755)

Marker Cards
Marker tags snap into the slots on the edge of a Mini I.O. module for easy identification. Customers benefit from easy, clear
identification. Marker tags are available as cards, each with 5 sets of 10 characters (i.e. numbers 1-10, five times). Number ranges
are: 1-10 or 11-20. Some customers install their I/O modules on every other number (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) in order to ensure air flow
around each I/O module.

Part Numbers:
I.O.-MARKER-001 (Numbers 1-10)
I.O.-MARKER-011 (Numbers 11-20)

Continental Industries International 15

 Semiconductor Fuses & Fuse Holders

FEATURES/BENEFITS
• Touch safe design - No exposed contacts
• DIN rail mount (35mm)
• Excellent for switchboard panel, control consoles
and similar applications
• Handle/fusepuller to install and remove fuses easily
• Available in single and 3 pole configurations
• UL recognized, CSA listed, CE approved

Use the solid state relay fuse code to select the correct fuse and fuse holder, or
replacement fuse. Protecting solid state relays from short circuit conditions is the
main job of an I2T semiconductor fuse, not providing overload protection.
Continental Industries’ recommended fuses have been selected to provide the best
match of short circuit protection over a wide range of operating voltages and C US

ambient temperatures. Applying overload protection is specific to every application.

Always consult applicable electrical codes for guidance in selecting an appropriate
“overload protection” device, fuse, or circuit breaker. See page 24 for further fusing
considerations.

FUSE SELECTOR CHART

Semiconductor Fuse Replacements & Accessories Used with:
Notes:
External: Fuse and Fuse Holder
FUSE-KIT-14-010 10 Amp SV Series (1) The internal fuses are used in
FUSE-KIT-14-025 25 Amp SV, RV Series the RS family of 50, 75, and
FUSE-KIT-14-330 30 Amp/3 Phase/3 Pole RS 3 Phase 100 Amp relays. Due to local
FUSE-KIT-14-040 40 Amp RV25, RV40, SV50 electrical codes or due to
FUSE-KIT-14-050 50 Amp SV50
thermal stress on the fuse,
FUSE-KIT-22-063 63 Amp RS50
FUSE-KIT-22-075 80 Amp SV75 some customers may choose
FUSE-KIT-22-100 100 Amp RS75, RS100 to use the external fuse and
fuse holder #FUSE-KIT-22-063
Fuse only (I2T fuse)
or -100.
Internal fuses (1): FUSE-SEMIBR-63A 63 Amp RS50
FUSE-SEMIBR-100 100 Amp RS75, RS100 (2) The external fuses are 14mm
External fuses (2): FUSE-EXT-14-010 10 Amp SV Series diameter x 51 mm long or
FUSE-EXT-14-025 25 Amp SV, RV Series 22mm diameter x 58mm long.
FUSE-EXT-14-030 30 Amp RS 30 Amp/3Phase
FUSE-EXT-14-040 40 Amp RV40, SV50 Contact Continental Industries for
FUSE-EXT-14-050 50 Amp SV50 the internal bus bar, -B00 option.
FUSE-EXT-22-063 63 Amp RS50
FUSE-EXT-22-075 80 Amp SV75
FUSE-EXT-22-100 100 Amp RS75, RS100

Fuse Holders Only Dimensions H x W x D in (mm)

FUSE-HLDR-14-01 10-50 Amp 3.74 x 1.02 x 3.38 (95 x 26 x 86)
FUSE-HLDR-22-01 75-100 Amp 5.51 x 1.38 x 3.54 (140 x 35 x 90)
FUSE-HLDR-14-03 30 Amp/3 Phase 3.74 x 3.11 x 3.38 (95 x 26 x 86)
Handle (Gang3) FUSE-3HANDLE-00 30 Amp/3 Phase

16 Continental Industries International

 Application Notes

Safety Cover Heat Sinking (also see page 6)

