ABB Inora 1 Gang 1 Way 45A Double Pole Switch with Illumination White BL179

One gang means the accessory contains one switch mechanism. One way means it controls a circuit from a single location rather than forming part of a two-way switching arrangement. DP stands for double pole, indicating that the switch disconnects both live and neutral conductors simultaneously when correctly installed.

A 45A double-pole switch is commonly considered for compatible high-load fixed appliances such as electric cookers, ovens, hobs, water heaters and similar equipment. Suitability must be confirmed from the appliance nameplate, manufacturer instructions, circuit design and actual load. It should not be selected solely because an appliance is described as high power.

The LED provides a clear visual indication associated with the switch or connected circuit. Its exact behaviour, such as indicating that the switch is on or that power is available, depends on the product terminal arrangement and how it is wired. The electrician should follow the ABB wiring diagram supplied with the unit.

The electrician should calculate the appliance design current using its rated power, supply voltage, duty cycle and manufacturer requirements. The switch rating, cable current-carrying capacity, protective device, installation method, ambient temperature and voltage-drop limits must then be coordinated. A 45A switch does not automatically make an undersized cable or incorrectly protected circuit safe.

No. The BL179 is a local switching and isolation accessory, not a substitute for an MCB, RCBO or other required protective device. The circuit must still have correctly selected overcurrent and fault protection, and RCD or RCBO protection where required by the applicable electrical regulations and project specification.

Installation should be completed by a qualified electrician. The supply must be safely isolated, locked off where applicable and proven dead before work begins. The installer should verify the mounting box and cable capacity, identify supply and load conductors, connect them only to the marked terminals, terminate the protective earth correctly, tighten terminals to ABB's specified torque and refit the front plate securely. Continuity, insulation resistance, polarity, protective-device operation and functional switching should be tested before energising.

The required wall-box type and depth should be checked against the official ABB BL179 datasheet or installation instructions before procurement. A 45A circuit may use comparatively large conductors that need adequate terminal and bending space. In construction projects, the box should be installed level, firmly supported and deep enough to prevent cable strain or overcrowding behind the switch.

Cable size cannot be determined from the 45A switch rating alone. It depends on calculated load, protective-device rating, conductor material, cable type, installation method, grouping, route length, thermal insulation and UAE ambient conditions. A qualified electrical designer or electrician must select the cable and verify that the BL179 terminals accept the chosen conductor size.

It may be suitable for UAE residential, commercial and fit-out projects when its verified technical specifications match the approved electrical design. Selection and installation should comply with the relevant emirate's authority requirements, such as DEWA or the applicable local utility, together with project specifications and adopted wiring regulations. Consultant and authority approvals should be confirmed where required.

High ambient temperatures, cable grouping, enclosed conduits and thermal insulation can reduce cable current-carrying capacity and influence circuit design. The switch should be installed in a dry, suitable location within its manufacturer-stated environmental limits. During construction, it should also be protected from dust, paint, cement slurry, moisture and impact until final testing and handover.

Do not assume that the standard BL179 faceplate is weatherproof. Outdoor, wash-down, bathroom or other damp-area installations require an enclosure and location with an appropriate verified IP rating, along with compliance with electrical-zone and RCD requirements. Check the ABB datasheet and the project's electrical specification before installation.

Double-pole isolation disconnects both live and neutral conductors, providing more complete local separation of the appliance from the supply than a single-pole switch. This can support safer servicing and maintenance, but the circuit must still be isolated at the distribution board and proven dead before electrical work begins.

The installer should inspect conductor identification, terminal seating, earth continuity, mounting security and the absence of exposed copper. Electrical testing should include continuity, insulation resistance, polarity and operation of the relevant protective devices. The switch and LED should then be function-tested under controlled conditions, with results recorded as required for project inspection and handover.

Keep the switch clean, dry and unobstructed, and use only a soft, lightly damp cloth after isolating the circuit; abrasive or solvent-based cleaners should be avoided. Arrange inspection by a qualified electrician if there is overheating, buzzing, discolouration, a loose faceplate, intermittent operation or a burning smell. Internal repairs or terminal tightening must never be attempted while the circuit is energised.