Miniature circuit-breakers (MCBs) are now available with a short-circuit breaking capacity (ICU) of 15kA from Eaton MEM. They have been developed to meet the needs of modern high-rise commercial developments:
These new Eaton-MEM MCBs are now available to meet the needs of modern high-rise commercial developments where the use of large transformers and low-impedance busbar riser systems may result in high prospective fault current levels at the final distribution board. They offer a compact alternative to the moulded-case circuit-breakers normally used in such conditions and achieve short-circuit discrimination with downstream devices.
MCBs typically have short-circuit breaking capacities of 6 - 10kA. Above this, it is customary to use MCCBs. However, space constraints in modern buildings mean that MCCBs do not meet the needs of consultants who are looking for more compact circuit breakers.
The new 15kA Memshield 2 MCBs are available in ratings from 6A to 63A, Types B and C, as single-pole or three-pole units. All units - including the 63A rating - have a standard 18mm width per pole and fit into a Memshield 2 distribution board (equivalent MCCBs would be 25 - 30mm per pole).
Conversion option to combined RCBO using a ‘Pod’:
An added feature of Memshield 2 MCBs is the ability to convert them to combined MCB/RCD (RCBO) operation by fitting a special RCD 'pod'. Pods are available in 10mA, 30mA and 100mA sensitivities for instantaneous operation or 100mA and 300mA time-delayed versions. This gives specifiers and installers the freedom to select any combination of overcurrent and residual current protection. The 'pods' do not increase the width of the MCB and can be retro-fitted to Memshield 2 MCBs. RCBOs can be factory assembled to order.
The new 15kA ICU Memshield 2 circuit-breakers have been rigorously tested to BS EN 60947-2: Specification for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear.
Circuit breakers:
The incentive for development of the new 15kA Memshield 2 MCBs came from major UK consultants working on high-rise developments in Central London. Another major development in the South of England called for both 15kA short circuit breaking capacities and residual current protection.
Probably unique to Eaton-MEM:
"We believe that at present no other manufacturer offers RCBOs with a 15kA short-circuit breaking capacity" says David Pitt, Product Manager for circuit-breakers at Eaton MEM. "While initial use has been in the London area, we anticipate the trend migrating to other parts of the country as consultants apply the same specifications elsewhere."
Contact: Richard Hunt
Eaton Electric Ltd.,
Reddings Lane, Birmingham B11 3EZ
Tel: 0121 685 2100 Fax: 0121 706 2012
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.memonline.com
And: www.eaton.com