The General Electric (GE) Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF serves as a comprehensive guide for selecting and understanding GE circuit breakers, offering detailed product information, technical specifications, and application guidance.
Importance of Circuit Breakers in Electrical Systems
Circuit breakers are essential for protecting electrical systems from damage caused by overcurrent, short circuits, and ground faults. They ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency in power distribution.
Overview of General Electric (GE) Circuit Breakers
General Electric (GE) circuit breakers are renowned for their reliability, safety, and versatility in protecting electrical systems. With a wide range of options, including Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs), Low Voltage, Medium Voltage, and High Voltage breakers, GE offers solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. These breakers are designed to provide superior protection against overcurrent, short circuits, and ground faults, ensuring system reliability and safety. GE circuit breakers are certified by recognized standards such as UL and CSA, meeting stringent safety and performance requirements. They feature advanced technologies like thermal magnetic trip units, arc fault protection, and adjustable settings, making them a top choice for electrical professionals. Whether for new installations or replacements, GE circuit breakers are trusted for their durability and compatibility with various electrical systems.
Purpose of the GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF
The GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF is designed to provide electrical professionals with detailed information to select, install, and maintain GE circuit breakers. It serves as a one-stop resource, offering comprehensive data on product specifications, certifications, and compatibility. The catalog helps users navigate through various circuit breaker types, including Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs) and low to high voltage options. It also includes technical ratings, installation guidelines, and compliance details, ensuring safe and efficient system operation. By organizing products into clear categories, the catalog simplifies the process of identifying the right breaker for specific applications. Whether for residential, commercial, or industrial use, the GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF empowers users to make informed decisions, ensuring reliability and safety in electrical systems.
Understanding GE Circuit Breaker Types
GE offers a diverse range of circuit breakers, including Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs) and low, medium, and high voltage options, each designed for specific electrical system requirements and applications.
Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs)
Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs) are essential components in electrical systems, designed to provide reliable protection against overloads and short circuits. GE’s MCCBs are known for their robust design, featuring a molded plastic case that encapsulates the entire mechanism, ensuring durability and safety. They are widely used in industrial and commercial applications due to their high performance and versatility. MCCBs offer adjustable settings, allowing for customization to meet specific system requirements. They also incorporate advanced trip units, such as thermal-magnetic technology, to ensure precise and rapid response to electrical faults. With their compact size and easy installation, MCCBs are a preferred choice for protecting electrical circuits in demanding environments. GE’s MCCBs are UL and CSA certified, ensuring compliance with industry standards. The catalog provides detailed specifications, making it easier to select the right MCCB for various applications.
Low Voltage Circuit Breakers
Low Voltage Circuit Breakers (LVCBs) are designed for applications where the voltage remains below a certain threshold, typically up to 1,000 volts. These breakers are ideal for residential, commercial, and light industrial settings, offering reliable protection against overloads and short circuits. GE’s low voltage circuit breakers are known for their compact design, ease of installation, and user-friendly operation. They feature thermal-magnetic trip units, which provide precise detection of electrical faults. LVCBs are also equipped with arc fault protection, enhancing safety in various environments. Their adjustable settings allow for flexibility in different electrical systems. The GE catalog provides detailed specifications for low voltage circuit breakers, including ratings, dimensions, and compatibility with other electrical components. This makes it easier to select the right breaker for specific applications, ensuring efficient and safe operation.
Medium Voltage Circuit Breakers
Medium Voltage Circuit Breakers (MVCBs) are designed for applications requiring voltages between 1,000 and 38,000 volts. These breakers are essential for industrial and commercial power distribution systems, ensuring reliable protection against overloads and short circuits. GE’s medium voltage circuit breakers utilize advanced technologies like SF6 gas for insulation and arc quenching, ensuring high performance and durability. They are ideal for controlling and protecting electrical equipment in demanding environments, such as industrial machinery and substations. The breakers feature robust construction, modular designs, and high interrupting capacities, making them suitable for harsh conditions. The GE catalog provides detailed specifications, including voltage ratings, current capacities, and dimensional data, helping users select the appropriate breaker for their medium voltage applications. These breakers also adhere to international safety and performance standards, ensuring compliance and reliability in diverse electrical systems.
