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Can primary breakers be exchanged in Mini-Power Zone Transformers for lower ratings? Why are the primary breakers so high in amperage rating?
Issue:
Primary circuit breaker amperage selection in Mini Power Zone Transformers
Product Line:
LV Transformers
Environment:
Applies to Mini Power Zone (MPZ) products from SquareD/Schneider Electric
Cause:
SquareD/Schneider Electric uses NEC 450-3b as a guideline for primary circuit breaker selection
Resolution:
The amperage ratings of Mini-Power Zone Transformer primary breakers were chosen with the goal of no nuisance tripping during the inrush of primary current associated with Transformer energization. Because of the relatively high inrush associated with smaller size resin filled Transformer products, breaker sizes were adjusted higher than the usual 125% of full load level associated with larger Transformers. The National Electrical Code breaker sizing rules allow up to 250% of Transformer full load if a secondary main is sized at 125% of secondary full load. Feeder panels ahead of the Mini-Power Zone Transformer must be sized at least as large as the primary breaker to avoid nuisance tripping as well. Replacement of factory supplied primary breakers with lower amperage rated breakers should be done with the understanding that nuisance tripping on inrush will sometimes occur on energization, during voltage sags, or during momentary primary power interruptions.