Description
EATON PL9-C16/2-DC – 2‑Pole DC Miniature Circuit Breaker for Control Panels, Battery Systems, and Solar Sub‑circuits
The EATON PL9-C16/2-DC is a compact, 2‑pole DC miniature circuit breaker designed for dependable protection of low-voltage direct-current circuits. From my experience, this model fits nicely in control cabinets where space is tight and 16 A lines need predictable C‑curve tripping. It’s typically used in battery strings, DC distribution in telecom racks (48–60 VDC), small PV combiner branches, and industrial DC auxiliaries. You might notice that it follows the familiar xPole modular format—so installation on a 35 mm DIN rail is quick and clean.
Order Placement Process and Guarantees
- Warranty: 365 days
- Delivery: 1 week if in stock; no more than 1 month latest
- Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
- Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL
Key Features
- DC-optimized, 2-pole protection: Built for direct-current circuits; two poles enable series wiring or separate pole protection in many cases.
- C-curve tripping (16 A): Balanced between nuisance-trip avoidance and fast fault clearing—suitable for mixed DC loads with moderate inrush.
- DIN-rail, modular footprint: Standard 35 mm DIN rail mounting with a 2TE width, which typically equals two 17.5 mm modules.
- Field-friendly terminals: Screw clamp terminals sized for panel wiring; line/load orientation is usually reversible to simplify layout.
- Panel compliance: Fits standard industrial enclosures and distribution boards; makes retrofits straightforward.
- Accessory-ready design: Compatible with typical auxiliary contacts, shunt trip, under-voltage release, and comb busbars used in xPole-type systems.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand / Model | EATON PL9-C16/2-DC |
| HS Code | 8536.20 (Automatic circuit breakers, ≤1000 V) |
| Rated Current / Trip Curve | 16 A, C-characteristic (DC) |
| Number of Poles | 2-pole (DC) |
| Power Requirements | Not powered (thermal-magnetic protective device) |
| Dimensions & Weight | Width: 2TE (~35 mm). Height/Depth follow standard xPole modular profile; weight is typically ~0.2 kg. |
| Operating Temperature | Typically −25 °C to +55 °C (derating may apply at higher ambient) |
| Signal I/O Types | N/A (line/load power terminals; optional auxiliaries for signaling) |
| Communication Interfaces | None (passive protective device) |
| Installation Method | 35 mm DIN rail (EN 60715), screw terminals; front-access reset |
Note: Max DC voltage and breaking capacity vary by wiring (e.g., per-pole vs. series-pole connection) and regional approvals. For safety-critical designs, confirm limits in the official datasheet for your application voltage.
Application Fields
- Battery energy storage and UPS DC distribution: Protect 16 A feeders or string taps; commonly 24/48/60 VDC.
- Telecom power racks: 48 VDC rectifier outputs and sub‑circuits where quick isolation is needed.
- Industrial DC controls: Solenoids, drives auxiliaries, and PLC/DC I/O auxiliaries with moderate inrush current.
- Small PV sub‑arrays: Branch circuit protection in lower-voltage DC combiner panels (confirm system voltage vs. pole configuration).
- Laboratory and test benches: Quick resettable protection for DC rails and prototypes.
One thing I appreciate is how predictable the C‑curve behavior is in mixed DC loads—installers tell us it reduces nuisance trips on coil loads while still clearing genuine faults quickly. A telecom integrator mentioned that swapping generic breakers for this PL9 variant cut down their service calls on 48 V racks.
Advantages & Value
- Reliability you can spec in: Stable tripping profile and proven xPole mechanics in most conditions.
- Compatibility with standard panels: 35 mm DIN rail mounting and 2TE width ease cabinet layout changes and expansions.
- Cost-effective protection: Reusable, resettable protection typically replaces fuses for many DC branches.
- Accessory ecosystem: Add auxiliary contacts, shunt-trip, or undervoltage release for remote signaling and interlock schemes.
- Procurement-friendly: Common rating (16 A, C curve) that’s usually available from stock with predictable lead times.
Installation & Maintenance
- Cabinet environment: Install in a clean, dry enclosure with ventilation; maintain ambient within the specified temperature range.
- DIN rail & wiring: Mount on EN 60715 35 mm DIN rail. Use appropriate DC-rated wire gauge and observe terminal torque per datasheet.
- Polarity and series wiring: For higher DC voltages, poles may be wired in series—follow Eaton’s DC wiring recommendations for maximum system voltage.
- Separation and clearances: Keep enough spacing for heat dissipation; consider derating at elevated ambient temperatures.
- Routine checks: Inspect terminal tightness periodically, remove dust buildup, and verify trip/reclose function during scheduled maintenance.
- Firmware/updates: Not applicable; this is a passive electromechanical device.
Quality & Certifications
- Conformity typically aligned with IEC/EN standards for miniature circuit breakers (e.g., IEC/EN 60898-1 and/or IEC/EN 60947-2, variant-dependent)
- CE marking; RoHS compliant in most regions
- UL/CSA recognition can be variant- and region-specific (verify for your market)
- Manufacturer’s warranty: 12 months (365 days)
Need help matching the DC voltage and breaking capacity to your exact setup? Share your system voltage, prospective fault level, and wiring plan (per-pole or series poles), and I’ll confirm the safe operating window and accessories you might want to include.
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