High Voltage Circuit Breakers
High Voltage Circuit Breakers (HVCBs) are designed for electrical systems operating at voltages exceeding 38,000 volts, typically used in power transmission and distribution networks. These breakers are critical for protecting high-voltage equipment, such as transformers and transmission lines, from faults like short circuits and overloads. GE’s high voltage circuit breakers employ advanced technologies, including SF6 gas and vacuum interrupters, to ensure reliable arc quenching and minimal downtime. They are built to withstand harsh environmental conditions and provide long-term durability. The catalog details their voltage ratings, interrupting capacities, and installation requirements, making it easier for engineers to select the right breaker for their high-voltage applications. HVCBs are essential for maintaining grid stability and ensuring uninterrupted power supply in industrial and utility settings. Their performance and reliability make them a cornerstone of modern electrical infrastructure.
Key Features of GE Circuit Breakers
GE circuit breakers offer advanced thermal magnetic trip units, arc fault protection, and ground fault protection, ensuring superior safety and reliability in electrical systems. They also feature adjustable settings for flexibility and precise control, making them suitable for diverse applications.
Thermal Magnetic Trip Units
Thermal magnetic trip units are a critical feature of GE circuit breakers, offering dual protection against overloads and short circuits. These units combine a thermal element, which detects excessive heat caused by overloads, and a magnetic element, which responds to high-current surges. This combination ensures reliable protection for electrical systems. The thermal element provides gradual tripping during prolonged overloads, while the magnetic element delivers instantaneous tripping for severe short circuits. GE’s advanced designs ensure precise and consistent performance, minimizing downtime and enhancing safety. These trip units are integral to GE circuit breakers, offering a robust solution for various applications, from residential to industrial settings. Their reliability and efficiency make them a cornerstone of GE’s circuit breaker technology.
Arc Fault Protection
Arc fault protection is a vital safety feature in GE circuit breakers, designed to detect and interrupt dangerous arcing faults. Arcing occurs when electrical current escapes the intended path, creating intense heat and sparks, which can ignite fires. GE’s advanced arc fault protection technology quickly identifies these hazardous conditions and trips the circuit breaker to prevent potential damage or hazards. This feature is especially critical in residential and commercial settings where arcing faults can lead to electrical fires. GE circuit breakers equipped with arc fault protection meet stringent safety standards, ensuring reliable performance. By incorporating this technology, GE enhances electrical system safety, protecting people and property from arcing-related risks. This innovative solution underscores GE’s commitment to advancing electrical safety and reliability in modern systems.
Ground Fault Protection
Ground fault protection is a critical safety feature in GE circuit breakers, designed to detect and interrupt ground faults, which occur when there is an unintended path of electricity to the ground. These faults can cause severe electrical hazards, including shocks and fires. GE circuit breakers equipped with ground fault protection utilize advanced sensors to quickly identify such conditions and trip the breaker, ensuring safety and minimizing risks. This feature is particularly essential in residential, commercial, and industrial settings where ground faults can pose significant dangers. GE’s ground fault protection systems are engineered to meet rigorous safety standards, such as those set by UL and CSA, ensuring reliable and consistent performance. By integrating this technology, GE circuit breakers provide an additional layer of protection, safeguarding people and equipment from ground fault-related incidents.
Adjustable Settings and Flexibility
GE circuit breakers are renowned for their adjustable settings and flexibility, allowing users to customize protection levels according to specific electrical system requirements. This feature is particularly beneficial in industrial and commercial applications where varying loads and conditions demand adaptable solutions. Many GE circuit breakers offer adjustable trip settings, enabling precise control over current and voltage thresholds. This flexibility ensures optimal protection without unnecessary interruptions, enhancing system reliability and efficiency. Additionally, GE circuit breakers often include modular designs, permitting easy upgrades or modifications to meet changing electrical demands. The adjustable settings and flexible configurations of GE circuit breakers make them versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, providing users with tailored solutions to ensure safety, performance, and compatibility.
How to Read the GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF
Start by reviewing the table of contents to locate specific products or sections. Familiarize yourself with product codes, technical specifications, and installation guidelines for proper selection and application.
Navigating the Catalog Structure
Navigating the GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF is straightforward once you understand its organization. The catalog is divided into clear sections, starting with a table of contents that guides users to specific product categories. Each section is labeled with headings and subheadings, making it easy to locate information quickly. Product listings are grouped by type, such as molded case, low voltage, and medium voltage circuit breakers. Technical specifications, ratings, and installation guidelines are provided for each product, ensuring users can make informed decisions. The catalog also includes indexes and cross-references to help users find related products or accessories. By following the logical flow of the document, users can efficiently identify the right circuit breaker for their needs and access detailed information without confusion. This structured approach ensures a seamless experience for both novice and experienced users.
