Why Choose the ABB E290-16-20/8 Latching Relay?
The ABB E290-16-20/8 is a compact and reliable electromechanical latching relay designed for impulse-controlled switching in lighting, building control and electrical distribution applications. As part of the ABB E290 latching relay series, it combines a 16 A rated switching current with two normally open contacts and an 8 V AC control coil.
Unlike a conventional monostable relay, the E290 uses an impulse-operated mechanical latching mechanism to change and retain its contact state. Each short control pulse briefly energises the coil and changes the mechanically held switching position, allowing the contacts to remain in their selected state without continuous coil energisation until the next impulse is received.
With a 16 A rated current, 250 V AC contact voltage and 8 V AC control voltage, the E290-16-20/8 provides two normally open switching contacts in a compact 18 mm DIN rail module. This makes it particularly suitable for lighting circuits operated from multiple push-button locations in residential, commercial and industrial installations.
Key Advantages
- Reliable electromechanical latching relay for impulse-controlled switching.
- 16 A rated switching current for electrical load control.
- Two normally open (2NO) contacts for simultaneous switching.
- 8 V AC control coil for compatible low-voltage control circuits.
- Mechanically retains its switching state without continuous coil energisation.
- Compact 18 mm DIN rail module for space-efficient installation.
Key Features
- ABB E290 mechanical latching relay series.
- 16 A rated current.
- 250 V AC contact voltage.
- 2NO normally open contact configuration.
- 8 V AC control voltage.
- 0.64 W power loss.
- Front operating lever for manual control and contact-position indication.
- DIN rail mounting with screw-terminal connections.
Efficient Impulse Switching for Electrical Installations
Latching relays such as the ABB E290 use short electrical control impulses to change their switching state. The internal mechanical latching mechanism retains the contact position after the control pulse ends, eliminating the need for continuous coil energisation and reducing power consumption in the control circuit.
The E290 series is particularly useful for lighting systems that need to be controlled from several locations. Normally open impulse push-buttons can provide switching commands from different points while the centrally mounted relay performs the load switching inside the electrical distribution board.
Typical Applications
- Lighting circuits controlled from multiple locations.
- Residential houses and apartment installations.
- Commercial and public buildings.
- Factory premises and industrial plants.
- Impulse push-button control circuits.
- DIN rail mounted electrical distribution and switching systems.
