GV2-ME20C from Schneider Electric thermomagnetic circuit breaker

The GV2-ME20C from Schneider Electric is a thermomagnetic circuit breaker specifically designed for motor protection. It is suitable for AC circuits with a frequency of 50/60Hz and a voltage up to 690V, providing short-circuit protection, overload protection, phase-failure protection, and direct control functions.

 I. Basic Parameters and Functions

1. Rated Current

Setting Current Range: 13-18A, suitable for three-phase motors with a power of approximately 9kW.

Magnetic Tripping Current: 223A (about 12.4 times the rated current), enabling rapid response to short-circuit faults.

2. Tripping Characteristics

Thermomagnetic Trip Unit: Combines long-time delay protection against overload (via thermal element) and instantaneous protection against short-circuit (via electromagnetic element).

Tripping Class: Complies with IEC Standard Class 10A, ensuring the overload current is cut off within 10 seconds.

3. Structure and Protection

3-Pole (3P) Design: With a width of only 45mm, it saves installation space.

Protection Rating: IP20 (for the main unit) and IP55 (when equipped with a waterproof box), supporting dustproof and waterproof environments.

4. Certifications and Compliance

- Certified by CE and CCC, meeting international and Chinese electrical safety standards.

 II. Core Functions and Application Scenarios

1. Comprehensive Protection Capabilities

Short-Circuit Protection: Boasts an interrupting capacity of up to 15kA, which can quickly cut off short-circuit current to prevent equipment damage.

Overload Protection: Built-in thermal relay triggers tripping through the deformation of bimetallic strips, responding to motor overheating.

Phase-Failure Protection: Automatically detects three-phase current imbalance to prevent motor burnout due to phase failure.

2. Control and Expansion

Manual Operation: Button-type control, supporting local start/stop and locking functions.

Remote Control: Can be equipped with an Under-Voltage Release (UVR) or Shunt Trip Release (SHR) to realize remote tripping.

Accessory Expansion: Supports auxiliary contacts (e.g., GVAE11, GVAN11) and adapters (e.g., GV2-AF3), which can be combined with contactors to form a complete starter system.

3. Typical Applications

Industrial Field: Direct starting and protection of motors for pumps, fans, compressors, etc.

Commercial Scenarios: Equipment with high reliability requirements, such as food processing machinery and packaging machinery.

 III. Technical Details and Installation

1. Environmental Adaptability

Operating Temperature: -20℃ to +60℃, with a built-in temperature compensation function to ensure stability in different environments.

Storage Temperature: -40℃ to +80℃, adapting to extreme transportation and storage conditions.

2. Installation Method

DIN Rail Mounting: Compatible with TH35-7.5mm rails, supporting vertical or horizontal fixing.

Wiring Method: Screw-in terminals, suitable for wires with a cross-sectional area of 2.5mm² or less, with a tightening torque of 1.7N·m.

3. Service Life and Maintenance

Mechanical Life: 100,000 operations; Electrical Life: 100,000 operations (under AC-3 duty cycle), significantly higher than that of ordinary circuit breakers.

Modular Design: Facilitates maintenance and replacement of components.

 IV. Price and Procurement

1. Market Price

Retail Price per Unit: Approximately 126-180 RMB (data as of 2025). Discounts are available for bulk purchases.

2. Alternative Models

- For higher current requirements, GV2-ME21C (17-23A) or GV3-ME20 (10-16A) can be selected.

- For intelligent requirements, an upgrade to models with electronic trip units in Schneider's TeSys series can be considered.

 V. Selection and Precautions

1. Current Matching

- Select the setting range based on the rated current of the motor, and it is recommended to reserve a 10%-20% margin to cope with load fluctuations.

2. Tripping Curve

- The thermomagnetic tripping curve (magnetic tripping at 12.4×In) is suitable for the inrush current characteristics of motors, avoiding frequent false tripping.

3. Installation Environment

- Ensure the installation location has good ventilation, and avoid high-temperature or humid environments that may affect the accuracy of thermal protection.

 VI. Certification and Compliance Inquiry

- The compliance of the product can be verified by accessing the "Product Certificate Inquiry" function on Schneider Electric's official website and entering the model or CCC certificate number (e.g., 2003010304032561).

For further technical support or customized solutions, it is recommended to contact the local service center of Schneider Electric or visit its official website for detailed information.