Understanding Part Numbers and Codes
Understanding part numbers and codes is essential for selecting the right GE circuit breaker. Each product in the catalog is assigned a unique part number, which encodes key specifications like voltage, current rating, and features. These codes are structured to help users quickly identify compatibility and requirements. For example, a part number might start with a prefix indicating the product family, followed by numbers denoting ratings, and suffixes for special features. The catalog provides a decoding guide to help interpret these codes. Users can find these details in the product listings or a dedicated section for part number breakdowns. By understanding these codes, users can efficiently match circuit breakers to their specific electrical systems. This system ensures accuracy and simplifies the selection process, making it easier to find the right product for any application.
Interpreting Technical Specifications
Interpreting technical specifications in the GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF is crucial for ensuring proper selection and installation. The catalog provides detailed ratings, including voltage, current, and interrupting capacity, which are essential for matching circuit breakers to specific electrical systems. Key specifications such as breaking capacity, operating voltage, and response time are clearly outlined. Users can also find information on thermal limits, short-circuit ratings, and coordination with other electrical components. The catalog includes explanations and examples to help users understand complex terms and apply them correctly. By carefully reviewing these specifications, users can ensure compliance with safety standards and optimal performance. This section is designed to empower users with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions for their electrical systems, whether residential, commercial, or industrial.
Identifying Compatible Products
Identifying compatible products in the GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF is essential for ensuring seamless integration with existing electrical systems. The catalog provides detailed compatibility information, including cross-reference guides and product comparison charts. Users can match circuit breakers with specific GE panels, enclosures, and accessories by referencing part numbers and product codes. The catalog also highlights compatible components such as shunt trips, auxiliary contacts, and undervoltage releases. By leveraging this information, users can avoid installation issues and ensure proper system functionality. Additionally, GE offers online tools and resources to further assist in identifying compatible products; This section empowers users to make informed decisions, ensuring their electrical systems operate safely and efficiently. Compatibility charts and diagrams are also included to simplify the process of selecting the right products for specific applications.
GE Circuit Breaker Catalog Sections
The GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF is organized into clear sections, including product listings, technical data, installation guidelines, and application-specific sections. Each section is designed to help users quickly find and select the appropriate circuit breakers for their needs, ensuring compatibility and compliance with industry standards.
Table of Contents and Index
The GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF begins with a detailed table of contents, providing easy navigation through its extensive product offerings. This section is complemented by a comprehensive index, which allows users to quickly locate specific circuit breakers or related components. The table of contents is organized by product type, such as molded case circuit breakers, low-voltage, medium-voltage, and high-voltage breakers, ensuring a logical flow. The index is alphabetically sorted, enabling rapid searches for part numbers, features, or technical terms. Together, these tools simplify the process of finding the right circuit breaker for any application, whether residential, commercial, or industrial. The clear structure and cross-referencing system make the catalog user-friendly, even for those unfamiliar with GE’s product lineup.
Product Listings and Descriptions
The GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF includes detailed product listings and descriptions to help users identify the right circuit breaker for their needs. Each listing provides essential information, such as part numbers, product names, and voltage/current ratings. Descriptions highlight key features, including trip characteristics, interrupting capacities, and compliance with safety standards. Product images and dimensional drawings are often included to provide a clear understanding of the physical attributes. This section also outlines compatible accessories, such as auxiliary contacts or shunt trips, and offers application-specific notes. By organizing products into logical categories, the catalog ensures users can quickly find the most suitable circuit breaker for residential, commercial, or industrial applications. The clarity and depth of these listings make the catalog an invaluable resource for electrical professionals and specifiers alike.
Technical Data and Ratings
The GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF provides comprehensive technical data and ratings for each circuit breaker model. This section includes detailed specifications such as voltage ratings, current ratings, and interrupting capacities. It also outlines the breaker’s operational parameters, including ambient temperature ranges and maximum duty cycles. Critical performance metrics, such as short-circuit withstand ratings and arc fault capabilities, are clearly presented. The data is organized into easy-to-read tables, enabling quick comparison between models. Additionally, the catalog highlights compliance with industry standards like UL and IEC, ensuring reliability and safety. This section is essential for engineers and electricians to determine the suitability of a circuit breaker for specific applications, ensuring safe and efficient system design. The technical data and ratings section underscores GE’s commitment to providing precise and actionable information for professionals.
