Square D BDA36100 Molded Case Circuit Breaker

This breaker is designed exclusively for Square D I-Line panelboards and switchboards. It uses a plug-on line-side jaw connection to snap directly onto the I-Line bus, while the load side utilizes traditional mechanical lugs.

Yes. The PowerPacT BDA36100 is the direct modern replacement for the legacy standard-interrupting FA36100 (F-Frame) breaker. It matches the original footprint, voltage limits, and ampacity. If you are replacing a high-interrupting FH36100, you will need the BGA36100 instead.

No fillers or spacer kits are required. PowerPacT B-Frame I-Line breakers share the exact same 1.5-inch per pole spacing as legacy F-Frame breakers. This 3-pole unit requires 4.5 inches of bus space, allowing for a seamless retrofit without leaving gaps on the deadfront.

The tightening torque for the mechanical load lugs depends on the wire gauge installed. For 14 to 10 AWG conductors, torque to 31.9 to 38.9 lb-in (3.6 to 4.4 N-m). For larger 8 to 2/0 AWG conductors, torque to 44.3 to 54.9 lb-in (5.0 to 6.2 N-m).

No, this specific model carries a standard 80% continuous current rating. Continuous loads applied for three hours or more should not exceed 80 amps (80% of its 100A nominal rating) in accordance with standard NEC guidelines.

No. The BDA36100 features a thermal-magnetic trip unit with fixed thermal (Long-Time) and fixed magnetic (Instantaneous) thresholds. If your application requires field-adjustable trip settings, you must upgrade to a model featuring a Micrologic electronic trip unit.

No. Because this is an I-Line breaker, the line side features shrouded plug-on jaws designed exclusively to receive power from the panelboard bus. It is not suitable for back-fed applications.

Yes. All PowerPacT breakers include an integral push-to-trip button on the front cover. This allows panel builders and electricians to manually trip the mechanism to verify mechanical operation and linkage prior to commissioning.