General Electric Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF: An Overview
GE’s circuit breaker catalog PDF provides comprehensive information on their extensive range of circuit breakers. It includes specifications, dimensions, and ordering information.
GE Circuit Breaker Types and Series
GE offers diverse circuit breaker series, including Q-Line, THQB, Spectra RMS, and TEY. Each series caters to specific applications and voltage requirements, outlined in their comprehensive catalog.
Q-Line Circuit Breakers
GE’s Q-Line circuit breakers are thermal-magnetic molded-case circuit breakers. They accept GE Q-Line branch circuit breakers, including GE’s exclusive 1/2 THQPs. These breakers feature Quick-make/Quick-break mechanisms, common trip bars, and easy-to-spot trip indication. The main breaker configuration allows top or bottom feed without modification, and a tie bar may be removed to split neutral/ground.
Full-length neutrals are easier to wire, reducing installation time and cost. They are suitable for residential load centers, extending into commercial applications. Main breakers can be ordered separately, and reverse feed THQL or THHQL circuit breakers can be used with a retainer.
THQB Bolt-On Circuit Breakers
GE’s THQB bolt-on circuit breakers are a type of molded case circuit breaker designed for reliable circuit protection. These breakers are available in single, two, and three-pole configurations, with amperage ranging from 15 to 100 amps. They have a voltage rating up to 240VAC, THQB breakers are recognized for their dependable performance.
These are ‘bolt-on’ breakers, meaning they are secured to the panelboard with bolts, ensuring a firm and secure connection. They are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. They are known for their easy installation and robust design, which makes them a good option.
Spectra RMS Circuit Breakers
Spectra RMS circuit breakers offer advanced protection and metering capabilities. These breakers have RMS sensing technology, providing accurate and reliable tripping. They are available in various frame sizes and amperage ratings to suit diverse applications.
Spectra RMS breakers often include features like adjustable trip settings, communication capabilities, and integrated metering. These features allow for enhanced monitoring and control of electrical systems. They are frequently used in commercial and industrial settings where precise protection and data are important. These breakers come with micro EntelliGuard trip units for added functionality. The catalog provides detailed info.
TEY Circuit Breakers
TEY circuit breakers are three-pole molded case circuit breakers designed for reliable protection in various electrical systems. They are commonly used in commercial and industrial applications where three-phase power distribution is required. TEY breakers are known for their robust construction and dependable performance.
These breakers are available in different amperage ratings and voltage ratings to meet specific application needs. They offer thermal-magnetic trip functionality, providing overcurrent and short-circuit protection. According to available information, specific TEY models, such as the TEY380 and TEY3100, have a 14kA interrupting capacity at 480/277V. Consult the GE catalog for detailed specifications.
Key Features and Technologies
GE circuit breakers incorporate several key features and technologies. These include quick-make/quick-break mechanisms for faster response times, common trip bars to ensure simultaneous tripping, and trip indication for easy identification.
Quick-Make/Quick-Break Mechanisms
GE circuit breakers utilize quick-make/quick-break mechanisms to enhance their operational speed and safety. These mechanisms ensure that the circuit breaker contacts close rapidly during a manual operation, and open very rapidly during fault conditions. This rapid action minimizes arcing and reduces the energy let-through during a fault, thereby decreasing potential damage to the protected equipment and the circuit breaker itself. The quick-break function is particularly crucial for interrupting high fault currents effectively. This technology contributes significantly to the overall reliability and performance of GE circuit breakers, providing enhanced protection for electrical systems.
Common Trip Bars
GE circuit breakers incorporate common trip bars, which are essential components for multi-pole breakers. These trip bars ensure that all poles of the circuit breaker trip simultaneously when an overcurrent or fault condition is detected in any one pole. This is crucial for preventing single-phasing in three-phase systems, which can lead to severe motor damage and other equipment failures. The common trip bar mechanically links all the poles together, guaranteeing coordinated tripping and enhancing the overall safety and reliability of the electrical system. This feature is standard in GE’s multi-pole breakers.
Trip Indication
GE circuit breakers feature clear trip indication mechanisms, allowing for quick and easy identification of tripped breakers within a panel. This trip indication typically involves a visual signal, such as a colored indicator or a distinct handle position, that clearly distinguishes a tripped breaker from those in the normal “on” position. This feature significantly reduces troubleshooting time, especially in large electrical panels where multiple breakers are present. The trip indication provides immediate feedback to maintenance personnel, enabling them to quickly restore power and address the underlying fault condition, minimizing downtime and improving overall system reliability.