Continental Industries' safety covers meet European touch Heat is generated by all Solid State Relays in direct
safety requirements and can be used on any of the relation to the amount of current being switched.
SV, S505-, SS- series or RSDC units. The covers snap on, forming Approximately 0.8-1.4 Watts will be generated by the SSR for
a tight fit. Holes in the lid provide easy access for probe testing. every Amp switched. This heat must be dissipated as fast as
Safety covers are included with the SV-Series. generated otherwise the temperature will increase until the
relay fails. Approximately 90% of all problems with relays are
Part Number: COVR-SAFETY-000 directly related to heat.
Adequate heat sinking, including consideration of air
temperature and flow, is essential to the proper operation
of a solid state relay. Units should never be mounted in an
enclosed area without proper air flow. Units should also never
be mounted to a plastic base or to a painted surface. Failure
to provide adequate heat sinking will cause a solid state
relay to fail. We recommend mounting our units on the heat
sinks listed on page 6 of this catalog. However, when this is
not possible, and the units are to be mounted to some other
heat sinking object, material heat conductivity should be kept
in mind. In heat dissipation, our heat sinks are approximately
equivalent to a sheet of aluminum 1/8" thick by the
dimensions shown:
HEATSK-DIN-1.6 10" x 10" (254 x 254mm)
HEATSK-DIN-1.0 14" x 14" (355.6 x 355.6mm)
Thermal Transfer Pads (Given proper ventilation and ambient temperature.)
Our thermal transfer pads are die-cut to fit the bases of In comparison, twice the amount of steel and four times
Continental Industries’ panel mount relays. They are an excellent the amount of stainless steel would be needed to achieve
replacement for thermal greases, and are proven to provide the the same effect.
lowest thermal resistance values of any commercially practical
interface material, while being more convenient and less messy. Any panel mount Solid State Relay must be mounted to a
Available in sets of 5 and 25. clean, bare (non-painted) surface that is free of oxidation.
Since even the best heat sink surfaces have some
Part Numbers: THERMAL-PAD-005 (5 pcs)
imperfections, there will be many air pockets between the
THERMAL-PAD-025 (25 PCS)
base of the relay and the heat sink (or panel) surface.
• 60°C Phase Change Temperature Air is a very poor conductor of heat and will cause the relay
• Total Interface Pad Thickness = 3 mils to run hotter than it should. To fill these pockets, Thermal
• Lowest Contact Thermal Impedance Available Transfer Pads (see column 1, pg 17) should be placed on
• No "run out" in vertical mounting applications the metal base of the relay before mounting to a metal
• Heat sensitive material, store below 30°C (85°F) surface. We suggest torque of 10 inch-pounds on both of the
• Ruggedized material that is resistant to handling SSR mounting screws.
damage while in transit
Alternately, an evenly applied 0.002” thick layer of Dow
Corning 340 (or equivalent) can be used. Note that a thicker
layer of thermal compound actually decreases heat
transmission.
Since airflow will affect its performance, a heat sink should
be mounted in a manner that assures unrestricted airflow
over its surface. Recommended mounting is on a vertical
metal surface, with the fins oriented vertically so that air can
flow unimpeded along the surfaces of the heat sink.
Horizontal or inverted mounting is possible but not
recommended, and the SSR must be derated accordingly.

