Superior Series MCCB

current limiting
moulded case circuit breaker

LK-Electric Company

The History of LKE Electric

The acronym LKE stands for Lauritz Knudsen Electric. In the late 1970s, the LK
Electric Company was established in Singapore by its parent company, LKE
(Europe) of Denmark. It is to manufacture LKs range of products, namely, the
Domino, the Tabular of low tension switchboards, the ELC-24 medium voltage
panel and the Ring Main Unit (RMU).
By the mid-80s, with an influx of technology from Denmark, a Components
Division was set up. This was also to cater to the growing demands in the low
voltage sector. Popular products such as the Switch Fuse of the QSA series,
Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCB), Moulded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCB),
Load Break Switches (LKs ELC-24) and Vacuum Circuit Breakers (LKs VB-1)
were all produced in the Singapore factory.
In 1992, the LKE Electric Company was established in Malaysia and by
1994, has offices in Zhuhai, Shanghai and Beijing in China. At the same time,
LKE Electric entered into a partnership with the Cubic Modular System A/S
company of Denmark to produce the Cubic Modular Switchboard. And since
then, there is no looking back for the company.
The company is always striving to benefit its customers. Efforts in R&D are
constantly focused, especially with the current era of modern technology, to
enable its products to be of a higher quality and safer, yet at the same time,
aesthetically pleasing and affordable. The company also prides itself with
upgrading of its production facilities, in keeping up with technology, to fulfill
stringent process and quality control requirements. Building a relationship with
the customers and understanding their needs with a zero-defect and
unbeatable range of products are the main objectives of LKE Electric.
Focusing on these objectives, LKE Electric has become an industry leader
with its MCCB Superior Series, 6 & 10kA MCB series, 12kV Load Break Switch
(LBS) and Vacuum Load Break Switch (VLBS) and SF6 Breakers.

Superior Series Current Limiting MCCB

LKE Electrics Superior Series Current Limiting MCCB was developed with the
latest technology for heavy duty usage: a magnetic trip unit for reliable quality
tripping when short circuit occurs, repulse force for moving and fix contact
construction, zero arc distance for the arc chute moulded in with thread nut for the
case and cover and a long lasting BMC material for mounting, super mechanical
and electrical strength.
Application
The current limiting MCCB Superior series is suitable for circuit protection in
individual enclosures, switchboards, lighting and power panels as well as motorcontrol centers. The MCCB is designed to protect systems against overload and
short circuits up to 65kA with the full range of accessories.
Mechanism
The MCCB Superior series is designed to be trip-free. This applies when the
breaker contacts open under overload and short circuit conditions and even if the
breaker handle is held at the ON position. To eliminate single phasing, should an
overload or short circuit occur on any one phase, a common trip mechanism will
disconnect all phase contacts of a multipole breaker.
Material
The Superior series circuit breakers housing is made of BMC material, which
is unbreakable and has a very high dielectric strength, to ensure the highest level
of insulation. The same material is also used to segregate the live parts in between
the phases.
Accessories
To enhance the Superior series MCCB, internal and external modules can be
fitted onto the breaker. They are as follows:
shunt trip coil
undervoltage release
auxiliary switch
alarm switch
motorized switch
rotary handle
plug-in kit (draw-out unit)
auxiliary & alarm switch
International Standards
The MCCB Superior series conform and meet the requirements of these
international governing bodies:
IEC 60947-2 from the International Electrotechnical Committee
BS EN60947-2 from British Standards
BT/T14048-2 from China
NEMA AB-1 from American Standards
VDE 0660 from Germany.

NEMA
2

Accreditation
of the Superior
Series MCCB
Having undergone rigid testings and achieving
accreditation from SIRIM QAS of Malaysia and
TILVA from China, these test reports affirm the
superior quality of LKE Electric Companys
Current Limiting Superior Series MCCB.

Exceptional Current Limiting

Quick-Breaking Performance
The MCCB Superior series has exceptional performance characteristics at the
rated breaking current of 50KA. This includes:
Limiting short-circuit current, lp, to 106KA (maximum peak let-through
current)
Interrupting fault current, Ic, 50.7KA at 436V
Breaking time of approximately 0.00949 seconds
Arc-quenching time at approximately 0.0066 seconds.
As a result, the peak short circuit current (lp) is limited to the cutoff current (Ic). This leads to a substantial reduction in electrodynamic
stresses in the overall system. l 2 let-through (proportional to the
shaded area) is considerably reduced, resulting in lower thermal
stresses in down-stream equipment and connecting cables.

Testing Current Wave Curve

The Superior Series MCCB

an in-depth look

Features
1

1 BMC material for

base and cover
2 Arc chute

3 Mounting for ST or
UVT connection block
3

4 Trip-free mechanism

5 Moving contacts

6 Clear and IEC6

compliant markings
7 Magnetic trip unit
8 Thermal trip unit

9 Compact size

Features
a Arching chamber
b BMC
c Handle
d Magnetic trip unit
e BMC
f

Tripping mechanism

g Moving contact
h Fixed contact
i

Thread nut

The Technology of Tripping Devices

MCCB Arc Chamber (diagram 1)
The MCCB arc chamber is specially designed with an arc channel as a
flow guide to improve the capability of extinguishing the arc and reducing the
arc distance.
MCCB Base (diagram 2)
Mounting screws are used to insert thread nuts in the MCCB base. The
cover can withstand high electromagnetic force during a short-circuit; this
prevents the MCCB cover from tearing off. This is an improvement over selftaping screw of other models.
Fixed Contact (diagram 3)
The MCCB fixed contact does not have any mounting screws near the
contact points. A steel screw can generate heat and the magnetic flux
surrounding the conductor carrying the current can create a very high
temperature. If a short-circuit occurs, it will cause the contact points to be
welded or melted.