Installation and Wiring Guidelines
The GE Circuit Breaker Catalog PDF includes detailed installation and wiring guidelines to ensure safe and proper deployment of circuit breakers. This section provides step-by-step instructions for mounting circuit breakers, connecting wires, and securing terminals. It emphasizes the importance of proper torque specifications for terminal screws to prevent loose connections. Additionally, the catalog outlines environmental considerations, such as avoiding extreme temperatures or humidity. Wiring diagrams are included to clarify connections for various configurations. The guidelines also cover ground fault protection requirements and the need for proper insulation. By adhering to these instructions, installers can ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards. The section is designed to help electricians and technicians avoid common installation errors, ensuring reliable operation and longevity of the circuit breakers.
Applications of GE Circuit Breakers
GE circuit breakers are designed for various applications, including residential, commercial, and industrial systems, as well as hazardous locations, ensuring versatile and reliable electrical protection across different environments.
Residential Electrical Systems
GE circuit breakers play a crucial role in residential electrical systems by providing reliable protection against overcurrent and short-circuit conditions. They are designed to ensure safety and efficiency in home wiring, safeguarding appliances and electrical devices from damage. For residential use, GE offers a range of circuit breakers, including ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs), which are essential for complying with safety codes in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. These breakers are also compact and easy to install, making them ideal for residential panels. The GE catalog provides detailed specifications and installation guidelines, helping homeowners and electricians select the right circuit breaker for their specific needs. This ensures optimal performance and protection in residential settings, where safety and reliability are paramount.
Commercial and Industrial Applications
GE circuit breakers are widely utilized in commercial and industrial applications, where reliable electrical protection is critical. These environments often require high-performance circuit breakers to handle large currents and complex electrical systems. GE offers a range of circuit breakers designed for commercial and industrial use, including medium and high voltage options, which ensure optimal performance in demanding settings. Features such as adjustable trip settings and advanced protection mechanisms make GE circuit breakers ideal for safeguarding industrial equipment and preventing downtime. Additionally, GE circuit breakers are built to meet rigorous safety and efficiency standards, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications. The catalog provides detailed specifications and application guidelines, enabling engineers and technicians to select the right circuit breakers for their specific industrial needs, ensuring seamless operation and enhanced system reliability.
Hazardous Location Requirements
GE circuit breakers are designed to meet the unique demands of hazardous locations, where the risk of explosion or fire is elevated. These environments, often found in industries like oil and gas, chemical plants, and mining, require specialized electrical protection. GE offers circuit breakers that are UL- and CSA-certified for use in Class I, II, and III hazardous locations. These breakers are built to withstand explosive atmospheres and prevent ignition of flammable substances. The catalog provides detailed information on explosion-proof ratings, certifications, and compliance with international standards for hazardous locations. Engineers can rely on GE circuit breakers to ensure safety and reliability in these high-risk environments, with features such as enhanced sealing and rugged construction to prevent arcing and sparking. This ensures optimal performance while maintaining strict safety protocols in hazardous settings.
Safety and Compliance
GE circuit breakers meet stringent safety and compliance standards, ensuring reliability and protection in various electrical systems. They adhere to global certifications, providing customers with trusted solutions for secure operations.
UL and CSA Certifications
GE circuit breakers are rigorously tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), ensuring compliance with North American safety standards. These certifications guarantee that GE products meet strict requirements for performance, safety, and reliability in electrical systems. UL certification verifies that circuit breakers can safely interrupt currents, withstand fault conditions, and operate efficiently under various loads. Similarly, CSA certification ensures compliance with Canadian electrical standards, making GE circuit breakers suitable for both US and Canadian markets. These certifications are critical for ensuring the protection of people, equipment, and property from electrical hazards. By adhering to these standards, GE circuit breakers provide customers with trusted solutions for safe and reliable electrical system operation. The catalog PDF highlights these certifications, offering assurance of quality and compliance.
Compliance with International Standards
GE circuit breakers are designed to meet international standards, ensuring their suitability for global markets. The catalog highlights compliance with standards from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), such as IEC 60947-2 and IEC 60947-4, which cover low-voltage switchgear and controlgear. These standards ensure GE circuit breakers meet requirements for rated currents, short-circuit capacities, and operational reliability. Additionally, GE products comply with European standards like EN 60947-2 and EN 60947-4, making them compatible with European market demands. Compliance with these standards ensures GE circuit breakers can be used in diverse regions, including Asia-Pacific countries that adopt IEC standards. This global compliance simplifies installation and ensures safety and performance across international borders. The catalog provides detailed information on certifications, enabling customers to verify compliance with specific regional requirements. This ensures GE circuit breakers are trusted worldwide for their quality and reliability.