high amp vs low amp disconnect operator

[kchap]

I am working on an Industrial Control Panel with a FLA of around 200 Amps, with a 300 Amp K-frame breaker on the feeder circuit. The flange-mount operator adapter for the breaker is made for use with a K-frame breaker. As such, the handle's mounting dimensions are larger than what is provided on a standard flange-mount disconnect enclosure. My Allen-Bradley vendor suggested an alternative "universal" operator adapter kit with a 200 Amp handle. I am hesitant to pursue this option until I get more information. My question is regarding code and whether it addresses which handle may be required for the 300 Amp breaker ("low" 200 Amp vs "high" 400 Amp). If the NEC does address this, could someone tell me where to look? Thanks!

 

[Jraef]

There is no amp rating on an external handle operator.

But the handle will be listed with a specific operating mechanism that attaches to the breaker and that mechanism will be listed for use with specific breaker frames. So if the mechanism is not listed for the 400A frame breaker you are using it on, then it is not “suitable for the intended use” and would be a violation of 110.3B

 

[petersonra]

I am working on an Industrial Control Panel with a FLA of around 200 Amps, with a 300 Amp K-frame breaker on the feeder circuit. The flange-mount operator adapter for the breaker is made for use with a K-frame breaker. As such, the handle's mounting dimensions are larger than what is provided on a standard flange-mount disconnect enclosure. My Allen-Bradley vendor suggested an alternative "universal" operator adapter kit with a 200 Amp handle. I am hesitant to pursue this option until I get more information. My question is regarding code and whether it addresses which handle may be required for the 300 Amp breaker ("low" 200 Amp vs "high" 400 Amp). If the NEC does address this, could someone tell me where to look? Thanks!

The operator adaptor has nothing to do with the rating of the CB. It has to do with the size of the cutout for the operator in the enclosure..

The "universal" cutout is bigger than the "preferred" cutout. The operator adaptor comes from the enclosure manufacturer.