3 Pole Circuit Breakers

In today’s electrical systems you can’t overlook the importance of a circuit breaker especially the one that’s reliable, provides safety and protection and durability. Whether you are running a commercial business, a residential property or an industrial facility, you would always require a quality circuit breaker as it can make a substantial difference. 

When it comes to a circuit breaker, you have multiple options and among all of them the 3 pole circuit breaker is the most famous one for a three phase power system. However, before you finalize your breaker, it’s important to understand how a 3 pole breaker works and when you should consider investing in it. 

What Is A 3-Pole Circuit Breaker?

The 3 pole circuit breaker is specifically designed to control your three phase electric circuits. The three different poles work all at the same time on the three different conductors to interrupt electricity. Three phase power systems are mostly used in commercial and industrial buildings due to their efficiency of delivering power over longer distances. 

The key features of a 3 pole circuit breaker include; 

• Switching of all three phases at once 
• Overload and short circuit protection 
• Works well with three phase motors and transformers
• They come with thermal-magnetic mechanisms

Why Should You Invest In A 3 Pole Circuit Breaker?

1-It’s The Best Suitable Option For A Three Phase System 

For high load applications, a three phase power system is the most suitable option. It’s mainly used in commercial and industrial buildings where constant and long range power is required. A 3 pole circuit breaker is specifically built to handle such systems and it’s an essential component for pumps, compressors, HVAC systems and other large equipment. 

2-Advanced Protection 

In case of an electric fault, the 3 pole breaker immediately breaks the connection of three lines all at once. This isn’t the kind of protection you get with a one pole breaker. The 3 pole breaker will immediately cut down the power and it even prevents the imbalanced loads. 

3-Easier Installation And Wiring 

With a 3 pole circuit breaker, you won’t have to worry about connecting or installing multiple single poles. It’s an integrated unit that can handle a three phase power system all by itself. Moreover, it comes with a very compact design which means that it doesn’t require any additional space and it can easily fit a closed panel space. 

4-It’s More Cost Effective 

You might feel like a 3 pole circuit breaker is more expensive than a single pole one and that’s true. However, it’s a one time payment and in the longer run, you do end up saving money with a 3 pole breaker. The reason is that it requires less maintenance, it can increase the lifespan of your other equipment by protecting against electric imbalances and phase losses. 

When Should You Consider Buying A 3 Pole Circuit Breaker?

Here are some situations where it’s best to invest in a reliable 3 pole circuit breaker;

• You are upgrading or setting a three phase power system 
• You have high capacity motors or equipment that require a 3 pole circuit breaker
• You are working on a commercial, industrial or a high demanding residential project
• You want to ensure maximum safety, reliability and durability 

If you have a three phase electric system in your building then buying a 3 pole circuit breaker isn’t an option, it’s a necessity! Such electrical infrastructures require extra safety and protection. With a quality 3 pole circuit breaker you can ensure that your system runs safely with minimal risks of any electrical hazard or damage. A 3 pole breaker will bring you the kind of value you need. It’s just the kind of investment that you should make for your safety.

Yes, you can use a 3 pole breaker in a single phase system but you should only use two of the poles. It’s highly recommended to use a 3 pole breaker in a three phase system because that’s what it's built for. Otherwise, it won’t be very cost effective for you. 

Yes, a 3 pole circuit breaker is more expensive than a one or two pole breaker. However, the added efficiency, safety and compatibility of a 3 pole breaker for your three phase system is just the right kind of investment that you should make. 

There are two types of a 3 pole breaker; thermal and magnetic. The thermal one will provide you protection against short circuits and electricity overloads and the magnetic one will add extra safety in your advanced systems. Depending on your application, you can choose the right breaker with your desired amperage and voltage rating.