Circuit breakers with size of cable termination
A very specific and important topic!
When selecting a circuit breaker, it's crucial to consider the size of the cable termination to ensure a proper and safe connection. Here's a general guide to help you choose the right circuit breaker with the correct cable termination size:
Cable Termination Size
Cable termination sizes are typically measured in square millimeters (mm²) or American Wire Gauge (AWG). The most common sizes are:
- 1.5 mm² to 4 mm² (14 AWG to 10 AWG)
- 6 mm² to 10 mm² (8 AWG to 6 AWG)
- 16 mm² to 35 mm² (4 AWG to 2 AWG)
- 50 mm² to 95 mm² (1 AWG to 0 AWG)
Circuit Breaker Size
Circuit breakers also have a specific size, which is usually indicated by the manufacturer. The size is typically measured in amperes (A) or kiloamperes (kA). The most common sizes are:
- 10 A to 63 A
- 80 A to 160 A
- 250 A to 400 A
- 630 A to 1250 A
Matching Cable Termination Size to Circuit Breaker Size
To ensure a proper connection, you need to match the cable termination size to the circuit breaker size. Here are some general guidelines:
- For 1.5 mm² to 4 mm² (14 AWG to 10 AWG) cables, use a circuit breaker with a rating of 10 A to 63 A.
- For 6 mm² to 10 mm² (8 AWG to 6 AWG) cables, use a circuit breaker with a rating of 80 A to 160 A.
- For 16 mm² to 35 mm² (4 AWG to 2 AWG) cables, use a circuit breaker with a rating of 250 A to 400 A.
- For 50 mm² to 95 mm² (1 AWG to 0 AWG) cables, use a circuit breaker with a rating of 630 A to 1250 A.
Important Considerations
When selecting a circuit breaker, also consider the following factors:
- Voltage rating: Ensure the circuit breaker is rated for the same voltage as the cable and application.
- Current rating: Verify the circuit breaker's current rating matches the cable's current-carrying capacity.
- Inrush current: If the load has a high inrush current (e.g., motors or transformers), choose a circuit breaker with a higher inrush current rating.
- Arc fault protection: If the application requires arc fault protection, ensure the circuit breaker has this feature.
Remember to always consult the manufacturer's specifications and guidelines for the specific circuit breaker and cable you are using. If in doubt, consult with a qualified electrician or engineer.