What this switch disconnector is and where it fits
The C123160LS is a Schneider Electric ComPacT NSXm 160NA switch disconnector, 3 poles, rated for distribution duty. It is a manually operated toggle switch with a visible contact position indicator, designed to provide safe isolation per EN/IEC 60947-3. The conventional free air thermal current (Ith) is 160 A at 40 °C, and the rated operational current depends on the utilisation category: 160 A in AC-22 (resistive/mixed loads) and 100 A in AC-23 (motor switching) at 440 V AC 50/60 Hz. The rated insulation voltage (Ui) is 800 V AC, and the rated impulse withstand voltage (Uimp) is 8 kV. This part mounts on a 35 mm symmetrical DIN rail or a backplate, making it a standard panel fit for distribution boards and machine disconnect applications.
Key ratings and what they mean for your panel
The AC-22 rating of 160 A covers resistive and mixed loads like lighting or heating banks. The AC-23 rating of 100 A is the figure to use when switching motor loads — it accounts for the higher inrush current of induction motors. The short-time withstand current (Icw) is 1500 A for 1 s or 3 s, and 335 A for 20 s, which tells you the switch can pass fault current long enough for an upstream breaker to clear. The short-circuit making capacity (Icm) is 2.13 kA for the switch-disconnector alone, but with an upstream protection circuit breaker it reaches 150 kA — that is the coordination figure to note for selectivity studies. Pollution degree 3 per IEC 60664-1 means it is rated for industrial environments where conductive pollution can occur. The IP40 enclosure protection keeps out tools and wires over 1 mm, and IK07 impact resistance handles light mechanical shocks during installation.
Termination and wiring
The C123160LS uses EverLink lug terminals, one per pole, accepting 2.5 to 95 mm² rigid or stranded copper, or 2.5 to 70 mm² flexible copper. The connection pitch is 27 mm. The lug design provides a stable, high-pressure connection that resists loosening from thermal cycling — relevant for high-cycle applications like conveyor or pump disconnects. The toggle control gives a clear on/off position, and the contact position indicator confirms the state visually.