Diagram 1

Materials (diagram 4)
The base and cover of the MCCB are made of a specially formulated
material, i.e. bold moulded compound (BMC). It has a high-impact thermal
strength, fire resistant and capable of withstanding high electromagnetic
forces that occur during a short-circuit. Majority MCCB manufacturers in the
market use pheonolic compounds with less electrical and mechanical
strength.
Repulsive Force (diagram 5)
An electromagnetic repulsive force is where the force works between a
current of the movable conductor and a current (I) in the reversed direction
of the fixed conductor. This is an improvement of the electromagnetic force
during breaking over other models.

Diagram 5

Diagram 4

Diagram 2

Diagram 3

The Technology of Tripping Devices

Thermal Magnetic Type (Solenoid)
MCCB Superior Series, all models
Time-Delay Operation
Time-delay operation occurs when an overcurrent heats and warps the bimetal
to actuate the trip bar.
Instantaneous Operation
If the overcurrent is excessive and the magnetization of the solenoid coil
strong enough to attract the armature, an instantaneous operation will
actuate the trip bar.

Hydraulic Magnetic Type

MCCB Superior Series, selected models only
Time-Delay Operation
In an overcurrent flow situation, the magnetic force of the coil overcomes the
spring and closes to the pole piece, thereby attracting the armature and
actuates the trip bar. The delay is obtained by the viscosity of silicon oil.
Instantaneous Operation
If the overcurrent is excessive, the armature is instantly attracted without the
influence of the moving core.

Thermal magnetic tripping

(available for all models)

Hydraulic magnetic tripping

(available for LKS-63 C and S
and LKS-100 C models only )

Tripping Characteristics
Bi-metal Overload Tripping
Bi-metal overloads are designed to protect the motor against overheating due
to excessive current loading and at the same time, allow full utilization of its rating.
To date, LKE designs MCCB according to the international standards (see below).
Multiple of Set Current (A)

Tripping Time

Operating Condition

1.05 (In < 63)

> 1hour

cold

1.05 (In > 63)

> 2h

cold

1.30 (In < 63)

< 1hour

warm

1.30 (In > 63)

< 2hour

warm

These thermomagnetic overcurrent releases (bi-metal) are non-interchangeable

thermomagnetic devises. They incorporate heat sensitive elements for protection
against overcurrent and the rated current of the releases (Ith) must be equal to or
greater than the operating current of the circuit breaker.
Inverse Time Delay Tripping
The thermodynamic release of LKEs circuit breaker affects the inverse time
delay tripping, while the magnetic release affects an instantaneous tripping. It is
shown in Table A (distribution circuit breaker) and Table B (motor protection circuit
breakers).
Thermodynamic Release Ambient Temperature; land +40C, marine +45C

Table A

Rated Current (A)

1.30 In (heated state) Operative Time (h)

10 In 63

10In + 20%

63 < In 100

10In + 20%

100 In 800

5In + 20%
10In + 20%

630 In 800

8In + 20%

Thermodynamic Release Ambient Temperature; land +40C, marine +45C

Rated Current (A)

Table B

Operating Current for

Magnetic Release (A)

1.05 In (cold state) Operative Time (h)

10 In 63

1.05 In (cold state) Operative Time (hr)

1.30 In (heated state) Operative Time (hr)

Operating Current for

Magnetic Release (A)

12In + 20%

Installation and Fittings

Further adjustments are unnecessary or allowed for the circuit breaker or its
accessories during service as their settings have been fine tuned by LKE Electric.
The handle of the circuit breaker has three positions which will indicate when
the breaker is closed, opened or tripped respectively. When the handle is at the trip
position, it must be pulled backward first so as to reset the breaker and be ready
for closure.
If the security seal of the circuit breaker is kept intact for 24 months from the
delivery date, and instructions are followed for its storage and maintenance, any
inherently defective product will be repaired and/or replaced at no further expense
to the customer.
Recommended Tightening Torque of the MCCB Terminal Screws
Terminal Screw

Tightening Torque (Nm)

Pan head screw M5

2.3 - 3.4

Pan head screw M8

4.9 - 6.9

Hex. socket head screw M8

7.8 - 12.7

Hex. socket head screw M10

13.7 - 22.5

Hex. socket head screw M11

18.6 - 31.4

Hex. socket head screw M10 c/w terminal bar

22.5 - 37.2

Hex. socket head screw M12 c/w terminal bar

40.2 - 65.7

Preferred Conductor Size

with Preference to Current Rating
Current Range (A)

Conductor Size (sq. mm)

12

1.5

20

2.5

25

32

50

10

65

16

85

25

100

35

130

50

150

50

175

70

200

95

225

95

250

120

275

150

300

185

350

185

400

240

Copper Bar Dimensions for

Currents above 400A
Rated Current
(A)

Copper Bars
Number

Dimension (mm)

400

30 x 5

500

40 x 5

630

50 x 5

800

60 x 5

1000

80 x 5

1250

100 x 5

Arc Quenching Distance

Due to the unique design of the arc chute with an Arc Top Plate, the arc quenching
level is very low compared to other conventional models.

