Single‑phase motors up to 2 kW, small air compressors, refrigeration units, water pumps, and HVAC fan coils — these are the loads that benefit from a 2‑pole K curve breaker. The ABB S202‑K16 provides both line and neutral switching for 230 V circuits, with the high magnetic threshold (128 A, 8 × 16 A) that keeps nuisance tripping at bay during motor starts.

Why Two Poles?
For a 230 V single‑phase circuit (live + neutral), a 2‑pole breaker switches both conductors. This is often required by local wiring regulations for circuits supplying fixed appliances, and it is essential for isolation where the neutral must be considered a live conductor. In TN‑S and TN‑C‑S systems, the neutral is bonded to earth at the supply point but can still carry fault currents. Switching both poles ensures complete disconnection.

K Curve Characteristics
The K characteristic is defined in DIN VDE 0660 for motor control circuits. The 8×In magnetic threshold (128 A for this 16 A device) allows motors to start without tripping, while the thermal overload remains sensitive enough to protect the motor from sustained overcurrent. For a typical single‑phase induction motor with a locked‑rotor current of around 80–100 A, the S202‑K16 rides through the start without complaint.

Electrical and Mechanical Specs
The S202‑K16 occupies 35 mm width (2 modules) on a 35 mm DIN rail. It is rated for 230/400 V AC and 125 V DC. Breaking capacity is 6 kA (Icn per IEC/EN 60898-1). Terminals accept solid conductors up to 25 mm² or stranded up to 16 mm², torque 2.8 N·m. Operating temperature –25 °C to +55 °C. Mechanical and electrical endurance: 20,000 cycles each. The red‑green contact indicator provides clear visual feedback.

Installation Context
Mounts directly onto 35 mm DIN rail per EN 60715. The device can be fed from top or bottom. For motor circuits, the breaker should be selected with a full‑load current (FLC) at or above the motor nameplate rating. The 16 A rating typically suits motors with a FLC of 12–14 A. Always verify that the downstream cable is sized for 16 A (typically 2.5 mm² copper, depending on installation method).

Accessories and Compatibility
The S202‑K16 is compatible with the full S200 series accessory range, including auxiliary contacts (S2C‑S/H6R), shunt trips, undervoltage releases, and comb‑type busbars. Bottom‑fitting auxiliary contacts can save 50 % of panel space compared to side‑mounted alternatives.

Compliance and Origin
Manufactured in Germany. Complies with IEC/EN 60898-1 and IEC/EN 60947-2. UL 1077 recognized. RoHS compliant, SVHC‑free. EAN: 4016779507417.