Continental Industries International 17

 Application Notes

Care must be taken when mounting multiple SSRs in a

confined area. SSRs should be mounted on individual Heat Sink Calculations for SV Family of
heat sinks whenever possible. Panel mount SSRs should Solid State Relays
never be operated without proper heat sinking or in free
air as they will THERMALLY SELF DESTRUCT UNDER LOAD. Continental Industries SV Power Dissipation
A simple method for monitoring temperature is to slip a SVxA/3V10 SVxA/3V25
thermocouple under a mounting screw. If the base 10 Amp Relays 25 Amp Relays
temperature does not exceed the “max heat sink
temperature” (shown in column 2, pg 18) under normal 10A/11W 25A/31W
operating conditions, the SSR is operating in an optimal 8A/9W 20A/23W
thermal environment. If this temperature is exceeded, the 6A/6W 15A/16W
relays current handling ability must either be thermally 4A/4W 10A/10W
improved by the use of a larger heat sink, or greater air flow 2A/2W 5A/5W
must be provided over the device through the use of a fan.
Max heat sink=90ºC Max heat sink=85ºC
Some cases may require the selection of a higher current
Pwr Ref: VO=0.80VO Pwr Ref: VO=0.80VO
output SSR and thermally derating the device accordingly.
Rt=0.038 Ω Rt=0.021 Ω
Remember that the heat sink removes the heat from the Solid
State Relay and transfers that heat to the air in the electrical SVxA/3V50 SVxA/3V75
enclosure. In turn, this air must circulate and transfer its heat 50 Amp Relays 75 Amp Relays
to the outside ambient. Providing vents and/or forced 50A/59W 75A/84W
ventilation is a good way to accomplish this. 40A/44W 60A/63W
30A/30W 45A/44W
80% Power Rule 20A/18W 30A/27W
10A/9W 15A/13W
All Solid State Relays are capable of running at full rated
power (with proper heat sinking). However, it is strongly Max heat sink=105ºC Max heat sink=105ºC
suggested that they be used at no more than 80% power to Pwr Ref: VO=0.80VO Pwr Ref: VO=0.85VO
provide a safety margin in case of higher than expected Rt=0.0092 Ω Rt=0.0046 Ω
voltage, temperature, or dust on the heat sink, etc. Add-
itionally, voltage can vary up to +/-10%, and a heating element All calculations are in ºC. See derating curves on next page.
up to +/-10% over its life—two main reasons for the 80% rule. Continental Industries provides three ways to calculate the heat
sink for your application.
DIN Mounted Single and Three Phase Relays
1) Heat Sink Calculation Method
The RS and RV series are provided with integral heat sinks.
The RS units should be mounted so as to provide 1” (25mm) Maximum heat sink temperature minus maximum ambient
of space between the units, for best air flow (the 80% of power temperature divided by the power dissipation (use the chart
rule described above still applies). They can be mounted above for power dissipation at desired current).
against each other if the end units in a row are derated by 10%
and the middle units are derated 10% more than the end ones.
(Max Heat Sink Temp - Max Ambient Temp) / Watts = ___
On the other hand, the RV units can be installed on a DIN-rail For Example, use an
with only 0.18 inches between relays, “Fin-to-Fin”! The RV • SVDA/3V25 running at 20 Amps in a 45ºC ambient
family provides more amps per square inch than other brands • From the chart, at 20 Amps it dissipates 23 Watts
of industrially hardened SCR controllers and will perform bet- • A 25A unit can have an 85ºC heat sink
ter in installations with higher ambient temperatures. • (85-45 ambient) = 40ºC temp rise is allowed
• 40ºC/23W = 1.74ºC/W heat sink rating or less
For proper airflow, the RS and RV units should both be mount-
(less temperature rise per watt is better)
ed in a manner leaving space above and below the heat sink
• Therefore, the recommended heat sink would be part
equal to or greater than the height of the heatsink. Since air-
number: HEATSK-DIN-1.6 (rated at 1.6ºC/W) or any
flow will affect performance, relays with integral heat sinks
equivalent heat sink that is 1.74 or LESS. Remember, the
should be mounted in a manner providing unrestricted airflow
lower the heat sink value, the better it dissipates the heat.
over their surfaces. Recommended mounting is on a vertical
The relay must be connected to the heat sink using an
surface, with the fins oriented vertically, so that air can flow
appropriate thermal conduction grease or thermal pad.
unimpeded along the surfaces of the heat sink.

18 Continental Industries International

 Application Notes

2) De-Rating Calculation Method 25 Amp Relay

Maximum heat sink temperature minus maximum ambient

temperature divided by the heat sink rating (use the previous
chart for power dissipation).

