What type of DIN rail is compatible with most power supplies?

When selecting a DIN rail for mounting power supplies, it is crucial to choose the right type of rail that is compatible with the power supply's design, ensuring proper mounting, stability, and secure operation. There are several types of DIN rails commonly used in industrial settings, but the most widely compatible and standard type is the TS35 DIN rail. Below is a detailed explanation of the different types of DIN rails and their compatibility with most power supplies.

1. TS35 DIN Rail (35mm Wide)

The TS35 DIN rail is the most commonly used type of DIN rail in industrial environments, particularly for mounting power supplies, circuit breakers, and other electrical components. It is sometimes referred to as "top hat rail" due to its shape, which resembles the brim of a top hat.

Key Features of TS35 DIN Rail:

--- Width: The standard width of 35mm is the most common and fits most DIN rail power supplies. This width provides a balance of space for mounting various components while ensuring secure attachment.

--- Height: The height of TS35 rails can be 7.5mm or 15mm (with 7.5mm being more common in the majority of installations). The height impacts the stability and robustness of the installation, with the 15mm height offering more surface area for larger components.

--- Material: TS35 rails are typically made from steel or aluminum, sometimes with a zinc-plated finish to resist corrosion. This ensures durability and resistance to environmental conditions in industrial settings.

Compatibility:

--- Mounting Clips: Power supplies designed for DIN rail installation often come with built-in mounting clips that are made to fit the TS35 rail. These clips allow the power supply to snap or slide onto the rail for easy installation and removal.

--- Standard for Industrial Equipment: TS35 rails are the most widely adopted DIN rail standard, so most power supplies (both AC-to-DC and DC-to-DC) are designed to fit this rail.

2. Other DIN Rail Types (Less Common)

While the TS35 rail is the most widely used, there are other types of DIN rails available that may be compatible with certain power supplies, depending on the specific requirements of the installation. These include:

1.1. TS32 DIN Rail (32mm Wide)

--- Width: 32mm, slightly narrower than the TS35.

--- Height: Typically 15mm high.

--- Usage: Less common than TS35, but some specialized equipment or compact power supplies might use this rail type for more space-constrained applications.

--- Compatibility: Only specific power supplies designed for TS32 will fit on this type of rail, but it’s still used in certain industries.

1.2. TS15 DIN Rail (15mm Wide)

--- Width: 15mm, the narrowest option.

--- Height: Available in 7.5mm height, typically used for smaller or compact components.

--- Usage: Primarily used in applications where space constraints are critical, or for smaller devices like low-power control relays or terminals.

--- Compatibility: This rail is not as commonly used for power supplies due to its limited space for mounting larger units.

1.3. G-Type DIN Rail

--- Shape: G-Type DIN rails have a G-shaped profile, which is more commonly used for mounting devices like relays, or for customized mounting applications.

--- Compatibility: The G-Type rail is not typically used for standard DIN rail power supplies, as most power supplies are designed for top-hat style rails like TS35.

3. Selecting the Right DIN Rail for Power Supplies

Most industrial DIN rail power supplies are designed to be installed on TS35 rails, but it’s still important to confirm compatibility based on specific power supply models and installation requirements. Here are some considerations for selecting the appropriate rail:

3.1. Width and Height Compatibility

--- Width: The power supply should be designed to match the width of the rail. The most common width for DIN rail power supplies is 35mm.

--- Height: Choose the rail height that corresponds to the mounting clips or slots of the power supply. 7.5mm high rails are most common, but some larger or industrial-grade power supplies may use 15mm high rails for more secure mounting.

3.2. Rail Material and Strength

--- Material Strength: The rail material (usually steel or aluminum) should be strong enough to support the weight of the power supply, especially in larger systems with multiple devices.

--- Corrosion Resistance: Consider zinc-plated or galvanized rails if the installation is in a high-humidity or corrosive environment (e.g., food processing, chemical plants, outdoor installations).

3.3. Environmental Considerations

--- Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: If the power supply is intended for outdoor use, make sure the rail material and coating are suitable for UV resistance and weatherproofing (e.g., in applications exposed to rain or sunlight).

--- Vibration Resistance: In environments with high vibration (e.g., automotive or industrial machinery), choose a rail with sufficient mounting depth and ensure the power supply is securely attached to avoid damage.

3.4. Size of the Power Supply

--- Compact vs. Large Power Supplies: For smaller power supplies, a TS35 rail with a 7.5mm height is usually sufficient. For larger, high-power units, you might need a 15mm high rail or a rail with added mounting clips for additional stability.

4. Installation of Power Supplies on DIN Rail

--- Mounting Clips: Most DIN rail power supplies come with built-in mounting clips designed to fit the TS35 rail. These clips allow the power supply to be snapped onto or slid along the rail easily. Power supplies often have spring-loaded clips that engage when pressed onto the rail.

--- Locking Mechanism: Once the power supply is mounted on the rail, a locking mechanism (such as a screw or additional clip) may be used to secure the unit firmly to the rail.

--- Power Supply Orientation: When mounting the power supply, ensure proper orientation for airflow and ventilation. Some power supplies might have specific requirements for air cooling or heat dissipation, so follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

5. Safety Considerations

--- Grounding: When mounting the power supply, make sure the grounding connection is properly made, either through the DIN rail itself or via a separate grounding terminal. This is especially important in industrial settings where grounding is necessary for safety.

--- Clearances: Maintain appropriate clearances around the power supply for adequate ventilation. This helps prevent overheating, especially in high-power applications.

Conclusion

The TS35 DIN rail is the most commonly compatible rail for mounting power supplies, and it is the industry standard in many applications. The key factors to consider are the width (35mm) and height (7.5mm or 15mm) of the rail, which should match the power supply’s mounting system. Most DIN rail power supplies are designed with TS35 compatibility, but always verify the specifications for your particular power supply model. In addition, the rail material, installation environment, and space requirements should be taken into account for optimal installation and performance.