Model Code

Arc Quenching
Distance A & B (mm)

LKS-63C

15

LKS-63S
LKS-100C
LKS-100N

20

LKS-100S
LKS-100H
LKS-225C
LKS-225N

50

LKS-225S
LKS-225H
LKS-400C

60

LKS-400S
LKS-400H
LKS-600S
LKS-600H
LKS-800S
LKS-800H

100

measurements are in millimeter (mm)

Side view

Front view

10

How to select a proper MCCB for protection

It is very important to select and apply the right MCCB for a long lasting and
trouble-free operation in a power system. The right selection requires a detailed
understanding of the complete system and other influencing factors. The factors
for selecting a MCCB are as follows:
1 ) nominal current rating of the MCCB
2 ) fault current Icu, Ics
3 ) other accessories required
4 ) number of poles
Nominal Current
To determine the nominal current of a MCCB, it is dependent on the full load
current rating of the load and the scope of load enhancement in future.
Fault Current Icu, Ics
It is essential to calculate precisely the fault current that the MCCB will have to
clear for a healthy and trouble-free life of the system down stream. The level of fault
current at a specific point in a power system depends on following factors:
a ) transformer size in KVA and the impedance
b ) type of supply system
c ) the distance between the transformer and the fault location
d ) size and material of conductors and devices in between the transformer
and the fault location
e ) the impedance up to the fault junction.
One can safely use an empirical formula, assuming a 5% impedance of the
transformer, to arrive at the projected fault level at transformer terminals of the
secondary side. This means that the projected fault current will be approximately
20 times the full load current of the transformer. The impedance of the cables and
devices up to MCCB further reduce the fault current.
Icu: ultimate short circuit breaking capacity whereby the prescribed conditions
according to a specified test sequence does not include the capability of
the circuit breaker to carry its rated current continuously.
Ics: service short circuit breaking capacity whereby the prescribed conditions
according to a specified test sequence includes the capability of the circuit
breaker to carry its rated current continuously.
Other Accessories Required
The selection of other accessories required will depend on the control and
indications as required. The range available are as follows:
a ) Under voltage release
b ) Shunt-trip release
c ) Auxiliary contact
d ) Trip alarm contact
e ) Rotary operating mechanism f ) Motor operating mechanism
g ) Insulation barrier
h ) Plug-in kit

11

Quick & Wide Selection Guide

The Superior series current limiting MCCB is available in 8 frame sizes, with ratings from 10A to 800A. Each
frame size offers several interrupting capacities (Icu), up to 65kA, at AC 415V. Available in C, N, S and H
configurations for various breaking capacity, the space-saving current limiting MCCB Superior series provides
greater design flexibility than before. The C and N configurations are for general use in a general circuit. A bestseller worldwide, the C and N ranges from 60A to 800A in frame sizes. Also for general usage, the S and H
configurations have a higher interrupting capacity, from 15A to 800A in frame sizes, is actually an upgrade from
the C and N range.

415V AC
Symmetrical

Interrupting Capacity (kA)

5

15

LKS-63C

LKS-63S

18

35

50

65

LKS-100C

LKS-100N

LKS-100S

LKS-100H

LKS-225C

LKS-225N

LKS-225S

LKS-225H

LKS-400S

LKS-400H

LKS-600S

LKS-600H

LKS-800S

LKS-800H

10
15
20
30
40
50
60

Breaker Rated Current (A)

75
100
125
150
160
180
200
225
250
300
315
400
500
600
700
800

12

LKS-100

Model Code

Electrical Characteristics

AF

Frame Size

63

100

Ui

Rated Insulation Voltage

(V), 50 Hz

690

690

Ue

Rated Voltage
(V), 50 Hz

415

415

Poles

with
current

1000

1500

w/o
current

8500

8500

10,15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 63

15, 20, 30, 40,

50, 60, 75, 100

Operational
Performance
Capability

Rated Current
at 40 C

Icu

Overcurrent
Releases

Ics

415V

15

18

35

50

65

240V

10

30

35

70

100

130

Rated Service
Short Circuit
Breaking Capacity
(kA)

415V

18

25

33

240V

15

18

35

50

65

Thermal & Fixed

Magnetic Trip Unit

available

available

Adjustable Thermal &

Magnetic Trip Unit

Test Trip Button

available

available

0.9

1.6

75

90

130

155

68

68

Weight
(3 pole)

mm

Rated Ultimate
Short Circuit
Breaking Capacity
(kA)

kg

Mechanical
Characteristics

MCCB Electrical & Mechanical Features

LKS-63

c
b

13

LKS-225
C

LKS-400
H

LKS-600
H

LKS-800
H

225

400

600

800

690

690

690

690

415

415

415

415

1000

1000

1000

500

7000

4000

4000

2500

125, 160, 180, 200, 225

250, 315, 350, 400

500, 600

700, 800

18

35

50

65

50

65

50

65

50

65

35

70

100

130

100

130

100

130

100

130

18

25

33

25

33

25

33

25

33

18

35

50

65

50

65

50

65

50

65

available

available

available

available

available

available

available

available

available

available

3.5

9.5

10.5

105

140

210

210

165

257

275

275

86

103

103

103

14

Outline Dimensions of the MCCB

LKS-63 C, S

LKS-100 C, N, S, H

LKS-225 C, N, S, H

LKS-400 S, H

LKS-600 S, H

LKS-800 S, H

15

Operating Characteristics & Ambient Compensation

LKS-63 C, S

LKS-100
C, N, S, H

LKS-225
C, N, S, H

LKS-400 S, H

LKS-600 S, H

LKS-800 S, H

16

Internal Accessories
Auxiliary Contact (AUX)
The auxiliary contact is used for remote signalling and control purposes. This
consists of one or more than one potential free change-over contacts. It also acts
as an indicator whether the circuit breakers status is opened or closed.
Configurations:

1NO + 1NC
2NO + 2NC

Auxiliary contact

Undervoltage Release (UVT)

The undervoltage release is used to trip the MCCB when there is a drop in
voltage. The UVT can also be used for remote tripping and electrical interlocking
purposes. The tripping threshold is 35% to 70% of the rated voltage. Pick-up
voltage is 85% of the rated coil voltage. The operating voltage is AC 220V or
380V at 50/60Hz.
Undervoltage release

Shunt Trip (ST)

The shunt release is used for remote tripping of the MCCB under abnormal
conditions. The operating voltage is 70% to 110% of the rated voltage.

