Why Katko upgraded the KSM range

Safety switches in the 16–25A bracket get specified across a wide spread of applications: HVAC and heat pump isolation, motor disconnection, rooftop solar AC isolators, food and beverage process equipment, water treatment, and machinery local isolation. Each of these brings its own challenge — UV exposure, washdown chemicals, vibration, or simply tight panel space.

The upgraded KSM responds to feedback from installers and panel builders working in those environments. The result is a switch that’s easier to wire, easier to seal, and rated for tougher conditions than its predecessor — without changing the familiar form factor that contractors already specify and stock.

Key improvements in the new KSM safety switch

IP67-rated enclosure for outdoor and demanding environments

The new KSM enclosure carries an IP67 rating, with self-extinguishing materials and strong insulation properties. It’s designed to withstand UV exposure, varied weather conditions, and a range of chemicals — making it suitable for rooftop installations, exterior plant rooms, agricultural sites and washdown areas alongside standard indoor use.

Faster installation with raised N and PE terminals

Inside the enclosure, the neutral and earth terminals have been raised to give installers more working space and clearer access. It’s a small change that pays back across every wiring job — especially when terminating larger conductors or working in low light.

Six cale entries for flexible cable routing

Cable management is often the deciding factor between a tidy install and an awkward one. The upgraded KSM offers six entry points to suit virtually any panel layout:

▸	Top: 2 × M20 knockouts
▸	Bottom: 2 × M20 membrane glands
▸	Back: 2 × M15 membrane glands

Membrane gaskets in the mounting holes and two strain reliefs supplied as standard help maintain the IP rating and deliver a neat, durable finish.

Lockable and sealable for compliant lockout/tagout

The handle can be padlocked in the OFF position for maintenance lockout and sealed (for example with a cable tie) in the ON position to prevent unauthorised switching. The enclosure cover can also be sealed at the corner with sealing wire — useful for utility metering, controlled-access plant and any installation requiring tamper-evident closure.

Available configurations

The upgraded KSM is offered in a wide range of variants so specifiers can match the switch to the application without over-ordering or compromising on features:

▸	2-, 3- or 4-pole versions
▸	Option with NO (normally open) auxiliary contact
▸	Option with cable glands pre-fitted
▸	Option with both NO auxiliary contact and cable glands
▸	Available in grey or black

The NO auxiliary contact is particularly useful where the switch needs to provide status feedback to a PLC, contactor circuit or BMS — common in HVAC, pumping and motor control applications.

 
                 

Why specify Katko safety switches

Katko is a Finnish family-owned manufacturer founded in 1938, specialising in safety switches, load break switches and fused switches. Products are manufactured in highly automated facilities in Finland and Poland, with a focus on consistent quality and long service life in demanding environments — from food and pharmaceutical plants to ATEX-rated hazardous areas and maritime installations.

The IsoSafe range — including the upgraded KSM — is tested to IEC 60947-3 and built to operate reliably across the temperature, voltage and environmental conditions encountered in Irish commercial and industrial installations.

Buy Katko IsoSafe KSM safety switches in Ireland

Demesne Electrical is the authorised Katko distributor in Ireland, supplying the full IsoSafe range alongside accessories and complementary switchgear from our Dublin, Cork and Dungannon branches. Our team can support specification, technical queries and stock availability across the upgraded KSM and the wider Katko portfolio.

You can also browse our full Katko range on the Demesne website.

Any questions about the upgraded KSM? Get in touch with our Product Manager, Shauna, for quotes, stock availability or technical advice on the IsoSafe KSM safety switch (16–25A): [email protected]