The Schneider Electric GV2ME20 (30A-40A) TeSys GV2 represents a significant step up in the product line, designed for protecting larger industrial motors.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the GV2ME20 model.
Overview and Identity
Product Line: TeSys GV2
Manufacturer: Schneider Electric
Specific Model: GV2ME20
Current Range: 30A to 40A (Adjustable)
Product Type: Motor Protection Circuit Breaker (MPCB)
This is a heavy-duty version of the GV2 breaker, integrating disconnect, short-circuit, and overload protection for motors requiring higher current.
Key Features and Functions
Comprehensive Motor Protection:
Short-Circuit Protection (Magnetic): Instantaneous tripping for high-level fault currents.
Overload Protection (Thermal): Features an adjustable thermal setting from 30A to 40A to match the specific Full Load Amperage (FLA) of the protected motor.
Safe Isolation: The robust handle provides a clear, visible break, ensuring safe isolation for maintenance work on the motor or downstream circuit.
Trip Class: Standard Class 10A trip characteristic, suitable for the starting curves of most industrial squirrel-cage motors.
Manual Control: Allows for local ON/OFF control of the motor circuit.
Accessory Compatibility: Compatible with the standard TeSys GV2 accessories for enhanced functionality:
Auxiliary Contacts (e.g., GV2AF1): For remote status indication.
Undervoltage Release (UVR) / Shunt Trip (e.g., GV2ME02): For remote tripping and safety functions.
Technical Specifications (Summary for GV2ME20)
Feature Specification
Model GV2ME20
Adjustable Current Range 30 - 40 A
Rated Operational Voltage (Ue) 690V AC
Rated Insulation Voltage (Ui) 690V AC
Breaking Capacity (Icu/@415V) Typically 50 kA (Always confirm with the official datasheet)
Utilization Category AC-3 (Squirrel-cage motors)
Trip Class Class 10A
Electrical Durability ~20,000 cycles
Mechanical Durability ~30,000 cycles
Standards IEC/EN 60947-1, IEC/EN 60947-2
Critical Difference: Physical Size
This is a crucial point when moving from the GV2ME16 to the GV2ME20.
The GV2ME20 is physically larger than the GV2ME08, ME10, ME14, and ME16 models.
The smaller models (ME08 to ME16) share the same compact dimensions and mounting footprint.
The GV2ME20 (and the larger ME25/ME32 models) require more space in the control panel.
Planning Note: If you are replacing a smaller GV2 breaker with a GV2ME20 or designing a new panel, you must account for this larger physical size and different mounting footprint.
Comparison within the GV2 Series
Model Current Range Typical Motor Power (at 400V 3~) Physical Size
GV2ME14 17A - 25A Up to ~11 kW (15 HP) Compact Size
GV2ME16 23A - 32A Up to ~15 kW (20 HP) Compact Size
GV2ME20 30A - 40A Up to ~18.5 kW (25 HP) Larger Size
GV2ME25 40A - 50A Up to ~22 kW (30 HP) Larger Size
Typical Applications
The GV2ME20 is used for substantial motors in industrial settings, such as:
Large Hydraulic Pumps
High-Power Air Compressors
Primary Conveyor Drives
Large Mixing and Agitation Equipment
Industrial Dust Collection Systems
Selection and Usage
When selecting a GV2ME20:
Confirm the motor's Full Load Current (FLC) is within the 30A-40A range.
Ensure your control panel has the physical space for the larger GV2ME20 enclosure.
Set the adjustable current dial to the motor's exact FLA after installation.
Standard Circuit Layout: Power -> GV2ME20 MPCB -> Contactor -> Motor.
The GV2ME20 provides a robust and integrated protection solution for mid-range power motors. For all installation dimensions, torque settings, and safety information, always refer to the official Schneider Electric datasheet for the GV2ME20.