Shunt release

Alarm Switch (AS)

When a tripping occurs in the MCCB, it is indicated by the alarm switch. The
potential free change-over contacts can be utilized for indicative and circuit control
purposes.
Configurations:

1 NO + 1 NC
2 NO + 2 NC

Alarm switch

17

External Accessories
Insulation Barrier
The insulation barrier should be utilized on the MCCB to facilitate
termination of cable links. Used on the incoming side of the MCCB, it
provides additional safety as it is made of superior insulating materials
that have good mechanical and electrical properties. The insulation
barrier prevents accidental contacts and flash-over between each
phase and is highly recommended for the breakers especially during
installation of a switchboard.

Plug-in Kit (PIK)

The MCCB plug-in kit is designed to replace the standard
terminal with a rear connection to improve the opening capability.
Suitable for isolation, the plug-in kit has a better contact performance
in the MCCB when there is less force and a low temperature. It is also
important to note that the MCCB can be drawn out without
disconnecting the incoming live cable.

Plug-in kit

Rotary Handle (RH)

The MCCB toggle handle operating mechanism is used to
facilitate the ON/OFF operation when the MCCB is installed in the
cubicles of distribution boards. It is designed to be attached directly
onto the MCCB and transform the toggle handle movement into a
rotation switch to serve as a position indicator switch.
Rotary handle

Motor Operating Mechanism (MOD)

The motor-operated mechanism enables the MCCB to be
switched ON or OFF automatically. The MCCB should also be
equipped with an alarm switch for automatic resetting purposes.

Motor operating mechanism

18

Internal Accessories Specification

Shunt Trip
MCCB
model

Cut-off
Switch

Operating
Voltage

Operating
Time

63 C, S

equipped

240V

5 - 15 mins

100 C, N, S & H

equipped

240V

7 - 15 mins

225 C, N, S & H

equipped

240V

7 - 15 mins

400 S & H

equipped

240V

7 - 15 mins

equipped

240V

7 - 15 mins

equipped

240V

7 - 15 mins

600 S & H
800 S & H

Auxiliary Contact and Alarm Switch

Open Position

Circuit Breaker > 400A

2 NO + 2 NC

Circuit Breaker > 225A

1 NO + 1 NC

Close Position

Circuit Breaker > 400A

2 NO + 2 NC

Circuit Breaker > 225A

1 NO + 1 NC

Auxiliary Contact
Durability

Make & Break Capacity

Frame Size

100A < In < 630A

100A < In < 630A

Conventional Current (Ith)

Rated Operational Current at AC 380V

0.3A

0.3A

I/Ic

10

10

U/Uc

Cos

0.3

0.3

I/Ic

U/Uc

Cos

0.3

0.3

Number of cycles

6050

10

Frequency (t/s)

360

120

Time (s)

> 0.05

> 0.05

Make

Category
AC-15

Break

19

Installation and Fittings

External Accessories

20

Outline Dimensions of Rotary Handle & Door Hole

Outline & Mounting Drawing

Shortest Distance between Hinge &

Handle Center and available Shaft Space

Door Hole for Handle

Handle

Features
can be pad-locked in both ON and OFF positions.
when door is locked in ON position, can be opened in OFF position.
protective class (based on IEC529 standards) at IP54.

21

Selection Table & Installation Guide for Accessories

Name of Accessory

LKS-63

LKS-100

LKS-225

LKS-400

LKS-630
LKS-800

Alarm Switch
* Trip Indication

Auxiliary Switch
* On & Off Indication

Shunt Trip
* Remote Trip Unit

UVT
* Undervoltage Release

Shunt Trip + Auxiliary Switch

Shunt Trip + UVT

2 Auxiliary Switch

Auxiliary + UVT

Alarm + Shunt Trip

Alarm + Auxiliary Switch

Alarm + UVT

Alarm + Auxiliary + Shunt Trip

Alarm + 2 Sets of Auxiliary

Alarm + Auxiliary + UVT

item
Left Side

*
*

Right Side

1. Only lead wire type is available

2. For Alarm, Auxiliary, Switch and UVT,a module is
mounted externally on the cover.

Alarm
Auxiliary switch
Shunt trip
UVT

MCCB On/Off Toggle

22

symbol

Outline Drawings of Accessories

Shunt Trip Release

Undervoltage Release

Alarm Switch

Model Code

ACMSST - 63

39

31

42

23.5

ACMSST - 100

29

32.7

38.5

22

ACMSST - 225

29

34.5

43

30

ACMSST - 400

62.5

60

37.5

28

ACMSST - 630

63.5

60

37.5

28

Model Code

ACMSVT - 63

39

30.5

37.5

23.1

ACMSVT - 100

35.5

30

29.5

23.4

ACMSVT - 225

39.5

34.5

31.2

30.3

ACMSVT - 400

58.5

35

63.4

28.3

ACMSVT - 630

58.5

50.8

97

27.9

Model Code

ACMSAL - 100

29.5

30.6

37.5

23.6

ACMSAL - 225

37.5

30.6

40

28.6

ACMSAL - 400

55

63

28

29.5

ACMSAL - 630

55

63

28

39

measurements are in millimeter (mm)

