Circuit Breaker 3P ETI C-13AE 6 kA C characteristic, 3-pole

The ETI Circuit Breaker 3P C-13AE is a three-pole thermal-magnetic protective device with a C tripping characteristic and a rated short-circuit breaking capacity of 6 kA. Intended for three-phase circuits in residential and light commercial electrical distribution systems, it combines overload and short-circuit protection in a single compact module. The breaker is compatible with standard DIN-rail mounting and provides selective tripping behavior suitable for typical inductive and resistive loads.

Advantages

This three-pole breaker offers coordinated thermal-magnetic protection across all phases, helping to limit damage from overloads and short circuits. The C characteristic gives a balanced response for general-purpose circuits with moderate inrush currents such as motors and fluorescent lighting. With a 6 kA breaking capacity, the device can interrupt common fault currents found in small to medium installations while fitting standard DIN-rail distribution boards for straightforward installation.

Suitable for

• Protection of three-phase circuits in residential distribution boards
• Light commercial and office electrical panels
• Circuits with moderate inrush currents—small motors, HVAC starters, lighting
• Retrofit or new installations using standard DIN-rail systems

When it may not be suitable

This breaker is not intended for high-energy industrial sites where fault levels exceed 6 kA or where selective coordination with upstream devices requires higher breaking capacities. It may also be unsuitable for circuits with very high motor starting currents or specialized protection needs (such as earth-leakage sensing) that demand other device types.

Key specifications

• Poles: 3-pole configuration for three-phase protection
• Tripping characteristic: C type (moderate magnetic trip threshold)
• Short-circuit breaking capacity: 6 kA
• Protection method: thermal-magnetic (combined overload and short-circuit)
• Mounting: standard DIN-rail compatible

How to use

Install the breaker on a compatible DIN-rail inside the distribution board, ensuring correct orientation and secure mechanical fixing. Connect the three phase conductors to the input terminals and the outgoing load conductors to the output terminals according to the panel wiring diagram. Verify that the system voltage and current rating of the selected breaker size match the circuit requirements and that upstream protection and coordination are adequate. After wiring, perform insulation and continuity checks and test the breaker operation under no-load conditions before placing the circuit into service.

What to consider before purchase

• Match the breaker rated current to the circuit load and expected continuous current
• Confirm that a C characteristic is appropriate for the load type and inrush behavior
• Verify that a 6 kA breaking capacity meets the installation fault level and coordination needs
• Ensure physical compatibility with the distribution board DIN-rail and terminal space

Usage recommendations

For reliable protection, select the breaker rated current to exceed expected continuous load with appropriate margin, coordinate with upstream devices to ensure selective tripping where required, and follow local electrical codes and installation practices. Periodically inspect connections for tightness and signs of overheating, and replace the device if it shows signs of mechanical or electrical damage.