X
Bolted connecting link, closed
A bolted bar link providing a removable connection, shown closed, that can only be opened with tools and no load.
SLD / Schematic
Symbols · X
Bolted connecting link, open
A bolted connecting link drawn removed, showing a deliberate open point that needs tools and a dead circuit to close.
In plain English
What does Bolted connecting link, open mean?
The open link shows a planned open point in a circuit. Network diagrams use it to show normally open points between feeders, and switchboards use it for sections that are kept separated. The link may be stored beside the terminals or removed entirely.
A simple example
Because a link cannot be closed under load or onto a fault, an open link is a firm separation and should not be confused with a normally open switch that can be operated in service. Check the operating procedure before assuming it can be used for transfer.
What the drawings help you do
Do not read the open link as a switchable tie. Check whether the link is stored nearby or removed. An open link is closed only when dead; a normally open switch can be closed in service.
This particular reference
A bolted connecting link drawn removed, showing a deliberate open point that needs tools and a dead circuit to close. An open link is closed only when dead; a normally open switch can be closed in service.
- Terminal
- An identified point where a conductor connects.
- Rating
- A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
- Schematic
- A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.
Read the source: IEC-60617 symbol preview directory · IEEE/ANSI 315-1975: graphic symbols for electrical and electronics diagrams
SLD / Schematic · X
What it represents
The open link shows a planned open point in a circuit. Network diagrams use it to show normally open points between feeders, and switchboards use it for sections that are kept separated. The link may be stored beside the terminals or removed entirely.
Because a link cannot be closed under load or onto a fault, an open link is a firm separation and should not be confused with a normally open switch that can be operated in service. Check the operating procedure before assuming it can be used for transfer.
How to read it
- Do not read the open link as a switchable tie.
- Check whether the link is stored nearby or removed.
Information to show or reference
- State why the link is open.
- Identify where the removed link is kept.
- Distinguish open links from normally open switches.
A distinction that matters
An open link is closed only when dead; a normally open switch can be closed in service.
Sources you can follow
These public references support the explanation and provide further detail. Their graphics and downloadable files remain with their publishers.
IEC-60617 symbol preview directory
Public directory of IEC-oriented symbol families.
IEEE/ANSI 315-1975: graphic symbols for electrical and electronics diagrams
Standards context for link and connection graphics.
About this graphic
This illustration was authored independently by Elora Grid to explain the concept. It is not reproduced from a customer drawing, an official standard graphic or a manufacturer CAD file. Its correspondence to an exact IEC or IEEE symbol identifier has not been certified.
SVG and DXF downloads contain this original artwork. DXF uses unscaled drawing units; a GA envelope supplies no product dimensions, clearances or fabrication information. Original artwork is available under CC BY 4.0. Third-party references retain their own terms.
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