Purchase now: Schneider Electric GV2ME21 Motor Protection
Purchase now: Atlantech Drives provides you the Schneider Electric GV2ME21, the industry-standard **Motor Circuit Breaker** (MPCB) from the **TeSys GV2** (TeSys Deca) range. This 3-pole thermal-magnetic circuit breaker is specifically designed to control and protect electrical motors with a current draw between **17 A and 23 A**. It is the go-to solution for 3-phase motors rated approximately **9 kW to 11 kW** (at 400V), widely used in HVAC fans, pumps, and conveyor systems.
Technical Specifications and Push-Button Control
The GV2ME21 features a **Thermal Trip** element (adjustable via a dial for overload protection) and a **Magnetic Trip** element (fixed at approx. 13x In for short-circuit protection). It utilizes a robust **Push-Button** control mechanism (Start/Stop), which distinguishes the «ME» series from the rotary «P» series. It is designed to snap directly onto a 35mm DIN rail or screw mount onto a panel.
- Part Number: GV2ME21.
- Range: TeSys GV2 (Deca).
- Thermal Setting Range: 17…23 A.
- Magnetic Tripping Current: 327 A (approx).
- Motor Power: 9 kW / 11 kW @ 400/415V.
- Breaking Capacity (Icu): 15 kA @ 400V.
- Control Type: Push-button.
- Connection: Screw Clamp Terminals.
- Utilization Category: AC-3.
Expert Maintenance Tips: The «Test» Trip
Circuit breakers sit idle for months. Expert Tip: There is a small «Test» slot on the front face. We recommend actuating this with a small screwdriver during annual maintenance. This mechanically forces the breaker to trip, ensuring the internal spring mechanism has not seized up due to dust or lack of use. Also, re-tighten the screw terminals annually, as copper wires can «creep» under thermal cycling, leading to hotspots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use this for single-phase motors?
A: Yes, but you must wire the 3 poles in series (loop the phase through L1-T1, L2-T2, L3-T3) to ensure the thermal element sees current on all phases, preventing a nuisance «phase loss» trip.
Q: What is the difference between GV2ME and GV2P?
A: GV2ME uses push buttons and has a lower breaking capacity (typically 15kA at this rating). GV2P uses a rotary handle and has higher breaking capacity (50kA or more), offering better performance in high-fault currents.
Do you need more references from this brand? Explore our full catalog of Schneider Electric here.
