ABB S202-B4 Double Pole Miniature Breaker 4A B Curve
The ABB S202-B4 Double Pole Miniature Breaker 4A B Curve is a vital component for protecting electrical installations from overloads and short circuits. Engineered for reliability and safety, this circuit breaker is designed for a wide range of applications, from residential and commercial settings to industrial environments. Its B-curve tripping characteristic provides fast response to low-level short circuits, making it ideal for safeguarding sensitive control circuits and cables.
Key Advantages:
Fast Protection: The B-curve offers rapid tripping for low fault currents, minimizing damage to wiring and control systems. Compact Design: The S200 series features a space-saving design, easily mounting onto standard 35mm DIN rails. Global Standards Compliance: It meets major international standards, including IEC/EN 60898-1, IEC/EN 60947-2, UL 1077, and CSA approvals, ensuring broad applicability. Durability and Reliability: Constructed with high-quality materials and featuring robust thermal-magnetic trip protection, the S202-B4 ensures long-term operational integrity. Accessory Compatibility: Fully compatible with ABB's System pro M compact® components, allowing for seamless integration with other devices and accessories.
Core Features & Market Positioning:
The ABB S202-B4 is positioned as a reliable and versatile miniature circuit breaker within the S200 series, known for its current-limiting capabilities and thermal-magnetic trip protection. It offers a competitive advantage through its adherence to global standards and extensive approval marks, making it a preferred choice for diverse markets. The B-curve tripping characteristic specifically targets cable protection and control circuit safeguarding, differentiating it from breakers with higher trip thresholds. Its design prioritizes ease of installation and maintenance, featuring user-friendly terminals and clear contact position indication.
Product Specifications:
| Specification | Value | Reference |
| :----------------------------------- | :----------------------------------------------------------------- | :---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Product Type | Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) | |
| Series | S200 | |
| Model Number | S202-B4 | |
| Number of Poles | 2 | |
| Rated Current (In) | 4 A | |
| Tripping Characteristic | B | |
| Rated Operational Voltage (Ue) | 400 V AC (acc. to IEC 60947-2) | |
| Rated Insulation Voltage (Ui) | 440 V (acc. to IEC/EN 60664-1) | |
| Rated Impulse Withstand Voltage | 4 kV | |
| Rated Frequency (f) | 50/60 Hz | |
| Rated Service Short-Circuit | 6 kA (acc. to IEC 60898-1) | |
| Breaking Capacity (Ics) | | |
| Rated Ultimate Short-Circuit | 10 kA (acc. to IEC 60947-2) | |
| Breaking Capacity (Icu) | | |
| Energy Limiting Class | 3 | |
| Electrical Endurance | 20,000 AC cycles | |
| Mechanical Endurance | 20,000 cycles | |
| Mounting Type | DIN Rail (TH35-15 / TH35-7.5) | |
| Terminal Type | Screw Terminals / Cylinder-lift terminal | |
| Connecting Capacity | Rigid: 0.75 - 35 mm²; Flexible: 0.75 - 25 mm² | |
| Tightening Torque | 2.8 N·m | |
| Operating Temperature | -25 °C to +55 °C | |
| IP Rating | IP20 | |
| Housing Material | Halogen-free thermoplastics (RAL 7035) | |
| Approvals | UL, CSA, IEC, CE, VDE, AS/NZS | |
Key Application Scenarios:
The ABB S202-B4 is highly suitable for applications requiring precise overcurrent protection, particularly where rapid response to low fault currents is critical. This includes:
Control Circuits: Protecting sensitive electronic control systems, PLCs, and automation equipment from damage due to small short circuits or overloads. Cable Protection: Its B-curve characteristic is optimized for safeguarding standard wiring and cables within electrical installations. Residential and Small Commercial Buildings: Providing essential safety and protection for lighting circuits, socket outlets, and general power distribution. Industrial Control Panels: Ensuring the reliable operation of machinery and equipment by protecting branch circuits and auxiliary power supplies. Distribution Boards: Serving as a fundamental protective device in main and sub-distribution boards.
Practical System Integration Guidance:
Integrating the ABB S202-B4 into an electrical system is straightforward, leveraging its DIN rail mounting and standard terminal connections.