23

Outline Drawings of Accessories

Auxiliary Switch

Auxiliary + Alarm Switch

Model Code

ACMSAX - 100

29.5

27

37.5

23.6

ACMSAX - 225

37.5

30.6

40

28.6

ACMSAX - 400

55

63

28

29.5

ACMSAX - 630

55

63

28

39

Model Code

ACMSAA - 100

29.5

27

37.5

23.6

ACMSAA - 225

37.5

30.6

40

38.6

ACMSAA - 400

55

63

28

29.5

ACMSAA - 630

55

63

28

39

measurements are in millimeter (mm)

24

Outline Drawings of Accessories

Motor Operating Mechanism

Rotary Handle

Model Code

ACMSMOD - 100

117.5

90

91

ACMSMOD - 225

156

105

101

ACMSMOD - 400

226

132

143

ACMSMOD - 630

226

207

143

Model Code

ACMRH - 50

100

25

49

68

ACMRH - 100

104

30

49

69

ACMRH - 225

143

35

55

72

ACMRH - 400

195

129

83

110

ACMRH - 630

195

129

83

110

measurements are in millimeter (mm)

25

Outline Drawings of Accessories

Plug-in Kit
model code

MZ1-100/30

MZ1-225/30

MZ1-400/30

MZ1-630/30

92

108

136

213

A1

60

70

44

140

30

38

50

58

B1

70

73

135

143

104

106

175

184

10

10

D1

10

13

13

134

144

225

243

E1

26

32

60

70

87

140

F1

M10

25

28

44

13

13

18

17

26

34

40

53

H1

16

15

24

20

M10

11

14

17.5

27

27

90

105.5

144

210

L1

60

70

87

140

M5

M5

M8

M8

108

120

m1

62

79

79

146

m2

122

134

18

15

15

measurements are in millimeter (mm)

26

Definition of Short-circuit
and Short-circuit Current
Short-circuit in a Network
When a short-circuit in a network occurs, it will create a highly damaged and
abnormal condition to the system, whereby the normal insulation of the system, be
it the cables or equipment and load, are damaged.
The function of the MCCB as a protection device, is to protect overloads and
bring the effect of this faulty condition under control at a fast speed in order to
reduce the damages.
The LKE Superior series MCCB, with the right combination of accessories and
proper selection to coordinate between the down-stream and up-stream of the
rated current and fault level, is one of the more reliable circuit breaker protection
device available.
It is important to understand the full load current and fault level to determine
the rated current and short-circuit kA of the MCCB before selecting the right
MCCB to protect the down-stream cable, equipment and load.
The value of the short-circuit current at a fault-junction depends mainly on:
the kVA of the supply source, (either a transformer or generator).
the type of supply system.
the length and cross section of the cable and device lying in between the
source of supply and fault-junction.
Types of Short-circuit
Before calculating the short-circuit current at any point of the network, one
must be able to differentiate the various types of short-circuit. In a three-phase
network, short-circuits are generally classified as below, depending on the number
of conductor affected and with or without fault-to-earth.

Three-phase fault
Isc = Uo
z

Two-phase fault

One-phase shorted
to Neutral

Isc = Uo
z

Isc = Uo
3 z

27

Cross-country three-phase
shorted to Neutral
Isc =

Uo
z = 1/z1 + 1/z2 + 1/z2

The Peak Value of the Short-circuit Current

When an R-L series circuit is closed with an A/C source, the current
component results in:
1 ) an A/C component with a phase shift with respect to the voltage
2 ) a D/C decaying component.
The arc component is superimposed on the D/C component. The initial peak
value of the short-circuit current depends on the voltage at the instance of the
breaker closing. The two extreme cases are:
a ) when the breaker is closed at peak voltage, the D/C component is zero and
the fault current is symmetrical or balanced.

b ) when the breaker is closed at zero voltage, the D/C component is

asymmetrical or unbalanced.

28

Determination of the Fault Current

The initial peak value depends on the instance of the breaker closing and on the
factor K = R/X [Refer Fig.1]. In practical applications, the value of K lies mostly
between 1.1 to 1.5. The electro-dynamic stress on the current carrying parts
depends on this peak value Ip.
Calculation of the Short-circuit Current close to the Transformer
If the MCCB is used as a main switch, whether as a transfer switch or a
distribution breaker close to the transformer, a rough estimate of the short-circuit
current is sufficient. The percentage impedance of the transformer Z can be read
out from the name plate. Otherwise, it is generally assumed as 5%. The shortcircuit current can be calculated with the help of the following simple rule:
Isc = In x 100/Z
where,
Isc
- short-circuit current ( A )
In
- rated current of the transformer (Full load current)
Z
- percentage impedance of the transformer
The rated current of the transformer is calculated as follows:
In = S x 1000 /3 x Ue
S = rating of transformer in kVA
Ue = rated voltage at the low tension side in Volts
e.g. :
A transformer with S = 1000 kVA, Z = 5% and Ue = 415 V
In = 1000 kVA x 1000 / 3 x 415 V = 1393 A
Isc = 1393 A x 100 / 5 = 27860 A
In this example, the short-circuit current close to the transformer is ~28 kA. The
breaking capacity of the MCCB installed at this point must be higher than this
value. This is applicable if a high breaking capacity MCCB with an ultimate shortcircuit breaking capacity Icu = 35 kA or 50 kA is used here. It is immaterial whether
the simple formula used above is sufficiently accurate or not. The selected circuit
breaker will have enough capacity in reserve.
The short-circuit current calculated above can also be read out from the table
Rated and short-circuit currents of 3-phase standard transformers (refer to
page 30).

