The Schneider Electric GV2ME16 (23A-32A) TeSys GV2 is a higher-current model in the same series, designed for protecting larger industrial motors.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the GV2ME16 model.
Overview and Identity
Product Line: TeSys GV2
Manufacturer: Schneider Electric
Specific Model: GV2ME16
Current Range: 23A to 32A (Adjustable)
Product Type: Motor Protection Circuit Breaker (MPCB)
This is a robust device that integrates the functions of a disconnect switch, short-circuit protector, and overload relay into a single unit for motors in this power range.
Key Features and Functions
Comprehensive Motor Protection:
Short-Cuit Protection (Magnetic): Provides instantaneous tripping in the event of a severe fault to protect the motor and downstream wiring.
Overload Protection (Thermal): The key feature is the adjustable thermal trip setting from 23A to 32A. This is set precisely to the motor's Full Load Amperage (FLA) to prevent damage from sustained overcurrents.
Safe Isolation: The rotary handle offers a clear "ON" and "OFF" position, providing a visible means of isolation for maintenance safety, compliant with international standards.
Trip Class: Standard Class 10A trip characteristic, which is ideal for standard squirrel-cage motors, allowing for the high inrush current during start-up without causing a nuisance trip.
Manual Control: Allows for direct, local starting and stopping of the motor.
Accessory Compatibility: Fully compatible with the standard range of TeSys GV2 accessories:
Auxiliary Contacts (e.g., GV2AF1): To signal the breaker's status (ON/OFF/TRIPPED) to a PLC or control system.
Undervoltage Release (UVR) / Shunt Trip (e.g., GV2ME02): For remote tripping or to prevent automatic restart after a power failure.
Technical Specifications (Summary for GV2ME16)
Feature Specification
Model GV2ME16
Adjustable Current Range 23 - 32 A
Rated Operational Voltage (Ue) 690V AC
Rated Insulation Voltage (Ui) 690V AC
Breaking Capacity (Icu/@415V) Typically 50 kA (Confirm with the official datasheet for specific voltages)
Utilization Category AC-3 (For squirrel-cage motor starting and stopping)
Trip Class Class 10A
Electrical Durability ~20,000 cycles
Mechanical Durability ~30,000 cycles
Standards IEC/EN 60947-1, IEC/EN 60947-2
Comparison with Smaller GV2 Models
The GV2ME16 is part of a graduated scale of GV2 breakers, each covering a specific current range.
Model Current Range Typical Motor Power (at 400V 3~)
GV2ME08 9A - 13A Up to ~5.5 kW (7.5 HP)
GV2ME10 12A - 18A Up to ~7.5 kW (10 HP)
GV2ME14 17A - 25A Up to ~11 kW (15 HP)
GV2ME16 23A - 32A Up to ~15 kW (20 HP)
GV2ME20 30A - 40A Up to ~18.5 kW (25 HP)
Critical Note: The physical size of the GV2ME16 is identical to the ME08, ME10, and ME14 models, allowing for easy replacement or upgrade within the same panel cutout. The GV2ME20 and above are larger.
Typical Applications
The GV2ME16 is suited for larger machinery and industrial applications, such as:
Large Pumps (e.g., for irrigation, water treatment)
Heavy-Duty Conveyor Systems
Industrial Fans and Blowers
Mixers and Agitators in chemical or food processing
Compressors
Crushers and Grinders