Description
- Model: ENTRELEC SCHIELE DL42N-22
- Brand: ENTRELEC / SCHIELE (Now ABB)
- Series: DL Series Compact Timer Relays
- Core Function: Multi-functional time delay relay for sequence control
- Product Type: Timing Relay / Control Module
- Key Specs: 24-240 V AC/DC Universal Supply 2 Changeover Contacts (SPDT) Adjustable Time Ranges
ENTRELEC SCHIELE DL42N-22
Key Technical Specifications
- Supply Voltage: 24 V to 240 V AC (50/60 Hz) and 24 V to 240 V DC
- Timing Functions: Delay-on-make, Delay-on-break, Flasher, etc. (Function selectable)
- Time Ranges: 0.05 seconds to 100 hours (Multiple sub-ranges via rotary switch)
- Contact Configuration: 2 SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) contacts
- Contact Rating: 4 A at 230 V AC (Inductive/AC-15) / 5 A (Resistive/AC-1)
- Mounting: 35mm DIN rail (EN 50022)
- Housing Width: 22.5 mm (Standard Slimline)
- Indicator LEDs: Green (U – Power), Red (R – Relay status)
- Terminals: Screw clamp terminal blocks (IP20 protection)
- Mechanical Life: > 30 million operations
Application Scenarios & Pain Points
In legacy automation panels, the SCHIELE DL42N-22 is often the “brain” behind simple machine logic. Whether it’s managing a star-delta motor starter sequence or a conveyor belt delay, this module is critical. The main pain point today is that many of these units have been in service for 20+ years. When the internal electrolytic capacitors finally dry out or the relay contacts weld, the entire machine sequence halts. Since ABB acquired Schiele/Entrelec, these specific older “DL” models are getting harder to find as direct replacements, and modern digital timers often have different wiring footprints.
Typical Application Scenarios:
- Motor Control Centers (MCC) Managing the transition timing for star-delta starters to reduce inrush current.
- Packaging Machinery Controlling the duration of heat sealers or the delay between conveyor indexing steps.
- HVAC Systems Providing a “short-cycle” delay for compressors to prevent motor burnout during rapid power toggling.
- Lighting & Pump Control Automating the duty cycle of auxiliary pumps in water treatment or commercial building systems.
Case Study: The “Stuck” Assembly Line
Background: A regional automotive parts supplier was using an ENTRELEC DL42N-22 to control the glue-dispensing dwell time on a legacy assembly jig.
The Problem: The machine suddenly began dispensing glue indefinitely, ruining several hundred dollars’ worth of components in minutes. The technician found the “R” LED on the timer was stuck ON, even when the trigger signal was removed. The internal relay had reached its end-of-life and the contacts had welded shut.
The Solution: The plant manager couldn’t afford a full PLC upgrade for such a simple machine. We provided an original DL42N-22 from our New Surplus stock.
Result:
- Installation: 10 minutes (Direct DIN-rail swap, no rewiring required).
- Cost Savings: Prevented a $5,000 panel redesign and minimized production downtime.
- Verification: We walked the customer through setting the rotary knobs to match their original 1.5s delay.
Compatible Replacement Models
The DL42N-22 is highly versatile due to its universal voltage range, making it a common replacement for many older single-voltage timers.
| Original Model | Replacement/Alternative | Compatibility | Key Differences | Change Required |
| DL42N-22 | ABB CT-MXS.22S | ⚠️ Software Compatible | Modern equivalent from ABB CT range. Same functions. | Wiring locations differ; check terminal numbering. |
| DL42N-22 | SCHIELE DL41N | ❌ Incompatible | Usually single-function or different voltage range. | Not a recommended substitute. |
| DL42N-22 | ENTRELEC DL42N-22 (Newer Rev) | ✅ Direct Replace | Identical specs and terminal assignments. | None. Plug and play. |
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Related to DL42N-22? | Quick Check | Action |
| “U” LED (Green) is Off | Power Supply Failure | ❌ Low | Measure voltage between A1 and A2 terminals. | Restore power (24-240V). |
| Time Delay is Inaccurate | Knob Potentiometer Wear | ✅ High | Check if vibration has moved the knobs or if timing drifts over 10%. | Replace module; internal pot is failing. |
| “R” LED is On but no Load | Contact Failure | ✅ High | Measure continuity across 15-18 or 25-28. | Relay contacts are likely welded. Replace unit. |
| Timer won’t trigger | Control Signal Missing | ⚠️ Medium | Measure voltage at the “S” (Start) terminal. | Check upstream sensor or button. |
| Relay Chatters/Buzzes | Undervoltage | ⚠️ Medium | Verify supply voltage is within ±10% of rating. | Stable the power source. |
❗ Pro-Tip: The “Dual-Contact” Advantage
The DL42N-22 features two sets of changeover contacts. I’ve seen many engineers only use one. If your machine is critical and you have a spare set of contacts on the module, you can sometimes use the second set as a “feedback” signal to your PLC to verify the timer actually switched. It’s a cheap way to add a layer of diagnostic safety.
