DP Switch or Double Pole Switch

In order to function optimally and with complete efficiency, every home and organisation today is equipped with best-in-class electrical equipment and devices. Since every infrastructure requires high-functioning instruments for seamless operation, researchers and expert professionals try to combine the fundamental structure of electrical tools and components with advancement and innovation.

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.

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.

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:

• Open (off)
• Circuit 1 closed
• Circuit 2 closed

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

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