MEAN WELL LRS-35-12 Industrial Control Switching Power Supply 36W 12V 3A

The MEAN WELL LRS-35-12 Industrial Control Switching Power Supply is a compact and reliable 36W power solution engineered for demanding industrial environments. Delivering a stable 12V DC output at 3A, this unit excels in providing efficient power conversion for a wide array of control systems, automation equipment, and electronic devices. Its key advantages lie in its robust design, high efficiency, and comprehensive protection features, making it a superior choice for applications requiring consistent and safe power delivery.

Product Specifications

| Parameter             | Value                                         |

| :-------------------- | :-------------------------------------------- |

| Product Name      | MEAN WELL LRS-35-12                           |

| Output Voltage    | 12V DC                                        |

| Output Current    | 3A                                            |

| Rated Power       | 36W                                           |

| Input Voltage Range| 85-264VAC (AC) / 120-370VDC (DC)              |

| Efficiency (typ.) | 87%                                           |

| Operating Temp.   | -30°C to +70°C                                |

| Dimensions (LxWxH)| 78 x 51 x 28 mm                               |

| Certifications    | UL, TUV, CE, CB, EAC, UKCA                    |

| Protection        | Short circuit, Overload, Over voltage         |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The LRS-35-12 stands out in the competitive industrial power supply market due to its exceptional power density and broad operating temperature range, from -30°C to +70°C. This wide thermal envelope ensures reliable performance in extreme conditions, a critical factor for industrial automation and control. MEAN WELL's commitment to quality is evident in its compliance with major international safety certifications, including UL, TUV, and CE, reinforcing its position as a trusted component for critical applications. The unit's high efficiency of up to 87% minimizes energy waste and heat generation, contributing to a longer lifespan and reduced operational costs. Its compact footprint of just 78 x 51 x 28 mm allows for easy integration into space-constrained enclosures.

Key Application Scenarios

This 12V, 3A power supply is ideally suited for a diverse range of industrial control and automation applications. It is frequently employed in powering Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), sensors, actuators, and various low-voltage control circuitry. Sectors benefiting from the LRS-35-12 include manufacturing automation, building management systems, security and surveillance equipment, and telecommunications infrastructure. Its reliability makes it a sound choice for systems where uninterrupted operation is paramount, such as in conveyor systems, robotic cells, and process monitoring equipment.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the MEAN WELL LRS-35-12 is straightforward due to its standard input and output terminals. For installation, ensure adequate ventilation around the unit, as it operates on a convection cooling principle. The power supply accepts a wide AC input voltage range (85-264VAC) and can also operate from a DC input (120-370VDC), offering significant flexibility in system design. When wiring, connect the AC input terminals (L and N) to the mains supply and the DC output terminals (+V and -V) to the load. Always adhere to local electrical codes and ensure proper grounding through the FG terminal for safety. The output current rating of 3A should not be exceeded to prevent overload conditions.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the LRS-35-12 requires adherence to its specified input voltage and current limits to ensure safety and longevity. The built-in protections against short circuits, overloads, and over-voltage act as crucial safeguards. In the event of a short circuit or overload, the unit will typically shut down to protect itself and the connected equipment. Once the fault condition is rectified, the power supply can usually be reset by cycling the AC input power. Over-voltage protection is also integrated to prevent damage to sensitive downstream components if the output voltage deviates significantly from the nominal 12V. Regular inspection of wiring and connections is recommended to prevent potential issues.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The MEAN WELL LRS-35-12 offers excellent long-term value through its robust construction and Mean Well's reputation for product reliability. While this specific model is a fixed output unit, scalability in broader system design can be achieved by utilizing multiple LRS-35-12 units in parallel (if the load demands higher current, consulting Mean Well documentation for proper derating and wiring is advised) or by selecting other models within the LRS series that offer different voltage or current ratings. Its compatibility with standard DIN rail mounting (via optional accessories) and its ability to integrate into existing control panels enhance its utility. As industrial systems evolve towards greater connectivity and IIoT integration, the dependable power foundation provided by units like the LRS-35-12 remains essential for stable operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the maximum ambient temperature for the LRS-35-12?

The LRS-35-12 is designed to operate reliably in demanding industrial environments. It can function effectively within an ambient temperature range of -30°C to +70°C. This wide operating temperature ensures consistent performance across various climatic conditions and enclosed industrial cabinets.

This broad thermal capability is crucial for applications situated in uncontrolled environments or where heat buildup is a concern. Proper ventilation within the enclosure is still recommended to maintain optimal operating conditions and extend the product's lifespan.

Adhering to these temperature specifications is vital for preventing thermal stress and ensuring the power supply meets its rated lifespan and performance benchmarks.

Q2: Can I connect multiple LRS-35-12 units in parallel to increase current?

Connecting multiple LRS-35-12 units in parallel can increase the available output current for a load. However, this configuration requires careful consideration and adherence to specific guidelines. It is crucial to use units with identical voltage ratings and ensure proper current sharing among them.

Mean Well often provides application notes or specifications for parallel operation, which may include requirements for equalizing wires and derating the output current of each unit. Consulting the official MEAN WELL documentation for the LRS-35-12 series is essential before implementing a parallel setup.

Failure to follow proper parallel connection procedures can lead to uneven load distribution, premature failure of one or more units, and potential system instability or damage.

Q3: What types of loads are suitable for the LRS-35-12 power supply?

