Eaton HMCP30R3C Cutler-Hammer HMCP Series Thermal Magnetic Circuit Breakers

The Eaton HMCP30R3C (also labeled as Cutler-Hammer HMCP Series) is a 30A, 3-pole thermal-magnetic circuit breaker designed for motor circuit protection and short-circuit protection in industrial applications.

Key Specifications:

Series: HMCP (Heavy Molded Case Protector)

Manufacturer: Eaton / Cutler-Hammer

Ampere Rating: 30A

Poles: 3 (3P)

Voltage Rating:

480V AC (typical)

600V AC (check datasheet for exact rating)

Interrupting Capacity (AIC):

65kA @ 480V (high fault current withstand)

Trip Type: Thermal-Magnetic (combines overload + short-circuit protection)

Thermal Trip: Protects against sustained overcurrent (heating)

Magnetic Trip: Instantaneous response to short circuits

Mounting: Fixed or plug-in (depending on model)

Standards: UL 489, CSA, IEC (industrial-grade)

Differences Between HMCP30R3C & HMCP30R4C

Feature HMCP30R3C (3P) HMCP30R4C (4P, 3P+N)

Poles 3 (L1, L2, L3) 4 (L1, L2, L3 + Neutral)

Protection Thermal-Magnetic Magnetic-only (short-circuit only)

Common Use Motor protection, general power Motor circuits requiring neutral protection

Typical Applications:

✔ Motor Protection (often paired with an overload relay for full protection)

✔ Industrial Power Distribution (switchgear, panelboards)

✔ Short-Circuit Protection in high-fault environments

Replacement & Cross-Reference:

Direct Replacement: HMCP030R3C (same series, newer catalog number)

Eaton Equivalents:

Eaton FAZ-C30/3 (for similar magnetic-only protection)

Eaton GJL30 (thermal-magnetic alternative)

Check compatibility with panel type (e.g., Eaton C-Series, Pow-R-Line).