29

Determination of the Fault Current

at Transformer Terminal
Rated and Short-circuit Currents of 3-phase Standard Transformers at Secondary Terminal.
Transformer Rating (kVA)

Rated Current (A)

at full load current

Short-circuit Current (A)

at secondary terminal

50

70

1391

100

139

2782

160

223

4452

200

278

5565

250

348

6956

315

448

8765

400

556

11130

500

696

13912

600

836

16714

700

975

19500

800

1115

22286

900

1254

25072

1000

1393

27860

1250

1741

34820

1500

2089

41780

2000

2786

55720

2500

3482

69640

3000

4179

83580

Secondary rated voltage = 415V AC; percentage impedance of transformer Z = 5%

30

source

fault current at
fault junction

Calculation of the Short-circuit Current in a Supply System

In a supply system, the further away from the transformer, the higher the
impedance. As such, the lower the value is for the short-circuit current. Each length
of conductor or device in the circuit provides an impedance which reduces the
short-circuit current. To calculate the maximum level possibility of the short-circuit
current, all the impedances lying between the transformer and the MCCB must be
considered, be it with formula or simple diagram.
Rapid Determination of Fault Currents
The following monogram provides a simple method of determining the fault
current at any distance of cable from a transformer. To determine the fault current
at the end of a line through monogram for a cable with a cross section of 3 x 95
mm2 and at a length of 60 m is as follows:
The upstream ( source ) fault current, e.g. 50 kA,
e.g. If, length of cable = 60 m
Cable cross section = 3 x 95 mm2
Fault current at source = 50 kA

It may be noted that a 100kA

fault at upstream side can be
reduced to a mere 5kA level
at the end of a 150m long 70
sq.mm cable.

Then, from the 80 m column in Table C, follow towards the cable size, and then
down to Table D to the upstream fault current, at the intersection reads the current
value, that is 12 kA.

Length of Cable (m)

1.2

Copper Cable Cross-section (mm2)

Table C

4
6

1.5
10

2.5
4

1.5
2.5

10

1.5
2.5

1.5

16

25

16

35

25

50

35

25

16

10

12

70

50

35

25

16

15

95

70

50

35

25

16

20

120

95

70

50

35

25

30

120

95

70

50

35

25

16

45

185

150

10

4
6

16

2.5
4

10

4
6

4
6

10
16

10

120

95

70

50

35

25

60

150

120

95

70

50

35

80

185

150

120

70

50

35

95
120

120

95

70

50

120

95

70

6.4

4.85

4.47

150

Upstream Fault Current (kA)

Table D

1.5
2.5

Short-circuit Current (415V)

10

9.9

9.7

9.6

15

14.6

14

13.7

13

20

19

18

17

15.6

25

2.2

21.4

20

17.6

30

27

24

22

50

39

32

27.7

60

43

34

70

47

36

100

53

38

9.3

8.6

7.8

12

11

9.6

7.3

5.2

4.75

14.4

12.8

10

9.0

7.7

5.35

4.85

16

13.8

11.1

9.3

7.9

5.4

4.9

19.2

17

14.6

11.5

9.5

8.0

5.45

4.95

22

19.2

15.8

12

9.8

8.2

5.5

29

23

19.6

16

12.2

9.9

8.25

5.5

30

23.5

20

16.2

12.3

10

8.3

5.5

32

24

20

16.4

12.5

10

8.3

5.5

31

Protection for Generators

Frequency 50Hz - Voltage 400V
Rated Power of
Alternator (kVA)

Rated Current of
Alternator (A)

Rated Current of
Circuit Breaker (A)

630

909

1250

710

1025

1250

800

1155

1250

900

1299

1600

1000

1443

1600

1120

1617

2000

1250

1804

2000

1400

2021

2500

1600

2309

2500

1800

2598

3200

2000

2887

3200

2250

3248

4000

2500

3608

4000

2800

4041

5000

3150

4547

5000

3500

5052

6300

Rated Power of
Alternator (kVA)

Rated Current of
Alternator (A)

Rated Current of
Circuit Breaker (A)

