Overview
What are DIN-Rail Power Supplies?
DIN-rail power supplies are switched-mode power supply (SMPS) units designed to snap onto standard TS-35 metal rails within industrial control cabinets. Their primary function is to convert incoming AC line voltage (typically 120V or 230V) into regulated DC voltage—most commonly 24VDC—to power PLCs, HMI panels, sensors, and electromagnetic actuators. These units are engineered for high vibrations, wide temperature fluctuations, and continuous 24/7 operation in factory environments.
Main Manufacturers
PALM Parts Solution stocks a comprehensive inventory of DIN-rail power supplies from the industry's leading automation brands:
- Allen-Bradley: High-performance units for Integrated Architecture systems.
- Siemens: Industry-standard SITOP power supplies for SIMATIC environments.
- Delta Electronics: Cost-effective, high-efficiency models for general-purpose automation.
- Schneider Electric: Phaseo and Modicon power solutions for global standards.
- Additional Stock Includes: Omron (S8VK series), Mitsubishi Electric, GE Fanuc, ABB, Bosch Rexroth, Beckhoff, B&R Industrial Automation, and Lenze.
Typical Applications
These power supplies are the backbone of any automated system across various sectors:
- Automotive Assembly: Powering Allen-Bradley ControlLogix racks and Kinetix servo drives logic.
- Food & Beverage: Providing stable power to IP67-rated sensors and stainless steel HMI stations.
- Water/Wastewater: Supporting remote telemetry units (RTUs) and Siemens S7-1200 controllers in pumping stations.
- Packaging Machinery: Energizing Lexium motion controllers and high-speed pneumatic valves.
Selection Guide
When selecting a replacement or new unit, consider these four technical pillars:
- Output Current (Amperage): Ensure the wattage (V x A) covers the peak startup current of inductive loads like solenoids or fans.
- Input Phase: Choose between single-phase AC for standard branch circuits or three-phase AC for large-scale power distribution.
- Advanced Features: Determine if your application requires Power Boost (for high-inrush loads), diagnostic signaling (IO-Link integration), or adjustable output voltages for voltage drop compensation on long cable runs.
- Efficiency and Heat: Higher efficiency ratings (90%+) translate to less heat generation in the cabinet, extending the lifespan of neighboring components like I/O modules and CPUs.
3 products · Schneider Electric
Frequently asked questions
How do I size a DIN-rail power supply for my control cabinet?
Select a unit by calculating the total peak current draw of all connected devices (PLCs, sensors, actuators) and adding a 20-25% safety margin. Ensure the output voltage (typically 24VDC) matches your control circuit and verify that the physical width fits the available space on your TS-35 rail.
What is the difference between regulated and unregulated power supplies?
A regulated power supply maintains a constant output voltage regardless of load changes or input fluctuations, which is critical for sensitive electronics like Siemens SIMATIC CPUs or Allen-Bradley Logix controllers. Unregulated supplies allow voltage to drop as load increases, making them unsuitable for most modern industrial automation.
Do I need a redundancy module for my 24VDC system?
Redundancy modules allow two power supplies to be connected in parallel. If one unit fails, the other takes over the full load instantly without a system reboot. This is essential for critical infrastructure and continuous process manufacturing.
Can these power supplies handle both 110V and 230V input?
Most industrial power supplies are designed for wide-range input, typically 100-240VAC for single-phase or 380-500VAC for three-phase systems. Always check the specific data sheet for the product family (e.g., SITOP or Quint Power) to ensure compatibility with your local grid.
Are DIN-rail power supplies waterproof?
Standard industrial DIN-rail power supplies carry an IP20 rating, meaning they are protected against finger-sized objects but have no protection against liquids. They must be installed inside a NEMA or IP-rated enclosure to prevent damage from dust, moisture, and oil.