The Schneider Electric C160N32EFM is a ComPacT NS new generation 3-pole molded-case circuit breaker rated 1600 A at 50 °C, fitted with a MicroLogic 2.0 E electronic trip unit. The 2.0 E provides L (long-time overload) and I (instantaneous short-circuit) protection curves, plus an integrated energy meter — so it serves both as a main distribution breaker and a metering point in one enclosure. The 85 kA Icu at 240 V AC (50 kA at 415 V AC) means it can interrupt fault currents up to that level without upstream fuses or a current-limiting reactor, per IEC 60947-2 Category B utilization. That breaking capacity code is N — the standard interrupting rating for this frame size, not the high-performance S or H tier. The trip unit's electronic design includes a 20-minute thermal memory, which prevents nuisance reclosing after a sustained overload by retaining the thermal model of the protected conductor. For a 1600 A distribution feeder feeding downstream panelboards or large motor control centers, that memory matters — it avoids re-energizing a circuit that hasn't fully cooled. The LCD display on the front face shows real-time current, energy, and trip-event data without needing a separate power meter or communication gateway.
Mounting and integration — fixed backplate, front connections
Fixed-mount design on a backplate with front upside and downside connections and a 70 mm connection pitch. That pitch matches standard busbar systems for switchboard builders — no adapter plates needed for common distribution panels. The 210 mm width and 327 mm height fit a standard 600 mm wide enclosure section with room for cable entry on both sides. Four red LEDs for fault indication and one yellow LED for overload give immediate visual status without opening the door. The manually operated rotary handle provides clear ON/OFF position indication and padlockable in the OFF position per standard safety lockout procedures.
Overvoltage category III suits fixed-installation distribution boards downstream of the service entrance.