Watts of heat generated

(Max Heat Sink Temp - Max Ambient Temp) / Heat sink
rating = ___(Max allowed Watts)
For Example, use an
• SVDA/3V10 in a 60ºC ambient with a
2.0ºC/W heat sink.
• 90ºC - 60ºC = 30ºC heat sink
temperature rise is allowed.
• 30ºC divided by 2.0ºC/W =15W. RMS on-state current (amps)
• From the table, full load current of
10A only dissipates 11W.
• Thus, an SVDA/3V10 mounted on a 50 Amp Relay
2.0ºC/W heat sink can switch 10A at 60ºC.

3) Power Calculation in Place of the Charts Watts of heat generated

Heat rise calculation of an SV solid state relay based upon

amperage switched “ON” 100% of the time. Please note,
the Continental Industries “SV” SSR uses engineering
techniques that provide maximum surge survivability while
generating a low temperature rise.
2
(0.9 x IRMS x V0) + (I RMS≈ x R ) = Power t

For Example, use an

• SVDA/3V25 for a 21A application. RMS on-state current (amps)
• (0.9 x 21A x 0.80V) + (212 x 0.021Ω) = 24.4 W

75 Amp Relay
SV Family Solid State Relay Power Curves
Watts of heat generated

10 Amp Relay
Watts of heat generated

RMS on-state current (amps)

RMS on-state current (amps)

Continental Industries International 19

 Application Notes

Motor Applications (RV - 3 Phase Unit) Three Phase Wiring Suggestions

The Continental Industries 3 phase solid state relay is designed for Relay positioning in a three-phase circuit impacts the current
switching power to 3 phased asynchronous motors and to resistive draw and therefore the amount of heat generated. When
loads. For guidance in its application, refer to the following notes: positioned in location “A”, as indicated below, a relay will
draw 73.2% more current than position “B”. Using position “B”
(380 Volt, 50/60Hz Motors - Direct Start) will enable the use of a smaller relay or will provide an
Motor Start Operating increased safety margin. Additionally, by drawing less
Size Current Current current, heat generation is reduced by 40%.
(KW) (ARMS) (ARMS)
2-Pole - 3000 RPM 3 43.4 6.2
4-Pole - 1500 RPM 3 38.0 6.9
6-Pole - 1000 RPM 4 47.7 9.0
8-Pole - 750 RPM 3 36.6 8.7

(220 Volt, 50/60Hz Motors - Direct Start)

2-Pole - 3000 RPM 2.2 45.0 7.0

Overload Capacities
In the event that a load completely or partially short circuits,
the following table indicates the absolute maximum current Example Wiring (RV-3 Phase Unit)
that the 3 Phase RV-Unit relay can withstand for various time
limits:

Time Current Time Current

(Sec) (ARMS) (Sec) (ARMS)

.2 275 8.0 80
.4 228 10.0 75
.6 188 12.0 72
.8 161 14.0 71
1.0 150 16.0 70
2.0 124 18.0 69
4.0 95 20.0 67
6.0 86 40.0 58
Maximum wattage is less
with Delta configuration
Three Phase Motor Control (SV Series)
Three phase motors can be controlled as shown. Note that
only two SSRs are required (the third is optional). The inputs
are shown in parallel,
but they can also be
connected in series as
long as the minimum
control voltage is provided
to power each relay.

20 Continental Industries International

 Application Notes

Logic Signal (TTL) Operation Latching SSR

One of the primary advantages of SSRs and I/O modules is their An AC SSR can be made to self latch (at the sacrifice of input-
compatibility with low level, solid state logic. Any logic gate, output isolation), thus permitting the use of momentary
buffered or not, capable of delivering the required current action switches for on/off or stop/start operation. It may be
and voltage within its maximum power dissipation rating can necessary to insert an RC filter across the relay input to
be used to control an SSR or I/O module. prevent the relay from turning on due to switching transients
upon application of system power. Note that the SSR
Many TTL gates, for example, will safely dissipate 40mW or
employed here must be an AC input type.
more; and the total package will dissipate up to one Watt.
(This gate power must not be confused with relay input
power.) Whereas an SSR in which the input requires 6mA at
2.2k Ω, 5W
5Vdc consumes 30mW of power, the TTL gate sinking this
same 6mA may have a voltage drop of only 0.2 volt, and
power consumption of just 1.2 mW!

