
The Live CA320C Triple Pole MCB is a robust and reliable miniature circuit breaker engineered to protect medium-capacity industrial and commercial electrical systems. Rated at 20 Amps with a C-Curve tripping characteristic, this 3-pole breaker is designed for AC networks operating at 50/60Hz with voltages up to 400V. It delivers exceptional protection against overloads and short circuits, specifically tailored for circuits powering inductive loads that generate significant inrush currents. With a dependable 6kA breaking capacity and precision-engineered thermo-magnetic release, the CA320C ensures operational continuity and equipment safety in workshops, small manufacturing units, and commercial complexes.
Industrial C-Curve Characteristic: Trips instantaneously at 5-10 times the rated current (100A to 200A), perfectly calibrated to handle the start-up surges of medium-sized inductive loads without nuisance tripping.
Optimized for Medium Inductive Loads: Specifically designed for 3-phase motors (up to 10HP), medium-sized pumps, compressors, conveyors, and heavy-duty industrial lighting with ballasts.
High Fault Current Interruption: Certified 6kA breaking capacity ensures safe and reliable disconnection under severe short-circuit conditions, protecting valuable downstream equipment and wiring.
Precision Thermo-Magnetic Mechanism: Features a bimetallic strip for accurate time-delayed overload protection and a solenoid coil for instantaneous short-circuit response.
Enhanced Power Handling: 20A rating per pole makes it suitable for medium-capacity industrial machinery and commercial HVAC equipment.
Superior Dielectric Strength: Withstands impulse voltages up to 4000V and test voltages of 2kV, ensuring safety during voltage spikes and lightning surges.
Durable Construction: Rated for 8,000 electrical operations, providing long-term reliability in frequently switched industrial environments.
Easy Installation: Compact DIN-rail design with IP20 finger-safe terminals and 16mm² wiring capacity for quick and secure panel integration.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Live |
| Model | CA320C |
| Product Type | Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) |
| Pole Configuration | 3 Pole (3P) |
| Rated Current (In) | 20 Amps |
| Tripping Curve | Type C (5-10 x In) |
| Rated Voltage (Ue) | 230/400V AC |
| Rated Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Ultimate Breaking Capacity | 6kA (6000A) |
| Insulation Voltage (Ui) | 500V |
| Rated Impulse Voltage (Uimp) | 4000V (1.2/50µs) |
| Dielectric Test Voltage | 2kV for 1 minute |
| Release Type | Thermo-magnetic |
| Operating Temperature | -5°C to +40°C (Daily avg ≤35°C) |
| Calibration Temperature | 30°C |
| Storage Temperature | -25°C to +70°C |
| Electrical Endurance | 8,000 cycles |
| Protection Class | IP20 (Finger-safe) |
| Terminal Capacity | 16 mm² (Max) |
| Mounting Style | DIN Rail (35mm) |
| Standards Compliance | IEC 60898-1 |
1. What types of loads are best protected by the Live CA320C 20A C-Curve MCB?
The CA320C is specifically designed for medium-sized inductive loads. Ideal applications include:
3-phase induction motors (up to 10HP / 7.5kW depending on starting current)
Medium-sized water pumps and borewell pumps
Air compressors and refrigeration compressors
Industrial exhaust fans and blowers
Conveyor systems and small machine tools
HVAC equipment and commercial refrigeration units
2. What is the maximum motor power (HP/kW) this 20A 3P MCB can support?
For a 3-phase 400V motor with a typical power factor, a 20A C-Curve MCB can generally support motors up to 10HP (7.5kW) . However, this depends on the motor's starting current characteristics (Locked Rotor Current) and efficiency. Always consult motor nameplate data and local electrical codes for proper sizing. For motors with high starting currents, consider using a higher rating or a D-Curve breaker.
3. Why is the C-Curve preferred over a B-Curve for compressor protection?
Compressors, like those in refrigeration and air conditioning, have high starting torque requirements and draw significant inrush current during startup. A B-Curve breaker (trips at 3-5x In) would interpret this startup surge as a fault and trip unnecessarily. The C-Curve (5-10x In) provides a wider magnetic trip tolerance, allowing the compressor to start normally while still providing full protection against actual short circuits and sustained overloads.
4. Can I use this 20A 3P MCB for a 3-phase welding machine?
Yes, the CA320C is suitable for protecting the input supply to medium-sized 3-phase welding machines. Welding machines can have variable current draws and occasional surges; the C-Curve characteristic accommodates these fluctuations without nuisance tripping. Ensure the welding machine's continuous input current does not exceed 20A per phase.
5. How do I calculate the continuous load limit for this 20A MCB?
As per standard electrical safety practices (NEC and IEC recommendations), continuous loads should not exceed 80% of the breaker's rated current. For the CA320C 20A MCB:
Maximum continuous load = 20A × 0.8 = 16A
This means the circuit should ideally draw no more than 16A continuously to prevent overheating and ensure long breaker life. Short-term overloads up to 20A are acceptable but should not be sustained.