Starter Breakers & Disconnects
Starter breakers and IEC disconnects play a critical role in protecting motor control circuits from overloads and short circuits. RSP Supply carries a wide selection of starter breakers and IEC disconnects available in single and double pole configurations, designed for use in industrial motor control panels and automation systems. These devices support compliance with electrical codes that require both thermal and magnetic protection for motor circuits.
Thermal protection safeguards motors against overload and locked-rotor conditions, while magnetic protection interrupts the circuit during short-circuit events. Motor control systems commonly use either a three-component protection method consisting of a circuit breaker, contactor, and thermal overload relay or a two-component system that combines thermal and magnetic protection into a single thermal-magnetic circuit breaker (TMCB) paired with a contactor. The two-component approach helps reduce the risk of mismatched protection devices and improves coordination within the motor control system.
IEC disconnects, and starter breakers are frequently used to provide local isolation, manual disconnect capability, and circuit protection for motors and control equipment. Devices such as Schneider Electric TeSys GB2 motor circuit protectors integrate thermal and magnetic protection in a compact design, making them well-suited for protecting control circuits, power supplies, PLCs, and small industrial loads that may generate high inrush currents.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of a starter breaker or IEC disconnect?
Starter breakers and IEC disconnects provide circuit protection and isolation for motor control systems, helping protect equipment from overloads and short circuits.
Q: What is the difference between thermal and magnetic protection?
Thermal protection responds to sustained overcurrent conditions, while magnetic protection responds instantly to short-circuit faults.
Q: What is a thermal-magnetic circuit breaker (TMCB)?
A TMCB combines thermal overload protection and magnetic short-circuit protection into a single device, reducing component count and improving protection coordination.
Q: What is the advantage of a two-component motor protection system?
A two-component system reduces the risk of mismatched protection devices by combining overload and short-circuit protection in one unit paired with a contactor.
Q: Are IEC disconnects available in single and double pole versions?
Yes, IEC disconnects are available in both single and double pole configurations to meet different voltage and application requirements.
Why Buy Starter Breakers & IEC Disconnects from RSP Supply
RSP Supply offers a comprehensive selection of starter breakers and IEC disconnects designed for reliable motor control and circuit protection. Our products support code-compliant designs, simplified system coordination, and dependable operation in industrial environments. Customers rely on RSP Supply for technical expertise, trusted manufacturers, and industrial solutions built for long-term performance.