Appleton AE Series Explosionproof Disconnect Switch, Aluminum

Appleton AE Series Explosionproof Disconnect Switch, Aluminum

The Appleton AE Series delivers explosionproof, dust-ignitionproof fused and non-fused disconnect switches built for areas where hazardous materials are handled or stored. Housed in copper-free (4/10 of 1% max.) aluminum bodies and covers with stainless steel disconnects, operator shafts, cover bolts, and hinges, these units provide overload and short-circuit protection along with control of lighting and power circuits. A gray epoxy powder coat finish inside and out delivers a NEMA 4, 4X rating, and the switches are rated for Class I, Division 1 and 2, Groups B, C, D; Class II, Division 1 and 2, Groups E, F, G; and Class III hazardous locations.

Key Features

• Durable Construction: Copper-free aluminum bodies and covers paired with stainless steel disconnects, operator shafts, cover bolts, and hinges for long-term corrosion resistance.
• Explosionproof Design: Precision-machined flame path between box and cover with a neoprene O-ring gasket ensures watertight integrity in hazardous environments.
• Lockable Operation: External operating handle with stops for limiting travel; disconnect operators can be locked in the ON or OFF position with up to 3 padlocks.
• Removable Mounting Pan: Disconnects are mounted on a galvanized steel removable pan for simplified installation and service.
• Secure Hardware: Stainless steel, captive Quad-Lead® cover bolts disengage in 1-1/2 turns; bolt-on stainless steel slotted mounting feet included.
• Wiring & Drainage: Standard outlets top and bottom for line and load wiring, plus plugged 1/2" outlets top and bottom for breather and drain.
• Finish: Gray epoxy powder coat inside and outside providing a NEMA 4, 4X rating.
• Grounding Ready: Ground lug package and installation instructions for termination of ground wire are enclosed.

Certifications & Compliance

• Class I, Division 1 and 2, Groups B, C, D
• Class II, Division 1 and 2, Groups E, F, G
• Class III
• NEMA 4, 4X

Technical Specifications

• Standard Finishes: Gray epoxy powder coat inside and outside, providing NEMA 4X rating.
• Options: 1NO/1NC or 2NO/2NC auxiliary switch, breather, drain, external grounding stud, plastic nameplate.
• NEC Certifications and Compliances: Class I/II Div. 1 & 2, Groups B, C, D, E, F, G; Class III; NEMA 4, 4X.
• Standard Materials: Copperfree (4/10 of 1% max.) aluminum bodies/covers; stainless steel disconnects, shafts, bolts, hinges; neoprene O-ring.

Typical Applications

• Hazardous-Location Electrical Installations
• Overload and Short-Circuit Protection
• Control of Lighting and Power Circuits
• Petrochemical and Industrial Processing Facilities
• Wet and Outdoor Locations Requiring NEMA 4X Protection

Why Appleton?

Appleton engineers the AE Series with copper-free aluminum construction, stainless steel hardware, and a precision-machined flame path to deliver explosionproof, dust-ignitionproof performance where it matters most. With a NEMA 4, 4X gray epoxy powder coat finish and hazardous-location Class I, II, and III compliance, these disconnect switches are built for reliable, code-compliant performance in demanding industrial and hazardous-duty applications.