1. Core Parameters and Technical Characteristics
Basic Specifications
Poles: 3P (three poles), suitable for three-phase four-wire power distribution systems, capable of切断 three-phase power simultaneously.
Rated Current: 20A (under AC-3 duty category, can protect approximately 11kW loads at 400V).
Tripping Curve: Type C (instantaneous tripping at 5-10 times the rated current), suitable for conventional loads such as lighting and sockets, and can withstand short-term inrush currents (e.g., fluorescent lamp startup).
Breaking Capacity: 6kA (400V AC), meeting the short-circuit protection requirements of most low-voltage power distribution scenarios.
Electrical Performance
Rated Operating Voltage: 400V AC, supporting 50/60Hz frequency.
Current Limiting Class: Class 3, which can quickly limit the rise of short-circuit current and reduce the risk of equipment damage.
Mechanical Life: 200,000 operations; Electrical Life: 100,000 operations, ensuring long-term stability and reliability.
Environmental Adaptability
Operating Temperature: -35℃ to +70℃, suitable for harsh industrial environments.
Moisture and Heat Resistance: Class 2 (55℃, 95% relative humidity), suitable for use in humid areas.
2. Certifications and Standards
Domestic Certification: Passed CCC certification, compliant with GB10963.1 “Overcurrent Protection Circuit Breakers for Household and Similar Premises” standard.
International Certification: CE certified, compliant with IEC 60898-1 “Overcurrent Protection Circuit Breakers for Household and Similar Premises” standard, applicable to global markets.
Isolation Function: The handle displays a green indicator when disconnected, meeting the isolation requirements of IEC 60947-2 to ensure maintenance safety.
3. Application Scenarios
Industrial Automation: Used for short-circuit and overload protection in three-phase motor control circuits, cooperating with contactors to realize motor start-stop control.
Commercial Building Power Distribution: Protection for three-phase lighting systems, air conditioning units, and elevator power supplies in places such as shopping malls and office buildings.
Energy Infrastructure: Protection for output terminals of distributed energy equipment such as photovoltaic inverters and small generators.
Residential Three-Phase Incoming Line: Comprehensive protection of three-phase power for main distribution boxes in high-end residences or small factories.
4. Installation and Wiring
Installation Method: Supports 35mm standard DIN rail mounting, with a width of only 54mm (3 poles), saving distribution box space.
Wiring Specifications
Main Circuit: Supports 1-25mm² single-strand hard wires or 1-16mm² flexible wires (with terminals), tightening torque is 2.5N·m.
Terminal Type: Tunnel-type terminal design, anti-misoperation and firm wiring, suitable for quick construction.
5. Model Selection and Alternative Solutions
Same Series Alternatives
IC65N-3P/D20A: Type D curve (instantaneous tripping at 10-14 times), suitable for impulsive loads such as motors.
IC65H-3P/C20A: Breaking capacity increased to 10kA, suitable for industrial scenarios with high short-circuit currents.
International Brand Alternatives
ABB S263-C20: Compatible parameters, similar installation dimensions, breaking capacity 6kA.
Siemens 5SJ6 320-C20: Type C curve, breaking capacity 6kA, with overload alarm function.
6. Price and Purchase Suggestions
Market Reference Price: Approximately 25-30 yuan for single-pole, 70-90 yuan for 3P model (domestic channels in 2025).
Purchase Channels
Official Authorized Distributors: Such as Schneider WhatsApp: 0086-13811255435
Precautions
– For leakage protection, it is necessary to match the Vigi IC65N module (e.g., A9D65232) to achieve 30mA leakage action protection.
– Derating is required in high-temperature environments (>40℃). It is recommended to consult the technical manual or Schneider engineers.
7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular Inspection
– Clean the oxide layer on the contact surface every 6 months to ensure good contact.
– Check the flexibility of the handle operation to avoid tripping failure caused by mechanical jamming.
Troubleshooting
Frequent Tripping: May be caused by overload, short circuit, or loose wiring; need to check the load and线路 one by one.
Contact Ablation: If blackening or adhesion of contacts is found, the circuit breaker must be replaced in time to avoid fire risks.
Based on the above information, IC65N-3P/C20A has become one of the mainstream choices in the low-voltage power distribution field due to its high reliability, flexible expandability, and wide applicability. In practical applications, a comprehensive evaluation based on load characteristics, environmental conditions, and installation space is required to ensure the safe and stable operation of the system.
