Circuit breaker 3P ETI C-16AE 3-pole, 6 kA breaking capacity, type C, 16 A

The ETI Circuit breaker 3P C-16AE is a three-pole miniature circuit breaker designed for overcurrent protection in three-phase electrical installations. It provides a nominal current rating of 16 A and a type C tripping characteristic, with a short-circuit breaking capacity of 6 kA. The device is intended for installation in distribution boards and switchgear to protect branch circuits, motors and downstream equipment in residential, commercial and light industrial environments.

Advantages

The three-pole construction ensures simultaneous disconnection of all phases for improved safety in three-phase circuits. A type C tripping curve offers reliable protection against moderate inrush currents from motors and lighting while still clearing overloads and short circuits quickly. The 6 kA breaking capacity meets common installation requirements for effective short-circuit interruption. Compact form factor allows mounting on standard DIN rails and integration into existing distribution panels.

Suitable for

• Protection of three-phase branch circuits in residential and commercial distribution boards
• Protection of small motors and motor-driven equipment with moderate starting currents
• Feeder protection in light industrial or workshop installations
• Use in systems where coordinated multi-pole disconnection is required

When it may not be suitable

This circuit breaker is not intended for high fault-level networks where breaking capacity above 6 kA is required; in such systems a device with a higher short-circuit rating should be selected. It is also not suitable for applications that require a different tripping characteristic (for instance, highly inductive loads needing type D protection) or for single-phase only installations where a one- or two-pole device would be more appropriate.

Key specifications

• Poles: 3-pole
• Rated current: 16 A
• Tripping characteristic: Type C
• Short-circuit breaking capacity: 6 kA
• Intended mounting: DIN rail compatible miniature circuit breaker

How to use

Install the breaker into a compatible distribution board on a standard DIN rail and connect the three-phase supply conductors to the line terminals and the load conductors to the load terminals following local electrical codes. Ensure proper tightening torque on terminal screws and verify correct phase sequence if required by the installation. After wiring, test the breaker operation by applying expected load conditions and use a suitable insulation and continuity tester to confirm safe installation. Maintenance is limited to periodic visual inspection, ensuring terminals remain tight and the device is free from dust and corrosion.

What to consider before purchase

• Confirm the required rated current and tripping characteristic (16 A, type C) match the protected circuit and connected equipment
• Verify that a 6 kA breaking capacity is adequate for the installation’s prospective fault current
• Ensure compatibility with the distribution board’s DIN rail mounting and available pole count
• Check whether coordinated protection with upstream or downstream devices is necessary

Usage recommendations

For reliable operation, pair the circuit breaker with proper upstream protection and protective devices sized according to local regulations, and have installation and periodic testing performed by a qualified electrician.