760

975

1250

850

1091

1250

960

1232

1250

1080

1386

1600

1200

1540

1600

1344 - 1350

1724 - 1732

2000

1500

1925

2000

1650 - 1680 - 1700

2117 - 2155 - 2181

2500

1920 - 1900

2463 - 2438

2500

2160 - 2150

2771 - 2758

3200

2400

3079

3200

2700

3464

4000

3000

3849

4000

3360

4311

5000

3780

4850

5000

4200

5389

6300

Frequency 60Hz - Voltage 450V

32

Protection of Motor by Breakers

The IEC standard classifies the coordination of the breaker and contactor into
the following 3 categories for damages on the contactor when a fault occurs on
the load side:
Category A coordination is when the magnetic contactor is damaged to the
extent that it will require replacement. Other major components
may also require replacement or complete assembly.
Category B coordination is when repair requirements are only to the
component parts, due to welding of contacts or melting of the
thermal relay heater.
Category C a perfect coordination is achieved when no damages are
sustained by the contactor.
Coordination with Wiring
The wiring leading to the motor should be installed in accordance with
international standards requirements.
Coordination with Thermal Overload Relay
In a system arrangement with a MCCB, contactor and thermal overload relay,
the MCCB long time delay must exceed that of the thermal overload relays curve.
This is important when any overload on the motor occurs, the thermal overload
relay is able to operate instead of the MCCB.
In case of a short-circuit or heavy overload such as a locked rotor, where the
current may reach 5 to 7 times the motor rated current, the protection is then taken
over by the MCCB.
Coordination with Motor Starting Current
Motors with starting times of 15s or less are generally considered safe, while
those with starting times of longer than 15s are considered undesirable for any
standard motors. Motors with starting times longer than 30s are considered
dangerous and should be avoided altogether.
Selection Principle
1. The MCCB current rating should be higher than the motor full load current.
2. The motor starting current and starting time should be below the minimum
time/current curve of the MCCB. A margin of about 50% should be allowed for
the starting time to allow for the voltage drop or increase of a mechanical load
friction.
3. The MCCB magnetic trip current should be 1.4 to 1.7 times the motor rated
starting current ( lock-rotor current).
4. For star- delta or auto-transformer starters, the MCCB magnetic trip should be
at least 2 to 2.4 times the motor rated starting current (or lock-rotor current).

33

Selection Guide
Capacitance Load
The capacitors must be able to withstand a continuous overload of 30% due
to the harmonic currents. As a result, the circuit breaker must be derated b 30%.
Capacitor

Circuit Breaker

Capacity (kVAr)

Current at Capacity (A)

Rating (A)

12.5

18

25

20

29

40

30

44

63

50

72

100

75

110

160

90

132

200

120

173

250

150

216

320

190

274

400

225

324

500

300

433

630

Impedance in 3-phase Capacity

(converted to 1000kVA standard capacity)

Average Impedance in
3-phase Transformer

Trans.
Cap
(kVA)

% Impedance
of Trans.
Zt (%)

% Impedance
of Motor
Zm (%)

Total % if
Impedance
of Power Source
ZA (%)

50

33.4 + j37.8

82.2 + j493.2

28.98 + j36.33

75

21.6 + j31.47

54.8 + j328.8

18.28 + j29.39

100

16.0 + j24.8

41.1 + j24.8

13.46 + j23.03

150

10.0 + j18.07

27.4 + j164.4

8.341 + j16.57

200

7.4 + j13.8

20.55 + j123.3

6.161 + j12.64

300

4.8 + j10.9

13.7 + j82.2

3.914 + j9.773

500

2.56 + j7.62

8.22 + j49.32

2.064 + j6.696

750

1.68 + j6.16

5.48 + j32.88

1.327 + j5.266

1000

1.22 + j5.21

4.11 + j24.66

0.957 + j4.372

1500

0.773 + j3.99

2.74 + j16.44

0.607 + j3.278

Impedance (%)

Transformer
Capacity
(kVA)

%R

%X

50

1.67

1.89

75

1.62

2.36

100

1.60

2.48

150

1.50

2.71

200

1.48

2.76

300

1.44

3.27

500

1.28

3.81

750

1.26

4.62

1000

1.22

5.21

1500

1.16

5.99

2000

1.14

6.07

where

2000

0.57 + j3.035

2.055 + j12.33

0.449 + j25

34

Zs =

Impedance of Power Source

Za =

(Zs + Zt) Zm
Zs + Zt + Zm

Selection Guide
Impedance of Electric Cable
Resistance

Reactance Xw (m/m)

Cable
(mm2)

Rw
(m/m)

1.6 mm

50Hz

60Hz

2-core,
3-core

single core,
closed

single core
6cm distance

2-core,
3-core

single core,
closed

single core
6cm distance

8.92

0.103

0.143

0.287

0.123

0.182

0.344

2.0 mm

5.65

0.097

0.134

0.273

0.116

0.161

0.327

2.6 mm

3.35

0.096

0.127

0.256

0.115

0.152

0.308

9.24

0.100

0.138

0.279

0.020

0.167

0.335

3.5

5.20

0.092

0.126

0.261

0.110

0.152

0.314

5.5

3.33

0.092

0.120

0.247

0.110

0.145

0.297

2.31

0.092

0.116

0.236

0.110

0.140

0.283

14

1.30

0.088

0.111

0.218

0.106

0.134

0.261

22

0.824

0.086

0.105

0.204

0.104

0.127

0.245

30

0.623

0.083

0.091

0.195

0.100

0.122

0.234

38

0.487

0.083

0.098

0.187

0.100

0.118

0.225

50

0.378

0.081

0.095

0.178

0.097

0.115

0.214

60

0.303

0.079

0.092

0.172

0.095

0.111

0.206

80

0.230

0.078

0.087

0.173

0.094

0.107

0.196

100

0.180

0.076

0.086

0.155

0.092

0.104

0.186

125

0.144

0.076

0.087

0.148

0.091

0.106

0.178

150

0.118

0.075

0.084

0.142

0.090

0.101

0.170

200

0.092

0.073

0.084

0.134

0.089

0.101

0.161

250

0.072

0.073

0.082

0.126

0.087

0.099

0.151

325

0.057

0.072

0.080

0.118

0.086

0.097

0.142

400

0.045

0.079

0.112

0.095

0.134

500

0.037

0.078

0.105

0.094

0.216

NOTE: The resistance values are based on JIS C3307 660V grade polyvinyl chloride insulated and vinyl sheathed cable (w).
The reactance value L = 0.05 + 0.4605 log10 D/r (m/H/km)
(D = core center to center distance, then Xw = 2. fl x 10 -3 (m/m), f = frequency was calculated).

