Fire protection switch | Fire brigade switch

Your questions about our photovoltaic fire protection switch - our answers

On this page you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the functions, installation, use and maintenance of our QFire photovoltaic fire protection switch. Our aim is to provide you with comprehensive information so that you can take full advantage of our product. Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us here.

>> We also offer online training for our fire department switch

The QFire is a DC load-break switch that disconnects PV strings from the inverter automatically or remotely in the event of fire or maintenance work.

It complies with the IEC 60947-3 standard and offers optional integrated overvoltage protection (SPD type 1+2 up to 1,500 V DC).

The QFire fire protection switch galvanically isolates all DC strings.
When the AC voltage returns automatically, it can switch back on automatically- depending on the configuration.

• QFire LITE: Compact standard version for smaller systems without control line, triggered via AC drop.

• QFire BIG: Modularly expandable, with control box and switch boxes, supports up to 12 MPPT / 24 strings, optionally with overvoltage protection and fuses

• IEC 60947-3 - Switch-disconnectors

• IEC 61643-31 / EN 50539-11 - DC overvoltage protection

• DIN VDE 0100-712 - PV installation standard

• IP66 / IP67 depending on the housing material (polycarbonate or sheet steel).

• IK impact resistance for mechanical loads.

• Commercial and industrial facilities

• Apartment buildings

• Public buildings

• Large systems with high security requirements

Yes, via LEDs on the control box on site, via a web app or via remote signalling module for integration in BMS/fire alarm control panel.

Yes, development and production take place in Germany.

• Maximum 12 MPPT and up to 24 strings per system.

• Expansions possible via additional switch boxes, cascadable.

• Type 1+2 SPD for lightning and surge protection up to 1,500 V DC.

• LED status display for each SPD:

  • Green = functional

  • Red = replace

• Remote signalling contact for monitoring in control room or fire alarm control panel.

The photovoltaic fire protection switch is installed immediately before or after entering the building - as close as possible to the generator.

The housing has IP class 66/67 and is therefore suitable for outdoor use (weather-protected/shaded).

Yes, retrofitting in existing PV systems is possible. The fire protection switch is simply and easily installed in the string between the PV modules and the inverter. Thanks to the customized design, it adapts to the conditions on site.

• QFire LITE: No control line required.

• QFire BIG: Control cable length up to approx. 1,000 m possible (depending on cross-section and control type).

As we build the photovoltaic fire protection switches to customer specifications, we can also offer other quantities of strings. Simply send us your requirements, a specification or the network overview plan of your system to be planned and we will dimension the QFire accordingly. We can also reduce the number of strings if, for example, you need fewer outputs than inputs!

We pay attention to brand quality and use the original MC4-Evo 2 connectors from Stäubli(see here). However, as we build the boxes to customer specifications, we can also use Sunclix or any other PV connector on request - or we can supply the fireman's switches with cable glands!

A maximum of 20 A at 1,500 VDC per string is currently possible.

The relay is a version with low coil power and a consumption of < 1 W.

QFire is a PV generator disconnection device for the automated galvanic isolation of PV strings in accordance with DIN EN 60947-3:2020. Our fire department switch is also certified to this standard.

We produce our fire department switches on our premises in Kaufbeuren. The goods are also shipped from there.

The orientation of the box is not really relevant. It should be installed in the shade and protected from the weather.

These are mechanical switches. We offer an electronically controlled switch that switches off automatically even if the AC supply is lost and also switches on again automatically! In addition, we build the fireman's switches to customer and system specifications.

We plan the fire department switches to suit your system and wire them internally. You will receive the appropriate mating connectors from us, which you connect to the control cable - done!

No problem, you can generally connect an external switch to our control boxes, whether emergency stop, emergency stop behind glass or key switch.

Then we simply supply you with additional activation boxes with the required number of strings, which you integrate into the existing system!

If another building is to be equipped with PV, we can also swap the control box for the cluster control box, which allows up to 5 different roof areas to be switched off simultaneously.

If you require additional surge protection close to the generator, we will integrate this into the fireman's switch!

We build according to your specifications! Simply let us know whether you want the fuses in the positive and/or negative pole. We know that some applications require fuses.

Write to us at info@q3-energie.de, we will answer all your questions and include them here in the FAQs!

>> Take a look at the installation instructions!