Trip Circuit Breakers
The trip circuit breaker switch-disconnector operates like a conventional switch-disconnector: it ensures that the…
What is a trip circuit breaker switch-disconnector?
Trip circuit breaker switch-disconnectors are equipped with auxiliary coils that enable remote control:
- Shunt trip coil to trigger opening as soon as it receives a control signal.
- Undervoltage coil that automatically opens the circuit if the voltage drops below a predefined threshold.
You select your auxiliary coil based on the voltage of the control circuit. This can range from 12V, 24V, 48V, 110V, or 230V AC/DC depending on the available models.
Why use a trip circuit breaker switch-disconnector?
Enhanced Safety
The switch-disconnector provides visible circuit separation, ensuring complete disconnection. The addition of the coil and automatic tripping allows for faster response during faults or dangerous conditions, thereby ensuring enhanced safety!
Remote Control and System Integration
These devices can be integrated into building management systems (BMS) or industrial programmable logic controllers (PLCs). This integration allows installations to be shut down remotely in emergencies by tripping the switch and ensuring automatic emergency shutdown if other protective devices fail.
Technical Specifications of Trip Circuit Breaker Switch-Disconnectors
- Mechanical endurance: 20,000 to 50,000 operations depending on the model
- Electrical endurance: 1,500 to 8,000 cycles at rated load
- Breaking capacity: AC-22A (mixed resistive/inductive circuits) or AC-23A (motors)
- Operating temperature: -25°C to +70°C
- Protection rating: IP20 minimum for terminals
How to Choose Your Trip Circuit Breaker Switch-Disconnector?
To select the right product from our Schneider and Legrand range, you need to consider several factors: current rating, number of poles, and operating voltage. We'll explain everything you need to know!
Current Rating
The current rating is the maximum current that the device can handle continuously. For small commercial applications, ratings typically range from 20A to 63A. Commercial and industrial installations require higher ratings: 80A to 160A. Heavy industrial applications need ratings of 200A, 250A, 400A, and above.
Number of Poles
The number of poles refers to the number of conductors that the switch-disconnector will interrupt. In single-phase circuits, a two-pole switch is used to disconnect both phase and neutral. Three-phase installations require a four-pole device to disconnect the three phases and neutral.
Operating Voltage
The switch-disconnector you choose must be compatible with your installation's operating voltage. The operating voltage is the normal voltage at which your electrical installation operates daily. In residential applications, this is typically around 230 volts, while in factories or large buildings (industrial or commercial sectors), it's closer to 400 volts.
Trip Accessories
If you want to control the switch-disconnector remotely, it must be compatible with specific accessories (such as a shunt trip coil or undervoltage coil). These accessories allow automatic opening when necessary. It's therefore essential that all components are properly matched to ensure the installation operates correctly and safely.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is performed on DIN rail mounting within your electrical panel. Regular maintenance is required to verify the position of the switching mechanism and ensure proper device operation (particularly for remote control accessories).
Our technical team is available to advise you on selecting your Schneider or Legrand trip circuit breaker switch-disconnector. Please don't hesitate to contact them!