Breakered Neutral for International Application

[carl.arnsdorff]

I have an application that is used both in the US and worldwide. It is a 230VAC circuit.

For the US I installed a 20A double pole breaker for the L-L 240VAC power in the US.

However, in other parts of the world this is a L-N configuration. Due to other issues with the power we are considering using a transformer to create the same L-N configuration to the equipment.

The question is do I need to change the breaker for the L-N configuration or is it acceptable to have a 2 pole (tied) circuit breaker which will break both the Line and Neutral if either side trips?

 

[chris kennedy]

I can't understand why you would need to open the grounded conductor but you can.

240.22 Grounded Conductor.

No overcurrent device shall be connected in series with any conductor that is intentionally grounded, unless one of the following two conditions is met:

(1) The overcurrent device opens all conductors of the circuit, including the grounded conductor, and is designed so that no pole can operate independently.

(2) Where required by 430.36 or 430.37 for motor overload protection.

 

[brother]

I can't understand why you would need to open the grounded conductor but you can.

I cant recall the article right off hand, but isn't there a requirement to open the 'grounded' conductor in gas stations or hazardous areas?? I thought I read that somewhere.

 

[jim dungar]

The OP is asking if breaking the 'neutral' is allowed in Europe.
When installed under the auspices of the NEC, the OP stated the 2P breaker will be breaking (2) hot legs.

 

[LarryFine]

The question is do I need to change the breaker for the L-N configuration or is it acceptable to have a 2 pole (tied) circuit breaker which will break both the Line and Neutral if either side trips?

I believe it's perfectly acceptable.

 

[carl.arnsdorff]

That's the answer I was hoping for but wanted to make sure.

 

[dbuckley]

Confirming; as long as both poles open together then L/N switching is fine.

Double pole switching is quite common in the UK.

Just a reminder that a USA 240V circuit is 120V with respect to ground, its 240V with respect to ground in the 240V world.

If you are building something that needs to be certified for European use you can get 'tri-rated' wire that is acceptable to American, Canadian and European authorities.

 

[frenchelectrican]

Simauir way in France we have no issue with double pole switching device as well.

Just make sure they are EU { European Union } approved there are few markings they will be using.

Merci,Marc

 

[charlie b]

There are panelboards specifically designed to have two pole breakers serve single phase, 120 volt loads, with each breaker switching one ungrounded conductor and one neutral conductor. They are used onboard oil tankers and some other vessels. In certain hazardous areas of these types of ships, Coast Guard and international regulations require switching the neutrals.