The MEAN WELL LRS-35-12 is well-suited for powering a wide range of low-voltage DC loads commonly found in industrial automation. This includes powering control circuits, sensors, actuators, PLCs, HMIs, and LED lighting systems. Its stable 12V output and 3A current capacity make it ideal for devices that require a consistent and reliable power source.

The power supply's efficiency and protection features make it particularly suitable for inductive or capacitive loads, provided the inrush current is within acceptable limits for the 3A rating. Always ensure the total power consumption of the connected load does not exceed the power supply's rated 36W.

For applications involving highly sensitive electronics or critical control systems, verifying compatibility with the LRS-35-12's output characteristics and ripple specifications is recommended to ensure optimal performance and system integrity.

Q4: Does the LRS-35-12 have over-voltage protection?

Yes, the MEAN WELL LRS-35-12 is equipped with integrated over-voltage protection (OVP). This feature safeguards connected equipment from potential damage if the output voltage exceeds a safe threshold. The OVP is a critical safety mechanism designed to trigger and shut down the power supply.

When the over-voltage protection is activated, the power supply will typically cease to deliver power. This action is intended to prevent the higher-than-normal voltage from reaching and damaging sensitive components in the connected load.

To resume operation after an over-voltage event, the fault condition causing the over-voltage must be identified and rectified, and the power supply usually needs to be reset by cycling the AC input power.

Q5: What is the efficiency rating of the LRS-35-12 and why is it important?

The LRS-35-12 boasts a high efficiency rating of up to 87%. This means that a significant portion of the input electrical energy is converted into usable DC output power, with minimal energy lost as heat. High efficiency is a key performance indicator for power supplies.

A higher efficiency rating translates to several practical benefits for industrial applications. It leads to reduced electricity consumption, lowering operational costs. It also minimizes heat generation, which can be critical in enclosed industrial spaces, allowing for more compact designs and potentially reducing the need for additional cooling systems.

Furthermore, efficient power supplies generally run cooler, contributing to longer component lifespan and improved overall system reliability, which is paramount in industrial settings where downtime is costly.

Q6: How do I properly ground the LRS-35-12 for safety?

Proper grounding of the LRS-35-12 is essential for electrical safety and optimal performance. The power supply features a dedicated FG (Frame Ground) terminal. This terminal should be securely connected to the chassis ground or earth ground of the equipment or enclosure it is installed in.

This grounding connection provides a path for fault currents to safely dissipate into the earth, preventing electric shock hazards to personnel and protecting the unit and connected load from electrical surges or faults. It also helps to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI).

Always use a conductor of appropriate gauge for the grounding connection, ensuring it is short and direct to the system's main ground point, in accordance with local electrical codes and safety standards.

Q7: What are the dimensions of the LRS-35-12?

The MEAN WELL LRS-35-12 power supply is designed for compact installations. Its physical dimensions are 78mm in length, 51mm in width, and 28mm in height (78 x 51 x 28 mm). This small form factor is advantageous for integration into control panels, enclosures, or machinery where space is at a premium.

The compact size allows multiple units to be placed close together on a DIN rail (with appropriate mounting accessories) or within tight cabinet spaces without compromising ventilation excessively. This is a significant benefit in modern automated systems where components are often densely packed.

When designing an enclosure, consider the specified ventilation requirements in addition to the physical dimensions to ensure the power supply operates within its optimal temperature range.

Q8: Can the LRS-35-12 be used with a DC input voltage?

Yes, the LRS-35-12 offers flexibility by supporting a wide DC input voltage range. In addition to its standard AC input capability (85-264VAC), it can accept a DC input voltage ranging from 120VDC to 370VDC. This dual input capability makes it adaptable to various power system architectures.

This feature is particularly useful in systems that may have a primary DC bus or where backup power systems are in place. It simplifies system design by allowing the power supply to be integrated into environments with either AC or DC power sources.

When using a DC input, ensure the voltage polarity is correctly observed, connecting the positive DC supply to the L terminal and the negative DC supply to the N terminal of the input side.

Q9: What types of protection features are included in the LRS-35-12?

The MEAN WELL LRS-35-12 industrial power supply incorporates several essential protection features to ensure operational safety and reliability. These include short-circuit protection (SCP), overload protection (OLP), and over-voltage protection (OVP). These built-in safeguards protect both the power supply and the connected loads from damage.

Short-circuit protection will shut down the output if a direct short occurs across the terminals. Overload protection activates if the connected load draws more current than the power supply is rated for (3A in this case). Over-voltage protection prevents damage if the output voltage exceeds safe limits.

These comprehensive protection mechanisms are critical for maintaining system stability and preventing costly failures in industrial control and automation applications, where consistent power is vital.

Q10: What certifications does the LRS-35-12 hold?

The LRS-35-12 has obtained numerous international safety and performance certifications, underscoring its reliability and suitability for global industrial deployment. Key certifications include UL (Underwriters Laboratories), TUV (Technical Inspection Association), CE (Conformité Européenne), CB (IEC Scheme for the Mutual Recognition of Test Certificates), EAC (Eurasian Economic Union), and UKCA (United Kingdom Conformity Assessed).

These certifications indicate that the product has undergone rigorous testing and meets strict standards for safety, electromagnetic compatibility, and performance in various regions and markets. For instance, UL and TUV certifications are crucial for North American and European markets, respectively.

Having these multiple certifications simplifies the design and approval process for manufacturers integrating the LRS-35-12 into their equipment destined for international markets, assuring customers of its quality and compliance.