# Bolted connecting link, open

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/bolted-link-open
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-28
Lookup label: X
Drawing use: SLD, Schematic
Reference families: IEC, IEEE / ANSI

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.

### Terms

- 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.

Concept diagram: Identify the device and form → Read the connections and state → Check the equipment reference
A guide to reading this reference. The original symbol illustration and its drawing notes appear below; these boxes are not a wiring diagram.

- [IEC-60617 symbol preview directory](https://help.autodesk.com/cloudhelp/2021/ENU/AutoCAD-Electrical/files/GUID-7871E6EF-24D5-467E-9B74-321FEDC9DFDA.htm)
- [IEEE/ANSI 315-1975: graphic symbols for electrical and electronics diagrams](https://standards.ieee.org/ieee/315/515/)


## 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.

## Important distinction

An open link is closed only when dead; a normally open switch can be closed in service.

## Facts

- Graphic cue: Two terminal points with the link bar absent or set aside
- Operation: Closed only with the circuit dead
- Preview: Original educational illustration; consult the publisher and applicable standard for the exact graphic

## Public references

- [IEC-60617 symbol preview directory](https://help.autodesk.com/cloudhelp/2021/ENU/AutoCAD-Electrical/files/GUID-7871E6EF-24D5-467E-9B74-321FEDC9DFDA.htm) — Autodesk. Public directory of IEC-oriented symbol families.
- [IEEE/ANSI 315-1975: graphic symbols for electrical and electronics diagrams](https://standards.ieee.org/ieee/315/515/) — IEEE Standards Association. Standards context for link and connection graphics.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.