Core Features
3-Phase Overcurrent & Short-Circuit Protection: Functions as a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) designed to safeguard medium-power 3-phase industrial circuits (e.g., motor feeders, process machinery, or power distribution branches) from overload, overcurrent, and short-circuit hazards. It combines manual power switching with automatic fault tripping—disconnecting power within milliseconds if current exceeds safe limits, preventing equipment damage, electrical fires, or operator shock.
High Current Capacity & Protection Precision: Rated for AC 415V (50/60Hz) with a rated current (Iₙ) of 250A and a short-circuit breaking capacity (Icu) of 50kA (at 415V AC)—suitable for powering and protecting heavy-duty 3-phase loads (e.g., 125kW motors, 150kW industrial heater banks, or multi-machine production lines). It features adjustable thermal overload protection (to match specific load current requirements) and fixed magnetic short-circuit protection (for rapid response to high-current faults), ensuring tailored, reliable safety for diverse industrial applications.
Robust Molded Case Construction: Housed in a flame-retardant thermoset plastic case (UL94 V-0 rated) that provides electrical insulation, mechanical impact resistance, and resistance to oils, chemicals, and high temperatures. Internal components include:
Bimetallic thermal elements: Detect slow-burning overloads (e.g., motor jams) and trip the breaker gradually to avoid unnecessary shutdowns.
Magnetic coils: Respond instantly to short-circuits (e.g., wire insulation failure) by tripping the breaker in <100ms.
Silver-alloy contacts: Minimize electrical resistance, reduce arcing during switching, and ensure long-term durability (≥10,000 mechanical operations).
Safety & Operational Enhancements:
Manual Toggle & Lockout: A large, ergonomic toggle handle enables easy “On/Off” switching and provides visual confirmation of circuit status (e.g., “On” = handle up, “Off” = handle down, “Tripped” = handle mid-position). A built-in lockout hole accepts a padlock (compliant with OSHA 1910.147 LOTO standards) to secure the breaker in the “Off” position during maintenance.
Trip Indication: A clear visual marker on the handle distinguishes between “manually turned off” and “fault-tripped” states, simplifying troubleshooting and reducing downtime.
3-Phase Synchronized Tripping: Ensures all three phases (L1/L2/L3) disconnect simultaneously during a fault, eliminating phase imbalance or partial energization that could damage sensitive 3-phase equipment (e.g., variable frequency drives, transformers).
3-Phase System Compatibility: Optimized for integration into 3-phase AC power systems (common in manufacturing plants, data centers, and critical infrastructure). It fits standard low-voltage switchgear, motor control centers (MCCs), and power distribution panels, supporting both incoming power feeders and outgoing load circuits.
Global Compliance & Interoperability: Meets international safety and performance standards including IEC 60898-1, UL 489, and CSA C22.2 No. 5, ensuring compliance with global electrical codes (e.g., NEC in North America, IEC 60364 in Europe). It is fully compatible with Siemens SIVACON® low-voltage switchgear and third-party enclosures, enabling seamless retrofitting or new installations.
Typical Applications
The Siemens Switch 3LD2250-0TK13 is engineered for medium-power 3-phase circuit protection in industrial and commercial settings, with core use cases including:
Heavy-Duty Motor Protection: Installed in motor control centers (MCCs) to protect large 3-phase motors (e.g., 125kW water pumps, 100kW compressors, or 90kW conveyor drives) in manufacturing, mining, or water treatment plants. The adjustable thermal setting matches the motor’s full-load current, preventing tripping from normal inrush currents while protecting against overloads.
Production Line Power Distribution: Used as a main branch breaker in 3-phase power distribution panels for multi-machine production lines (e.g., automotive assembly, electronics manufacturing). It protects downstream circuits (e.g., robotic arms, welding equipment, or packaging machines) from faults, ensuring the entire line does not shut down due to a single-component issue.
Industrial Heater Bank Protection: Safeguards large 3-phase industrial heater systems (e.g., 150kW process heaters for plastic molding, 120kW drying ovens for food processing) from overcurrent caused by heater element failure or thermostat malfunctions. The high short-circuit breaking capacity ensures safety during severe faults (e.g., heater wire shorting to ground).
Data Center Backup Power: Integrated into data center UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems or backup generator feeders to protect 3-phase critical loads (e.g., server racks, cooling systems). It ensures reliable power switching between grid and backup sources while protecting against electrical faults.
Critical Infrastructure Protection: Deployed in water treatment plants, oil refineries, or healthcare facilities to protect 3-phase critical equipment (e.g., pumps, turbines, or medical imaging systems). The robust construction and high breaking capacity ensure uninterrupted operation even in harsh or high-demand environments.