Schneider ACB Guide: Masterpact MTZ & NT/NW for UAE Industries

Schneider Electric ACB: The Heart of Power Distribution

For industrial facilities, commercial towers, and data centers in the UAE, the Air Circuit Breaker (ACB) is the most critical component of the main distribution board (MDB). Schneider Electric's Masterpact range is the global benchmark for ACBs, known for reliability, connectivity, and advanced protection.

What is an ACB and Why Use It?

An ACB is a circuit breaker designed for high currents (typically 630A to 6300A). Unlike smaller MCCBs, ACBs use air as the arc-extinguishing medium and offer:

• Higher Breaking Capacity: Up to 150kA.
• Short-Time Withstand Current (Icw): Allows downstream breakers to trip first (discrimination).
• Maintenance: Internal parts are accessible and maintainable.
• Smart Protection: Advanced electronic trip units (Micrologic).

Schneider Masterpact Ranges

1. Masterpact MTZ (The Future Ready)

The latest generation, fully digital ACB.

• Ratings: 630A to 6300A (MTZ1, MTZ2, MTZ3).
• Connectivity: Built-in Class 1 metering, Ethernet, and Bluetooth/NFC.
• Smart: Customize functions via digital modules (downloadable apps).
• Durability: Designed for harsh environments (resists voltage fluctuations).
• Integration: Seamless with EcoStruxure Power software.

2. Masterpact NT (Compact)

The world's smallest true power circuit breaker.

• Ratings: 630A to 1600A.
• Size: Optimized for compact switchboards (fits in 400mm width).
• Application: Perfect for retrofit and space-constrained panels.

3. Masterpact NW (Robust)

The standard for high-current protection.

• Ratings: 800A to 6300A.
• Performance: High withstand ratings for selectivity.
• Versatility: Wide range of accessories and connection types.

The Brain: Micrologic Trip Units

Schneider ACBs are powered by Micrologic control units, available in different levels:

• Micrologic 2.0: Basic protection (LSI - Long time, Short time, Instantaneous).
• Micrologic 5.0: Selective protection with display (LSI).
• Micrologic 6.0: Selective + Ground Fault protection (LSIG).
• Micrologic 7.0: Selective + Earth Leakage protection.
• X versions (e.g., 5.0X): Advanced metering and power quality analysis.

Selection Guide for UAE Projects

When selecting a Schneider ACB for your Dubai or Abu Dhabi project, consider:

1. Current Rating (In): Total load calculation (e.g., 2500A for a mall MDB).
2. Breaking Capacity (Icu): Based on the fault level at the transformer secondary (usually 50kA, 65kA, or 100kA).
3. Selectivity: ensure the ACB waits for downstream MCCBs to trip first during a minor fault.
4. Communication: Do you need to monitor energy on a BMS? Choose MTZ with Ethernet.
5. Physical Size: MTZ1/NT for small spaces, MTZ2/MTZ3/NW for higher power.

Installation & Maintenance

• Draw-out vs. Fixed:
  • Draw-out (Withdrawable): Recommended. Allows the breaker to be racked out for maintenance without shutting down the busbar.
  • Fixed: Cheaper, but harder to service.
• Busbar Connection: Ensure proper torque and surface contact area to prevent hotspots.
• Testing: Secondary injection testing of the Micrologic unit is recommended annually.

Retrofit Solutions: Ecofit

Have an old Masterpact M on your site? PHOE Electricals can help upgrade it to a new Masterpact MTZ using Ecofit kits, without replacing the entire switchboard. This saves cost and downtime.

Why Source Schneider ACBs from PHOE?

• Technical Expertise: We help you select the exact Micrologic unit and accessories (coils, motor mechanisms).
• Genuine Products: Avoid counterfeit risks with authorized sourcing.
• Fast Support: We understand that MDBs are critical; our team responds quickly.
• Competitive Pricing: Best commercial terms for Masterpact MTZ and accessories.

Power your infrastructure with the world's best. Contact PHOE Electricals for Schneider Masterpact inquiries.