Is Your Single-Phase Circuit Truly Protected Against Both Overload and Inrush?
Many facility teams discover the answer the hard way. A motor start or a transformer energization trips a breaker that should hold. Or worse, a genuine fault goes uncleared. The Schneider iC60N 1P C32 solves both problems with a C-curve thermal-magnetic trip unit rated for 32 A. This Acti9 iC60 miniature circuit breaker protects one pole of a 230/400 V AC distribution circuit. It also carries a 125 V DC rating for control and auxiliary circuits.
What the iC60N 1P C32 Delivers
Schneider Electric built this device for panel builders and maintenance engineers who need predictable protection in a compact footprint. The single-pole module measures only 85 × 18 × 78.5 mm and weighs 0.125 kg. It snaps onto a standard 35 mm DIN rail. That narrow width lets you pack more outgoing ways into the same enclosure.
The C-curve trip characteristic is the key differentiator. The magnetic trip threshold sits at 8×In ±20%. In practical terms, the breaker tolerates short inrush currents from small motors, solenoids, and capacitive loads. It still clears short circuits quickly once the fault current exceeds that threshold. The thermal element handles sustained overloads in the traditional inverse-time manner.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Poles | 1P |
| Rated current | 32 A |
| Trip curve | C (thermal-magnetic, 8×In ±20%) |
| Breaking capacity | 6 kA @ 230/400 V (IEC 60898-1) |
| Rated voltage | 230/400 V AC, 125 V 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 |
Why the 6 kA Rating Matters
A 6 kA breaking capacity at 230/400 V covers the prospective short-circuit current in most commercial and light-industrial distribution boards. If your calculated fault level exceeds this value, you need upstream current limiting or a higher-rated device. Verify this before specification.
C-Curve Versus B-Curve
B-curve devices trip magnetically at 3–5×In and suit resistive loads. The C-curve on this model trips at 8×In ±20%, which reduces nuisance tripping on inductive loads. Choose the curve to match your load profile, not just the current rating.
Where This Breaker Fits
Replacement and upgrade projects. The Acti9 iC60 range remains in active production. That matters when you maintain older panels and need a drop-in single-pole device with known trip characteristics. A 32 A C-curve breaker commonly protects sub-circuits feeding small motors, pumps, and lighting distribution in commercial buildings.
Control panel auxiliary circuits. The 125 V DC rating lets the same device protect DC control circuits. This simplifies spares holding, because one part number covers both AC and DC duties within its ratings.
Light-industrial final distribution. Workshops and small production cells often run mixed loads. The C-curve absorbs motor inrush while the 6 kA rating handles the available fault energy at the final board.
Installation and Setup Guidance
Mount the device on a 35 mm DIN rail and confirm the rail is clean and undamaged. Check that the rated current and curve match the downstream cable and load. Torque terminations to the manufacturer’s specification, and verify conductor sizing against local wiring rules. Do not install this breaker where the ambient temperature falls outside -35 to 70 °C. Allow the specified clearances inside the enclosure for heat dissipation.
Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability
The iC60N 1P C32 carries a mechanical life of 20,000 cycles and an electrical life of 10,000 cycles. These figures assume correct loading and normal operating conditions. Inspect terminals periodically for looseness or discoloration. Exercise the handle during planned shutdowns to confirm free movement. Replace the device after any fault trip that shows evidence of arcing or contact damage. Keep spare units on the shelf so a failure does not stall a production line.
Compatibility and Sourcing
This breaker belongs to the Schneider Acti9 iC60 series, so it shares the DIN rail footprint and busbar accessories of that family. Confirm busbar compatibility with your existing panel before ordering. SpareTechPLC supplies this model and can confirm current availability. Please verify current lifecycle status and availability with SpareTechPLC before ordering.
Selection Checklist Before You Buy
Confirm four things: the pole count (1P), the rated current (32 A), the trip curve (C), and the breaking capacity (6 kA). Then check the rated voltage against your system. If your fault level or load profile differs, select a different variant rather than forcing this one into the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use this breaker on a DC circuit?
A: Yes, within its 125 V DC rating. Confirm your system voltage and polarity requirements before installation.
Q: What is the difference between this and a B-curve 32 A device?
A: The magnetic trip threshold. This C-curve unit trips at 8×In ±20%, so it tolerates higher inrush currents than a B-curve device.
Q: How many operations can I expect?
A: The data sheet states 20,000 mechanical cycles and 10,000 electrical cycles under normal conditions.
Q: Is this product still in production?
A: Yes. The Acti9 iC60 range is listed as active, last verified 2026-09.
Q: What DIN rail does it use?
A: A standard 35 mm DIN rail.
