Molded Case Circuit Breakers (R Frame)
Schneider Electric manufactures the R-frame molded case circuit breakers as part of its PowerPact series. The purpose of these square D breakers is to provide strong electrical protection in any kind of industrial or commercial application where you might have large currents flowing. "R" is a designation that dates from the time when circuit breakers for these applications were using a round design. Now, of course, everything's gone to a rectangular prism architecture.
Built to last, the R-frame breaker line is made to be tough and take on heavy-duty demands and operate in challenging, often harsh, environments. They are constructed from top-quality materials and feature superior components for reliable, long-term performance with very little up-keep or maintenance. The line has a proven track record of durability and standout service.
Products
What is a Circuit Breaker?
There are two different types of technologies that are commonly used in circuit breakers.
Magnetic Breakers
Magnetic Breakers are designed to react to short circuits or sharp spikes in voltage and current. The more current that passes through the breaker’s electromagnet, the stronger the magnet becomes. When the current exceeds the rating for that particular breaker, the magnetic force becomes strong enough that it will pull the contact back and disconnect it from the other contact, disconnecting power from the device.
Thermal Protection Breakers
Thermal Protection Breakers protect against a sustained overcurrent, or a higher current, for a longer period of time. Thermal protection uses a Bimetal strip that will bend the contacts away from each other to disconnect power. Thermal Magnetic Breakers are the most common type of circuit breakers. They combine magnetic technology to protect against short circuits or sharp spikes and thermal technology that protects against sustained overcurrent for a long period of time.