2pole

2pole is a descriptive term used across multiple disciplines to indicate the presence of two poles or two separate conducting paths. In electrical engineering, it is applied to components such as switches, circuit breakers, relays, and contactors that are designed to control or interrupt two distinct circuits or phases. A 2-pole switch or breaker can disconnect both conductors in a circuit, typically providing enhanced safety by ensuring that the circuit is fully de-energized when opened. This is in contrast to 1-pole devices, which switch only a single conductor, and 3-pole devices used for three-phase systems.

In relays and contactors, the designation 2-pole refers to two separate switching contacts that operate together. The two poles can switch either two live conductors in a standard AC circuit or two separate circuits within a single device. The term does not specify a particular rating, so voltage, current, and safety standards vary by product.

In magnetism, a 2-pole magnet has two opposite magnetic poles, commonly labeled north and south. This dipole arrangement is foundational in the design of many motors, generators, and sensors. More poles can create more complex field patterns and enable different mechanical and electrical characteristics.

The term also appears in connector and cabling contexts, where 2-pole may describe two-conductor arrangements in ports, plugs, or cables. When encountered, the exact meaning depends on the device’s function, specifications, and intended application.

See also: Pole (electric), Poles (magnet), Circuit breaker, Relay, Contactor, Magnetic dipole.