unisolierter

Unisolierter is a German adjective meaning not insulated or bare. In everyday usage it describes objects that lack protective insulation, particularly exposed electrical conductors.

In electrical engineering, the term unisolierter Leiter refers to a conductor whose surface is not insulated, leaving the conductive material exposed. Bare conductors are used in certain contexts where insulation would hinder operation or accessibility, such as overhead power lines, busbars and grounding bars inside electrical equipment, or some laboratory and test setups. In many consumer and building installations, conductors are insulated to prevent accidental contact, reduce the risk of short circuits, and safeguard against environmental effects.

Safety and regulatory aspects emphasize that exposed conductors pose risks of electric shock, arc flash, and unintended contact. Their use is typically restricted to controlled environments or heighted by protective measures such as physical barriers, enclosures, warning signs, and appropriate training. When insulation is not employed, designers rely on alternative protective strategies, including spacing, insulation in nearby components, and secure mounting to minimize accidental contact.

The concept is distinguished from unisolated or insulated components, which incorporate protective coverings to prevent current flow to unintended paths. The term reflects a general principle in electrical design: insulation reduces safety hazards and improves reliability, and bare conductors are usually limited to specific, well-managed applications. Etymologically, unisolierter derives from un- plus isolieren (to insulate).