TTL gates can only sink relay input current, not source it. This
is because the sourcing transistor has a pull-up resistance in its 1k Ω, 5W
collector circuit. Pulling 11mA through this resistance, in this
case 130 ohms, would leave insufficient input voltage to
operate the relay. For example, an SSR requiring a nominal
5Vdc may not operate on less than 4 volts.
Installation Density
Typically, the drop across the transistor
and diode at 11mA would approximate To achieve maximum installation density and to provide
0.8 volt; and the drop across 130 ohms separate wiring channels for the high voltage/high current
is 1.4 volt. This 2.2 volt drop would leave wires vs the control signal wires, Continental Industries’ RV
only about 1.8 volts for the relay to family of 25 or 40 amp products can be installed as shown
operate, not enough for relay turn-on. below. Please ensure that you observe the wire terminal
numbers. The spacing shown is the minimum requirement
Since TTL gates can only sink current to for most industrial applications. Unrestricted airflow is
the relay, and since current sinking is done from a “zero” needed for the Continental Industries product to perform at
logic signal, the relay can only be turned on from a “zero” its rated capacity.
signal. This is contrary to normal relay operation, which
prefers that the relay be turned on as a result of a “one”
signal. To obtain relay actuation from a logical “one” signal,
it is necessary to use an inverting gate. With such a gate,
when a “one” signal is received, the sink transistor will turn
on and conduct relay input current.

Changing Pickup and Dropout Voltage

By using a zener diode in series with the input, the pick up
and drop out voltage of a Solid State Relay or an I/O Module
can be increased by the value of the zener. For example, a
typical SSR has a maximum pick up voltage of 4 Vdc and a
minimum drop out of 1 Vdc. By adding a 6 volt zener as
shown, the new pick up will be 10 volts and the new drop out
7 volts.

Continental Industries International 21

 Application Notes

Recommended Solenoid Loads = V x I x (Power Rating)

Crimped-on Wire Terminals
Recommended Solenoid at 5 sec. cycle time.
When using either Ring or Spade crimped terminals with the SSR at at
SV or SVDD relays, do not use the saddle clamps that are Rating 120Vac 240Vac
provided. It is sufficient to secure the Ring or Spade
Connectors with the enclosed screws. 10A 780W 1.9KW
25A 2.0KW 3.9KW
When using electrical wire that is larger than #10 AWG with 50A 3.8KW 7.6KW
the RVDA, RVAA, or RVMA relays, 25-40 amp models, use a 75A 5.8KW 14KW
crimped lug, such as Amp# 790368-1 or equivalent.

DIN Rail Sizes Short Circuit Protection

The relay can be short circuit protected with an appropriate
All DIN Rail mountable relays and modules will fit on any
semiconductor fuse. The load integral of the relay (l2t) determines
standard 35mm rail.
which size of fuse is to be used. The fuse load integral must be
below that of the relay for the appropriate protection. Be certain
Heater Loads to analyze the fuse current/time curve to insure that the fuse can
Solid State Relays are well suited for driving heaters, however, withstand the motor starting current (if applicable).
in some temperature control applications the load is rapidly NOTE: Overload protection should be provided by another slow-
and almost continuously switched on and off. This is ideal for acting fuse in series with the short circuit protection fuse. (An
purely resistive loads (0.9-1.0 power factor). For loads of power overload being an overcurrent condition that is not of high
factor 0.8-0.9 CII recommends increasing the controller cycle enough amplitude to be considered a short circuit).
time to 5 sec. minimum. Loads with a power factor <0.8 should
be derated for inductive load.
Transient Voltage Protection
Recommended Heater Loads:
When operating a relay in an electrically noisy environment,
SSR at at at large voltage transients may damage the relay. To protect
Rating 120Vac 240Vac 480 Vac against this occurrence, it is advisable to install appropriate
varistors across the respective supply and load terminals of the
10A 960W 1.9KW 3.8KW
relay output.
25A 2.4KW 4.8KW 9.6KW
50A 4.8KW 9.6KW 19.2KW
75A 7.2KW 14.4 KW 28.8KW
Low cold resistance elements such as Tungsten or Short Wave Model RVx3/6V75T/x shown with
customer-installed MOVs. Model
Infra Red have special design considerations due to high inrush
RVxx/5V series has internal MOVs
currents. Please consult the factory. installed.