35

Selection Guide
Impedance of Bus Duct (Zb)
Rated Current
(A)

Resistance
(m/m)

400

Reactance (m/m)
50Hz

60Hz

0.158

0.039

0.046

600

0.127

0.033

0.039

800

0.085

0.024

0.028

1000

0.065

0.018

0.022

1200

0.053

0.014

0.017

1500

0.041

0.012

0.014

2000

0.025

0.014

0.017

2500

0.020

0.013

0.016

3000

0.017

0.011

0.013

Comparison of Different Methods of Starting

Method of
Starting

Current (I)

Torque (T)

Ist/Idol

Ist/In

Tst/Tdol

Tst/Tn

Direct-on-line

4-8

1 - 1.15

Star-delta

0.33

1.32 - 2.64

0.33

0.33 - 0.49

Auto transformer 50%

0.28

1.12 - 2.24

0.25

0.25 - 0.37

Auto transformer 60%

0.39

1.56 - 3.12

0.36

0.36 - 0.54

Auto transformer 75%

0.59

2.36 - 4.72

0.56

0.56 - 0.84

Rheostat, severity 0.7

0.7

0.7

0.5

0.5

Rheostat, severity 1.4

1.4

1.4

Rheostat, severity 2.0

1.4

1.4

36

Selectivity
What is Selectivity?
Selectivity between 2 protective devices in series, such as the MCCB1
& MCCB2, is also called discrimination. The purpose of selectivity is to
coordinate the 2 circuit breakers in cascade, eg. A and B (see diagram). This
means only the B breaker trips in case of fault occurring at C and a
continuous supply of power to the remaining loads through the A breaker.

Diagram 1

Total and Partial Selectivity (Diagram 1 & 2)

Total selectivity between A & B breakers is when fault occurs at C, up to
the prospective short circuit current of the B breaker, and only when the B
breaker is tripped while the A breaker remains untrip.
Partial selectivity between A & B breakers is when the B breaker trips but
the A breaker does not, but only for fault currents lower than the maximum
prospective short circuit currents that may occur in the line connected to
the B breaker. For a higher fault current, up to the maximum prospective
short circuit current of the breaker B, both B & A breakers may trip
together.

Diagram 2

Selectivity Techniques (Diagram 3)

There are two techniques for ensuring selectivity:
1. Current selectivity
2. Time selectivity
These 2 techniques are effected intervening in the operation of the
breaker of setting the tripping current (Im) & the tripping time delay (Tm).

Diagram 3

Diagram 4

Current Selectivity
This technique is commonly used in low tension switchboards,
achievable by adjusting the tripping unit current setting. For 2 breakers in
series, the pick-up current on the upstream breaker is set to a value higher
than the prospective short circuit current at the point of the fault junction of
the down stream breaker.
This selectivity technique is used particularly for links between main
boards and secondary boards.
Time Selectivity (Diagram 4)
This time selectivity technique requires the selectivity circuit breaker
a breaker with an adjustable time trip device:
Time delay with adjustable unit in the breaker tripping system
The breaker must be able to withstand the thermal & electrodynamic
effect of the short circuit current for the period of the time delay.

37

LKEs Low & Medium Voltage

Range of Products

LK-GLBS
SF6 Load Break Switch

LK-VB1
Vacuum Circuit Breaker

LK-LTPM
SF6 Ring Main Unit

LK-LBS
Compressed Air
Load Break
Switch

LK-LTHO
SF6 Pole-Mounted
Switch Disconnector

LK-VLBS
Vacuum
Load
Break
Switch
LK-CUBIC
Low Voltage
Switchboard

LK-ATS
Auto Transfer
Switch

LK-LCA
Compressed Air
Ring Main Unit

LK-LCA
SF6 Ring Main Unit

LK-ACB
Air Circuit Breaker

LK-MCCB, LH-MX, LK-SF, LK-RCCB

Low Voltage Circuit Breakers

capacity of products range from 380VAC 36kV and rated current from 5A 6300A

OPTIMAL SOLUTIONS
SUPERIOR QUALITY
I N S TA N T D E L I V E R Y
ALL ROUND SERVICE

As standards, applications and designs may change

from time to time, please contact our nearest agent for
the latest information. For further technical references,
please refer to the respective product catalogue.

LK-Electric Co Pte Ltd

Blk 219 Henderson Industrial Park
#06-03 Henderson Rd, 159546 SINGAPORE
telephone 65 271 5388
facsimile 65 271 5088

LKE Electric (M) Sdn Bhd

1 & 3 Jalan SS13/3C, Subang Jaya Industrial Estate
47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor D.E., MALAYSIA
telephone 603 5633 7010/7011
facsimile 603 5633 8368, 5632 3014

LK-Electric (Zhuhai) Co Ltd

No 4, North of Industrial Area Xiangzhou
Zhuhai, 519000 P.R. of CHINA
telephone 86 756 226 7005
facsimile 86 756 226 7007

CUBIC Electric (Shanghai) Co Ltd

18th Floor, No 159 Handan Road
Shanghai, 200437 P.R. of CHINA
telephone 86 21 6555 7237
facsimile 86 21 6555 7119

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Egestubben 16-26
DK 5270, Odense, DENMARK
telephone 45 63 18 1560
facsimile 45 63 18 1590

info@lke-electric.com
www.lke-electric.com

Printed in Malaysia 05/2002