Mounting: The breaker is designed for quick snap-on mounting to a standard 35mm DIN rail (TH35-15 or TH35-7.5) within control panels or distribution boards. Wiring: Utilize the top terminals for incoming power (line) and the bottom terminals for outgoing power (load). The terminals accommodate a wide range of conductor sizes, from 0.75 mm² to 35 mm² for rigid conductors and 0.75 mm² to 25 mm² for flexible conductors. Busbar Connection: For multi-pole configurations or busbar systems, the dual-function terminals allow for easy connection of conductors and busbars. Accessories: The S200 series is compatible with a wide array of accessories, including auxiliary contacts, signaling units, and remote tripping devices, which can be easily field-mounted.
Operation and Risk Mitigation:
Proper operation and awareness of potential issues are key to maximizing safety and performance.
Operation: The toggle lever indicates the breaker's status: UP for ON (circuit energized) and DOWN for OFF (circuit de-energized). A tripped breaker will move the lever to an intermediate position. Resetting After Tripping: If the breaker trips, it's crucial to first identify and rectify the cause of the overload or short circuit. After clearing the fault, push the lever fully down to the OFF position, then up to the ON position to reset. Repeated tripping without addressing the root cause indicates a persistent issue requiring professional inspection. Troubleshooting: Common issues include frequent tripping due to overloaded circuits or faulty appliances. If the breaker fails to reset, it may indicate a persistent fault or internal damage, requiring a qualified electrician's attention. Loose terminal connections can also lead to overheating and tripping, necessitating periodic checks. Safety: Always ensure the power supply is disconnected and locked out before performing any installation, wiring, or maintenance. Verify connections are tight and secure to prevent overheating.
Scalability & Long-Term Value:
The ABB S202-B4 integrates seamlessly into existing and future electrical infrastructure, offering long-term value through its compatibility and robust design.
System Pro M Compact® Integration: Its full compatibility with ABB's System pro M compact® ecosystem ensures that it can be combined with a vast range of existing components, from other circuit protection devices to control and automation modules. Future-Proofing: As electrical systems evolve, the S202-B4 remains a reliable foundational component. Its adherence to international standards and high-quality construction ensure longevity and performance. IIoT and Digital Solutions: While the S202-B4 itself is a mechanical device, ABB's broader portfolio includes smart connected devices and digital solutions that can monitor and manage circuit protection data, contributing to enhanced system visibility and predictive maintenance within an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) framework.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: What is the primary function of an ABB S202-B4 Miniature Circuit Breaker?
The primary function of the ABB S202-B4 is to protect electrical circuits from damage caused by overcurrents, specifically overloads and short circuits. It acts as an automatic safety device, interrupting the flow of electricity when fault conditions exceed its rated limits, thereby preventing fires and equipment damage.
This circuit breaker utilizes a thermal-magnetic tripping mechanism. The thermal element responds to sustained overloads, while the magnetic element reacts instantaneously to severe short circuits, ensuring rapid protection.
Its B-curve tripping characteristic makes it particularly suitable for cable protection and safeguarding sensitive control circuits that might experience lower fault currents.
Q2: What are the key specifications of the ABB S202-B4 Double Pole Miniature Breaker 4A B Curve?
The ABB S202-B4 is a 2-pole device with a rated current of 4A and a Type B tripping characteristic. It operates at a rated voltage of up to 400V AC and has a breaking capacity of 6kA according to IEC 60898-1, with an ultimate breaking capacity of 10kA according to IEC 60947-2.
It is designed for DIN rail mounting and features IP20 protection. The breaker is compliant with major international standards, including IEC/EN 60898-1 and IEC/EN 60947-2, and carries various agency approvals like UL and CSA.
Connection terminals accommodate rigid conductors from 0.75-35mm² and flexible conductors from 0.75-25mm², with a tightening torque of 2.8 Nm.
Q3: In what types of applications is the ABB S202-B4 typically used?
The S202-B4 is commonly employed in residential, commercial, and light industrial applications. Its B-curve tripping characteristic makes it ideal for protecting cable circuits, lighting, and socket outlets where the risk of high inductive inrush currents is minimal.
It is frequently specified for protecting control circuits in automation systems, ensuring the integrity of sensitive electronic components like PLCs and sensors.