Solenoid Valves and Contactors

If your application is located near inductive loads, or shares
All of Continental Industries’ power SSRs use high noise power sources with large inductive loads that are creating
immunity circuitry in addition to a snubber network to transients in excess of the blocking voltage of the Continental
handle the electrical noise generated by inductive loads. Industries solid state relay, then you must install a metal
oxide varistor (MOV) to protect the solid state relay. It is up
However, the cycling of a solenoid load will generate large
to the installation company to properly size the MOV to
current spikes which will decrease the power capability of the
the application! Ideally, the MOV protection is near the
SSR. The power rating of the SSR will be reduced by the
noise generating inductive load (such as a motor, drive, or
power rating percentage shown.
other large inductive coil) or you can place MOVs directly
Cycle Time Power Rating across the output terminals of the SSR. Some “typical” MOVs
include:
20 sec. 80%
5 sec. 65% 600 volt application - Harris V660 LA80B
1 sec. 40% 480 volt application - Harris V575 LA80B
300 volt application - Harris V320 LA40B

22 Continental Industries International

 Application Notes

The new SV and RV families of solid state relays include the

Superior Surge Survival™ technology that dramatically DC Output Relay - Transient Protection
reduces your need to install an external MOV except in Most loads are inductive, even ones that are not so labeled.
extremely noisy environments or inductive load applications. An inductive load will produce harmful transient voltages
when it is turned off. Power MOSFET outputs can be
susceptible to the transient voltages produced by seemingly
“non-inductive” loads and can be damaged if not properly
Single Phase Motor Control protected. A protection diode across the load is
recommended.
The following table gives guidelines for selecting relays for
single phase non-reversing motors. Driving reversing Input and output polarity must be observed. Inductive loads
motors is not recommended due to the potentially must be diode suppressed.
destructive voltage doubling and capacitive discharge
that they create.
Recommended Loads:
SSR at at at
Rating 120Vac 240Vac 480Vac
10A 1/4 Hp 1/2 Hp -
25A 1/3 Hp 1 Hp 2 Hp The diode used should be of the fast-recovery type with a
50A 3/4 Hp 2 Hp 3 Hp reverse voltage rating at least equal to the supply voltage.
75A 1-1/4Hp 3 Hp 7-1/2 Hp Examples of fast-recovery diodes that can be used for
transient suppression:

Lamp Test RELAY MOTOROLA GE

MODEL DIODES DIODES
An AC output solid state relay can be quickly and easily tested. SVDD MR851 A115A
To evaluate whether or not it is operative, connect the relay as
These diodes are suitable for most applications. For fast
follows using the appropriate voltages. The lamp bulb should
repetition rates consult factory for further information.
not turn "On" until the control voltage is applied (and "Off"
when control voltage is removed). If the lamp comes "On"
with no control voltage, the output is shorted. Typical Temperature Control Installation
Shown is an AC output solid state relay. DC units can be Electrically heated chamber application:
checked the same way with appropriate DC voltages and load.
• DC activated RVDA solid state relay
• Thermocouple input
• Alarm for operator warning

Safety

Due to their leakage currentSolid State Relays are NOT open

circuits, even when in the off-state. Safety can only be
achieved by a mechanical disconnect between the solid state
relay and the power lines.

Continental Industries International 23

 Application Notes

Typical Temperature Control Application Leakage - Effect on Input

Packaging or food processing application: Many temperature controllers and PLC's use triacs as output
devices and most manufacturers place a ".022 microfared
• SVDA solid state relay snubber" across their triacs for their own protection. This
• Analog sensor input snubber can produce enough leakage when the controller is
• Alarm circuit to stop PLC or related equipment "off" to cause the solid state relay connected to it to go "on"
or at least to not turn "off" properly.
A solution to this problem is to place a 10K ohm, 2 Watt
resistor (for 120 Volt control), across the input (control) of
the solid state relay.
The SVAA and RVAA family typically do NOT need the
additional burden resistor. This saves you installation time
and cost.

