Product Overview
The EATON PL9-C20/2 is a Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) specifically designed for AC (Alternating Current) applications. As a part of Eaton’s xPole series (which includes PL9 and PL10 ranges), this device provides essential overcurrent protection for electrical circuits in residential, commercial, and light industrial environments. The “C20” in the model code indicates a C-curve tripping characteristic and a rated current of 20 Amperes (A). The “/2” signifies that it is a 2-pole breaker, capable of interrupting current on two separate lines, typically phase and neutral in a single-phase system, or two phases in a multi-phase system.
The PL9-C20/2 incorporates both thermal and magnetic tripping mechanisms. The thermal element provides protection against prolonged overloads, while the magnetic element ensures rapid interruption in the event of a short circuit. Its C-curve characteristic makes it suitable for general applications with moderate inrush currents, such as lighting circuits, general-purpose power outlets, small motors, and various appliances. Designed for easy installation on standard DIN rails, the EATON PL9-C20/2 is a reliable and safe component for modern electrical distribution systems, safeguarding wiring and connected equipment.
Technical Specifications
Main Features and Advantages
The EATON PL9-C20/2 Miniature Circuit Breaker offers several key features and advantages that highlight its effectiveness and reliability in AC electrical protection:
Comprehensive Dual Protection: The PL9-C20/2 integrates both thermal and magnetic trip units. The thermal mechanism protects against sustained overloads, gradually tripping when excessive current heats a bimetallic strip. The magnetic mechanism provides instantaneous tripping for high-magnitude short circuits, reacting swiftly to prevent damage. This dual protection ensures robust safeguarding of electrical circuits and equipment.
C-Curve Tripping Characteristic: The “C” characteristic means the breaker’s magnetic trip unit will activate when the current reaches between 5 to 10 times its rated current (20A), in addition to its thermal overload function. This makes it a versatile choice for general applications where moderate inrush currents might occur upon switching on, such as lighting circuits, general-purpose outlets, and the startup of resistive or slightly inductive loads.
2-Pole System Protection: As a 2-pole breaker, the EATON PL9-C20/2 is designed to interrupt both live conductors simultaneously in the event of a fault (e.g., phase and neutral in a single-phase system, or two phases in a multi-phase system). This ensures complete isolation of the faulty circuit, which is crucial for electrical safety and effective troubleshooting.
High Breaking Capacity: With a rated short-circuit breaking capacity typically of 6 kA or 10 kA, the PL9-C20/2 can safely and reliably interrupt significant fault currents. This capability is vital for protecting the entire electrical installation from severe damage in the event of a major short circuit.
User-Friendly Design for Installation and Maintenance:
- Contact Position Indicator: A clear red-green indicator on the front provides immediate visual feedback of the breaker’s internal contact status (red for ON, green for OFF/Tripped), enhancing safety during operation and maintenance.
- Dual Function Terminals: The terminals are designed to accept wiring from either the top or bottom, offering flexibility in wiring layout and simplifying the installation process in crowded distribution boards.
- DIN Rail Mounting: Standard 35mm DIN rail mounting allows for quick, secure, and standardized installation into consumer units and industrial distribution boards, ensuring seamless integration into existing electrical panels.
- Robust Construction: Built with durable materials and tested for resilience, ensuring long-term reliability and performance in demanding electrical environments.
Application Field
The EATON PL9-C20/2 Miniature Circuit Breaker is widely utilized for overcurrent and short-circuit protection in various AC electrical installations where a 20A C-curve two-pole protection is required. Its primary application fields include:
Residential and Commercial Buildings:
- Main Branch Circuits: Commonly used for the main protection of branch circuits supplying general-purpose outlets, groups of lighting fixtures, or dedicated appliance circuits in homes and offices.
- Kitchen and Utility Room Circuits: Suitable for protecting circuits feeding medium-power kitchen appliances (e.g., dishwashers, microwaves) or utility room equipment.
- Small HVAC Systems: Can be used for protecting the power supply to smaller air conditioning units or heating systems.
Light Industrial and Commercial Facilities:
- General Power Distribution: Protection for sub-distribution panels, lighting panels, and power outlets in workshops, small factories, retail stores, and warehouses.
- Small Motor Protection: Suitable for protecting circuits supplying small single-phase motors that have moderate starting current requirements, such as those in fans, pumps, or conveyors.
- Control Panel Circuits: Used within industrial control panels to protect power supplies for PLCs, HMIs, and other control components from overcurrents and short circuits.
Specialized Equipment and OEM Applications:
- Integrated into the electrical systems of various Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) products, such as custom machinery, industrial ovens, or specialized commercial equipment that requires reliable 20A, 2-pole circuit protection.
The PL9-C20/2 provides reliable protection for circuits with moderate power demands, bridging the gap between very low-current protective devices and higher-current main circuit breakers.
Related Products
The EATON PL9-C20/2 Miniature Circuit Breaker is an integral part of Eaton’s comprehensive electrical distribution and protection product line. It often works in conjunction with other components to form a complete and safe electrical system. Related products typically include:
