MCB C120N-C80-2 C 80A 2-pole A9N18361

High-current circuit protection in industrial and commercial installations

This device is a 2-pole miniature circuit breaker from the C120N series, designed for operation in circuits requiring protection at a rated current of 80 A. Its primary function is to automatically disconnect the power supply in the event of an overload or short circuit, protecting connected loads and cabling from damage. Thanks to its Type C tripping characteristic, the device exhibits a delayed response to short-term current surges, making it an ideal choice for circuits supplying inductive devices, such as motors or transformers, which generate higher currents during startup than in a steady state.

High breaking capacity is a key feature of this model in industrial applications. The circuit breaker guarantees safe disconnection of the circuit even during short circuits with intensities up to 10 kA (according to EN 60898-1) and has an Icu rated short-circuit breaking capacity of 20 kA at 230 V (according to IEC 60947-2). This level of parameters allows for the installation of the device directly near power sources or in main distribution boards, where the risk of high short-circuit currents is real. Energy limiting class 3 ensures rapid extinction of the electric arc, minimizing thermal and dynamic effects on the installation.

Mounting, compatibility, and operating conditions

Installation is performed standardly on a DIN rail, which facilitates quick mounting in modular distribution boards. The device width is 3 modules (approx. 54 mm), and the mounting depth is 44 mm – these dimensions must be taken into account when designing the dimensions of the distribution cabinet. The device supports conductors with a cross-section from 1 to 50 mm² (depending on the core type), providing great flexibility when selecting cabling for such a large rated current. It is worth noting that this model features a simultaneous disconnection function for both poles, which is required in many industrial applications to ensure full circuit isolation.

The device is adapted for operation in a wide range of ambient temperatures: from -25 °C to +70 °C, allowing its use in unheated production halls or technical rooms with difficult thermal conditions. The IP20 protection rating protects against access to live parts by fingers or tools with a diameter greater than 12 mm, but requires installation in a closed distribution enclosure. The rated insulation voltage is 500 V, and the impulse withstand voltage (Uimp) reaches 6 kV, ensuring safety in networks exposed to atmospheric or switching overvoltages.

Key benefits and practical applications

For the installer and end user, the most important aspects are not just the raw technical data, but their translation into system reliability:

• Protection of motors and inductive devices: The C characteristic allows for avoiding nuisance tripping during motor startups, which momentarily draw high current (up to 5-10 times higher than the rated current).
• Safety during short circuits: The ability to safely disconnect a short-circuit current of up to 10 kA means that even in the event of a serious installation failure, the circuit breaker will not seize or cause a fire via an electric arc.
• Expandability: The device has the possibility of additional equipment (e.g., auxiliary or alarm contacts), allowing for integration with remote installation monitoring systems without the need to replace the entire module.
• Compliance with standards: Certification according to EN 60898-1 and EN/IEC 60947-2 confirms suitability for both residential applications (for large consumers) as well as commercial and industrial ones.

Summarizing the key operational data: the device operates at a rated voltage of up to 415 V AC and requires mounting on a DIN rail, occupying a width of three modules. The cross-section of connected single-core conductors can reach up to 50 mm², and multi-core conductors up to 35 mm². The operating temperature range includes values from -25 °C to +70 °C, making it resistant to the difficult environmental conditions typical of production halls. The entire unit protects the circuit bipolarly with simultaneous disconnection of the phases and the neutral pole (if present), ensuring full isolation during service or failure.

This device is a solid component of the Acti9 system from Schneider Electric, combining high short-circuit performance with the precise overload protection necessary in modern electrical installations with increased power requirements.