Why the iC60N 1P C16 Belongs on Your Replacement Shortlist
Downtime rarely announces itself. A single-pole branch circuit trips, a panel goes dark, and production stops while your team hunts for a compatible replacement. The iC60N 1P C16 from Schneider Electric solves that problem directly: it is an active, in-production miniature circuit breaker from the Acti9 iC60 series, built for 35 mm DIN rail mounting and rated for 16A at 230/400V AC. This buyer’s guide walks through the specifications, applications, and selection checks you need before you commit to a purchase.
What This Acti9 iC60 Device Actually Is
The iC60N 1P C16 is a single-pole (1P) miniature circuit breaker with a C-curve thermal-magnetic trip unit. The magnetic trip operates at 8×In ±20%, which means it tolerates brief inrush currents before reacting to a genuine fault. Schneider Electric rates the breaking capacity at 6 kA at 230/400V under IEC 60898-1, and the device also conforms to EN/IEC 60947-2. It carries a rated voltage of 230/400V AC and 125V DC. Because the lifecycle status is Active within the Acti9 range, you can standardize on it rather than chase obsolete substitutes.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Poles | 1P |
| Rated current | 16A |
| Trip curve | C (thermal-magnetic, magnetic trip 8×In ±20%) |
| Breaking capacity | 6 kA @ 230/400V (IEC 60898-1) |
| Rated voltage | 230/400V AC, 125V DC |
| Standard | EN/IEC 60898-1, EN/IEC 60947-2 |
| Operating temperature | -35 to 70 °C |
| Mounting | 35 mm DIN rail |
| Mechanical life | 20,000 cycles |
| Electrical life | 10,000 cycles |
| Dimensions (H×W×D) | 85 × 18 × 78.5 mm |
| Weight | 0.125 kg |
Reading the Specs Like a Buyer
Three numbers matter most during replacement. First, the 16A rating and C-curve profile tell you this device suits resistive and mildly inductive loads rather than heavy motor starts. Second, the 6 kA breaking capacity defines the maximum fault current it can safely interrupt at 230/400V, so verify your panel’s prospective fault level stays within that limit. Third, the 20,000 mechanical and 10,000 electrical cycle ratings give you a realistic service-life benchmark for maintenance planning.
Where the iC60N 1P C16 Fits
Commercial distribution boards. A 16A C-curve breaker protects lighting and socket circuits where modest inrush is normal. The 1P footprint keeps panel space efficient.
Industrial control panels. With a -35 to 70 °C operating range, this device handles the temperature swings common in plant rooms and unheated enclosures.
DC auxiliary circuits. The 125V DC rating supports selected control and auxiliary supply applications, giving you one part number across AC and DC duties.
Installing and Integrating the Device
Mount the breaker on a standard 35 mm DIN rail. Confirm the circuit’s voltage and current align with the 230/400V AC or 125V DC rating before energizing. Keep the enclosure within the -35 to 70 °C operating window, and allow space for the 85 × 18 × 78.5 mm body plus wiring clearance. Because the unit weighs only 0.125 kg, rail loading is minimal. Follow your local wiring regulations and the manufacturer’s documentation for all connection work.
Reliability and Maintenance Planning
Inspect periodically for loose terminals, discoloration, or mechanical wear. The 20,000 mechanical and 10,000 electrical cycle ratings give you a clear replacement horizon based on switching frequency. In high-cycle panels, log operations so you can plan swaps before nuisance trips appear. The wide operating temperature range reduces environmental derating concerns in most indoor installations.
Compatibility and Selection Checks
This breaker is part of the Schneider Acti9 iC60 series, so it shares the family’s 35 mm DIN rail mounting convention. Before ordering, verify pole count (1P), rated current (16A), trip curve (C), and breaking capacity (6 kA at 230/400V) against your existing installation. Check that your panel’s fault level does not exceed the 6 kA rating. If you need a different current rating or pole configuration, confirm the exact variant rather than assuming cross-compatibility. SpareTechPLC stocks this active model and can confirm availability for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iC60N 1P C16 still in production?
Yes. The lifecycle status is Active within the Acti9 range, last verified 2026-09.
What load types suit a C-curve 16A breaker?
The C-curve magnetic trip at 8×In ±20% tolerates moderate inrush, making it suitable for mixed resistive and mildly inductive circuits.
Can I use it on DC circuits?
Yes, within the rated 125V DC limit stated in the specifications.
What is the maximum fault current it can interrupt?
6 kA at 230/400V, per IEC 60898-1.
How much panel width does it need?
The body measures 18 mm wide, 85 mm high, and 78.5 mm deep, mounting on 35 mm DIN rail.
