Part of the Quicklag family, the Eaton BAB2040 is a 40-amp, two-pole miniature circuit breaker designed for robust electrical distribution. It provides standard thermal-magnetic protection for residential, commercial, and industrial environments. This bolt-on unit installs seamlessly into Eaton Pow-R-Line, Westinghouse, and Bryant panelboards. It also serves as a replacement for legacy QNBL and QBHW2040 breakers, ensuring backward compatibility for older systems.
Can I install the BAB2040 in a standard residential load center?
No. The BAB2040 is a bolt-on miniature circuit breaker designed for commercial and industrial panelboards, such as Eaton Pow-R-Line models. Most standard residential load centers require plug-on breakers like type BR or CH.
Which Eaton Pow-R-Line panelboards accept this breaker?
The BAB2040 is compatible with several Eaton Pow-R-Line panelboards, specifically the PRL1a, PRL2a, PRL1X, and PRL2X series that are configured for bolt-on branch breakers.
Is this circuit breaker suitable for HVAC equipment?
Yes. The BAB2040 is HACR rated, meaning it is certified for safely operating heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment.
Will this Eaton breaker replace an older Westinghouse or Cutler-Hammer BAB breaker?
Yes. Eaton acquired the Westinghouse and Cutler-Hammer distribution equipment lines. The BAB2040 is an exact, direct replacement for older Westinghouse, Bryant, and Cutler-Hammer breakers bearing the same catalog number.
Does the BAB2040 replace a QBHW2040 breaker?
It physically fits the same panel spaces, but there is a difference in the short circuit rating. The BAB2040 is rated for 10kAIC, while the QBHW2040 is rated for 22kAIC. You can only substitute the BAB2040 if your specific system fault current requirement is 10kA or lower.
What is the advantage of a bolt-on connection for this breaker?
Bolt-on circuit breakers provide a highly secure, mechanical connection to the panelboard bus bar. This prevents the breaker from vibrating loose over time, ensuring a safe and reliable connection in heavy commercial and industrial applications.
How does the thermal-magnetic trip function protect my circuit?
The thermal mechanism provides a delayed response to prevent overheating from long-term overloads. The magnetic mechanism trips instantaneously to stop power flow during severe short circuits, protecting the wiring and equipment from catastrophic damage.
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Reviews
Review summary
Customers rate this product 4.9 out of 5 based on 164 reviews.
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Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars
Based on 164 reviews
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Reviews Summary
Generated by AI from 100 most recent customer reviews
Last updated 6/19/26
Customers say these breakers function as intended and arrive quickly. Fast shipping is consistently mentioned across reviews, with many noting timely delivery and secure packaging. Customers appreciate competitive pricing and the availability of items in stock. Products arrive in good condition, well-packaged, and work properly upon installation. Common feedback addresses responsive customer service and reliable order fulfillment. Most customers report smooth purchasing experiences and indicate they will return for future orders.
We placed our first order with superbreakers.com recently for a breaker we weren't able to acquire locally. I ordered the breaker way ahead of time because I've had issues with shipping for products purchased online in the past. The estimate for the item when I initially ordered was 3 days. Without adding an expedited shipping options, the breaker arrived the next day. We installed it this week, and so far so good. In my opinion, they sell quality parts and have excellent turn around time. Very impressed.