Output Leakage
Solid state relays typically have 8mA leakage current, even in
their off-state. The only safe way to prevent shock is to have
Locking Screws - RS and RV Units a mechanical disconnect between the line and the relay.
Screws are prevented from self-loosening by a special design.
The automatic progressive locking principle generates an Direct Copper Bonding
increasing thread friction as the screw is tightened. Repeated
Continental Industries employs the proven reliability of direct
tightening and loosening does not cause fatigue of the locking
copper bonding technology to all of its SCR chip assemblies.
components. Recommended torque is 7-9 in/lbs. Care should
This direct bonding provides a more reliable mechanical
be taken not to overtighten screws.
connection between the SCR and the heat sink, by reducing
the physical stress on the chips and also provides for better
Fusing Considerations heat dissipation by reducing the layers heat must travel
Circuit Breakers and slow blow fuses offer no protection to through to the ambient. This results in a more durable relay
Solid state relays. Fast, "I2T Semiconductor Fuses" are the and a longer usable relay lifetime.
only reliable way to protect SSRs.
All solid state relays have an I2T rating. This rating is the bench Using SSRs with Electromechanical Relays
mark for their ability to handle a shorted output condition. Using an SV or RV relay to activate an electromechanical or
Continental Industries advocates circuit protection through the mercury contactor is possible. Electromechanical relays
use of a properly selected I2T (semiconductor fuse). produce a significant amount of electrical noise which could
Devices such as electromechanical circuit breakers and slow cause a solid state relay to mistrigger. If these two types of
blow fuses cannot react quickly enough to protect the SSR in relays are used together, surge voltage protection may be
a shorted condition and are not recommended!! required.

For fuses, I2T is the measure of let-through energy in terms of

current versus time. For solid state relays, I2T is based direct-
ly on the output thyristor's single-cycle peak surge current
determined by:
I2pk(surge)
I2 T = x 0.0083 (sec)
2
The procedure is to select a fuse with an I2T let-through rat-
ing that is less than the I2t capability of the solid state relay
for the same duration.
An I2T fuse protects the solid state relay. You still need a
regular fuse or circuit breaker to protect the complete instal-
lation, in accordance with your local electrical code.

24 Continental Industries International

 Application Notes

Caution de-energize an SSR and let it cool down before touching

the unit. All heat sinks must be installed on a vertical metal
Continental Industries International’s Solid State Relays, surface with unrestricted airflow that flows up, through
Input/Output Modules, controls, and other Continental the fins, and out the top of the heat sink. Mounting the heat
automation products can (as is possible with any electronic sinks on a horizontal surface, or limiting airflow due
component) fail without warning. For this reason Continental to other components being installed nearby, will severely
Industries International cannot recommend, condone or decrease the ability of the heat sink to perform as specified.
warrant any application of our products that could cause
harm or injury, in any manner, to any person, equipment, or Always disconnect the electrical power before touching the
facility upon such failure of the product. SSR or the load. Otherwise, an electrical shock hazard may
exist. Failure to do this may result in electrocution or death.
For your safety and to protect the equipment from damage in
the event of failure, it might be necessary to insert some type Continental Industries International’s products are intended
of upper-limit device (e.g. thermal) in series with the relay for use where access is limited to qualified service personnel.
Continental Industries International’s products are not
output to cause discontinuance of current to the load.
intended for use in explosive atmospheres.
Additionally, it is advisable to have a mechanical disconnect in
the load circuit for service purposes. CE installation category is Class 3 or lower.
Caution: the heat sinks shown in this catalog are capable of Please contact the factory if you have any doubts or questions
being over 100ºC (212ºF) when they are operating correctly in as to whether this caution applies to your application.
an installation. This could cause burns. ALWAYS completely

Continental Industries International 25