How to Identify and Order GE Circuit Breakers
Identifying and ordering GE circuit breakers involves understanding catalog numbers and specifying accessories. The catalog provides detailed guides for correctly identifying the required breaker type and options.
Understanding Catalog Numbers
GE circuit breaker catalog numbers are alphanumeric codes that provide crucial details about the breaker’s specifications. These numbers encode information such as the breaker’s series (e.g., Q-Line, TEY), the number of poles, the amperage rating, and the interrupting capacity. Understanding these codes is essential for selecting the correct breaker for a specific application. For example, “THQB1115” indicates a THQB series breaker, with 1 pole and a 15-ampere rating. The catalog includes detailed breakdowns of these catalog numbers, explaining each segment and its corresponding meaning. This allows users to accurately identify and order the appropriate GE circuit breakers based on their specific needs and requirements.
Specifying Accessories
Beyond the core circuit breakers, GE offers a wide array of accessories to enhance functionality and customization. The catalog outlines available accessories, including auxiliary switches, shunt trips, undervoltage releases, and terminal lugs. These accessories allow for tailored solutions to meet specific application demands. When specifying accessories, it’s crucial to refer to the catalog for compatible part numbers and installation guidelines. For example, field-mounted internal and external accessories are listed with their respective catalog numbers. Detailed illustrations and descriptions aid in selecting the correct accessories for seamless integration with the chosen GE circuit breaker. Proper accessory specification ensures optimal performance and safety of the electrical system;
Applications and Suitability
GE circuit breakers are designed for diverse applications, ranging from residential to commercial and industrial settings. The catalog provides guidance on selecting the appropriate breaker for specific needs.
Residential Applications
GE’s Q-Line circuit breakers are commonly used in residential settings. They protect against overloads and short circuits, ensuring electrical safety in homes. These breakers are compatible with GE’s PowerMark Gold and Plus load centers. The catalog offers guidance on selecting the correct Q-Line breaker for various residential circuits, including lighting, appliances, and outlets. It also includes information on arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for enhanced protection. Furthermore, the catalog provides details on main breaker configurations and load center accessories suitable for residential applications. Proper selection ensures safety and code compliance.
Commercial Applications
GE’s Spectra RMS and TEY circuit breakers are well-suited for commercial applications, providing robust protection for electrical systems in buildings and facilities. The catalog offers detailed specifications for breakers ranging from 15 to 600 amps, accommodating diverse commercial power requirements. It includes information on frame sizes, trip units, and accessories, enabling precise customization. For larger commercial installations, GE provides insulated case circuit breakers and power break options. The catalog highlights features like quick-make/quick-break mechanisms and trip indication for enhanced safety and reliability. Furthermore, it details the use of HACR type breakers and relevant environmental considerations for commercial settings.
Important Considerations
When selecting GE circuit breakers, consider environmental limitations. Also, ensure you choose HACR type breakers where required. Consult the catalog for detailed specifications and application guidelines.
Environmental Limitations
GE circuit breakers are designed for specific environmental conditions. The catalog emphasizes that these breakers are unsuitable for installation in potentially explosive or corrosive environments. Exposure to explosive chemicals, corrosive gases, or excessive dust can compromise their performance and safety. Selecting the appropriate breaker for the intended environment is crucial. Consider temperature, humidity, and potential contaminants. Refer to the catalog’s environmental specifications to ensure compatibility. Using the wrong breaker could lead to premature failure, posing safety risks. Proper selection guarantees reliable operation and extends the lifespan of the circuit breaker. Always prioritize safety by adhering to environmental guidelines.
HACR Type Breakers
HACR type circuit breakers are specifically designed for use in systems with Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration equipment. The GE circuit breaker catalog clearly indicates which breakers are UL listed as HACR type, ensuring compatibility with these demanding applications. HACR breakers are crucial for preventing nuisance tripping caused by motor starting currents in HVACR systems. These breakers are tested and certified to handle the higher inrush currents associated with motor loads. Using non-HACR breakers in HVACR circuits can lead to frequent and unwanted interruptions. Consult the catalog to identify the correct HACR breaker for your specific application. Always prioritize safety and system reliability by using approved components.