The double-pole design makes it suitable for applications requiring the interruption of both the phase and neutral conductors simultaneously, enhancing safety.
Q4: What does the 'B Curve' designation mean for the ABB S202-B4?
The 'B Curve' on the ABB S202-B4 refers to its tripping characteristic. This means it will trip instantaneously (electromagnetically) when the fault current is between 3 to 5 times its rated current (4A).
This characteristic provides rapid protection against short circuits, minimizing damage to wiring and sensitive equipment. It's considered a fast-acting curve suitable for resistive loads and protection of long, small-gauge cable runs.
Compared to C or D curve breakers, the B curve offers quicker tripping for lower fault currents, making it optimal for applications where precise protection of control wiring is paramount.
Q5: How is the ABB S202-B4 installed and wired?
Installation involves snapping the breaker onto a standard 35mm DIN rail. Power to the circuit must be completely disconnected and locked out before wiring.
The incoming phase and neutral wires connect to the upper terminals, and the outgoing load wires connect to the lower terminals. ABB provides specific connection capacities for rigid and flexible conductors.
Ensure all connections are tightened to the specified torque (2.8 Nm) to prevent overheating and ensure reliable operation. The breaker is designed for finger-safe terminals.
Q6: What is the breaking capacity of the ABB S202-B4, and why is it important?
The ABB S202-B4 has a breaking capacity of 6kA at 400V AC according to IEC 60898-1, and an ultimate short-circuit breaking capacity (Icu) of 10kA at 400V AC according to IEC 60947-2.
Breaking capacity is crucial as it indicates the maximum fault current the breaker can safely interrupt without being destroyed. A higher breaking capacity ensures the breaker can handle significant short circuits, protecting the circuit and ensuring personnel safety.
For most residential and light commercial applications, a 6kA or 10kA rating is generally sufficient. Industrial or high-fault current environments may require breakers with higher ratings.
Q7: Can the ABB S202-B4 be used in both AC and DC applications?
The standard ABB S202-B4 is designed for AC (Alternating Current) applications only. For DC (Direct Current) applications, ABB offers specific "UC" versions of their S200 series miniature circuit breakers.
These UC versions incorporate a permanent magnet for effective arc quenching in DC circuits, which behave differently from AC circuits regarding fault interruption.
Using a standard AC breaker in a DC application can be unsafe and lead to failure, so it's essential to select the correct breaker type for the intended current.
Q8: What are common troubleshooting steps if the ABB S202-B4 trips frequently?
Frequent tripping usually indicates an underlying issue with the circuit. First, identify if the tripping is due to an overload (too many devices connected) or a short circuit (faulty wiring or appliance).
To troubleshoot, disconnect all appliances from the circuit and then reset the breaker. If it holds, reconnect appliances one by one to find the faulty one. If it trips immediately with no load, there may be a wiring fault requiring an electrician's assessment.
Do not repeatedly reset a breaker that trips instantly, as this can cause damage to the breaker or indicate a serious fault.
Q9: What accessories are compatible with the ABB S202-B4?
The S202-B4 is part of ABB's System pro M compact® series, meaning it is fully compatible with a wide range of accessories. These include auxiliary contacts (for remote signaling), shunt releases (for remote tripping), overvoltage protection devices, and various connection accessories like busbars.
These accessories can be easily mounted on the side of the breaker, expanding its functionality for more complex control and monitoring systems.
The compatibility ensures that the S202-B4 can be integrated into sophisticated electrical systems, offering enhanced control, diagnostics, and safety features.
Q10: What is the difference between B, C, and D curve circuit breakers from ABB?
The tripping characteristics (B, C, D) define the instantaneous magnetic trip current as a multiple of the breaker's rated current.
A B-curve breaker trips between 3-5 times its rated current, ideal for cable protection and sensitive circuits.
A C-curve breaker trips between 5-10 times its rated current, suitable for circuits with moderate inrush currents, like fluorescent lighting or small motors.
A D-curve breaker trips between 10-20 times its rated current, designed for high inrush current applications such as large motors, transformers, or welding equipment. Choosing the correct curve is essential for preventing nuisance tripping while ensuring adequate protection.
