Siemens BQCH3B040 Molded Case Circuit Breaker
- 40A
- 3 Pole
- Bolt-On
Quantity
Siemens BQCH3B040 - 40A 3 Pole Molded Case Circuit Breaker
Re-Certified
Quantity
Description
Engineered for commercial applications, this Siemens 40A molded case circuit breaker delivers reliable overcurrent protection. The three-pole unit is designed for integration into Siemens P1, P2, and P3 panelboards. Featuring a bolt-on mounting style, it establishes a secure connection. For facility managers upgrading older systems, this BQCH series unit is commonly replaced by the newer BQD340 model.Specifications
| Brand | Siemens |
|---|---|
| Part Number | BQCH3B040-R |
| Series | BQCH |
| Amperage | 40A |
| Poles | 3 |
| Mounting Style | Bolt-On |
| Voltage | 240VAC, 480Y/277VAC |
| Phase | 3 |
| AIC Rating | 65kA @ 240VAC, 14kA @ 480Y/277VAC |
| Terminal Type | Lugs |
|---|---|
| For Use With | Siemens P1, P2, P3 Panelboards |
| Wire Gauge | 14-6 AWG (Cu), 12-6 AWG (Al) |
| Max Wire | 6 AWG (Cu), 6 AWG (Al) |
| Min Wire | 14 AWG (Cu), 12 AWG (Al) |
| Trip Technology | Thermal Magnetic |
|---|---|
| Trip Function Code | LI |
| Trip Function | Long-Time, Instantaneous |
| Trip Adjustability | Fixed Thermal, Fixed Magnetic |
| Available Options | Shunt Trip, Auxiliary Switch, Alarm Switch, Padlock Attachment |
|---|---|
| Accessories | Load Side Lugs |
| Standards | CSA C22.2 No. 5, HACR Rated, UL 489 |
| Approval | CSA, UL |
| Temp Rating | 40°C |
| Construction Features | HACR Rated, Common Trip, Non-Interchangeable Trip |
Product FAQs
7 answersWhich Siemens panelboards accept the BQCH3B040 circuit breaker?
This bolt-on breaker is designed for direct installation in Siemens P1, P2, and P3 commercial panelboards. It is not compatible with standard residential load centers that require plug-on QP series breakers.
Can the BQD340 be used as a replacement for the BQCH3B040?
Yes, the newer BQD340 is frequently used as a direct replacement for the BQCH3B040 in commercial panelboards. Both models share the same physical footprint, bolt-on mounting, and system compatibility.
What wire sizes are approved for the load side lugs on this 40A breaker?
The factory-installed lugs accept 14 to 6 AWG copper conductors or 12 to 6 AWG aluminum conductors. Always torque the terminals to the manufacturer specifications printed on the breaker label to prevent thermal issues under load.
How does the interrupting rating change based on system voltage?
The BQCH3B040 provides a 14kA interrupting capacity in 480V and 277V commercial systems. When installed in 240V applications, the interrupting capacity increases to 65kA. Always verify the available fault current at the panel before installation.
Does this breaker provide adjustable trip settings for coordination studies?
No, the BQCH3B040 features a fixed thermal magnetic trip unit with factory-set long-time and instantaneous functions. If your coordination study requires adjustable trip curves, you will need to specify a larger molded case frame with an electronic trip unit.
Can I install this BQCH breaker in an older ITE panelboard?
Many modern Siemens bolt-on breakers are backward compatible with legacy ITE panelboards, as Siemens acquired ITE and maintained the design footprint. You must verify the specific ITE panel label to ensure BQCH or BQD frame types are listed as approved replacements.
Is this breaker HACR rated for commercial HVAC equipment?
Yes, the BQCH3B040 carries an HACR rating. This makes it suitable for branch circuit protection of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment that requires this specific listing.
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