Breaker as a switch

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Jeff Rae

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A contractor has instaled a shunt-trip breaker that feeds an elevator. The breaker is used to turn the elevator on and off. Shouldn't this be a switched breaker and what code covers this????
 
Part of the function of circuit breakers is to act as "on-off" switches. In some cases all that is needed is a lock-off kit to meet the needs of a lockable disconnect for motors.

Or are you talking about them needing to be a switching duty breaker (i.e. those listed as SWD)? The SWD switching duty rating applies only to 1P 15A and 20A breakers which control lighting circuits. The SWD label indicates they are rated for controlling tungsten and ballast lighting loads(similar to a normal "light" switch).
 
Breakers are often used as switches. Per the testing requirements of UL 489 breakers must be designed to pass a series of tests which include a minimum number of load an no-load operations, i.e. endurance tests. Usually the larger the breaker the lower the number of operations.
For example the reference that I have includes:
Breakers 0-100a, 6000FL, and 4000NL @ 6/min.
101-225a, 4000 and 4000 @5/min.
226-600a, 1000 and 5000 @ 4/min, etc.
Also, the life of any accessories must also comply.
Incidentally, for 120v and 277v breakers for the switching and protection of fluorescent lamp loads there are additional requirements which include a 3001 operation test followed by temperature tests at various prescribed intervals. NEMA AB3 does define the application as I recall.
 
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Jeff, see 240.83(D) to see the requirement Jim spoke of.

See 620.51 to see the requirements for the disconnecting means for an elevator. I don't see a violation either, but I'm not an elevator guru. :)
 
Jeff,

My two cents on the matter, The shunt trip breaker will really not be used

unless someone is servicing the elevator or the shunt is triped by an emg.

device. Same as any other motor per se.
 
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