Square D KAL36175 Molded Case Circuit Breaker

The KAL36175 is part of the legacy K-Frame series and has been superseded by the modern PowerPacT J-Frame series. While original KAL breakers are often sourced to maintain existing equipment, new panelboard designs typically require a J-Frame equivalent.

If the terminal lugs are damaged or missing, you can install the Square D AL250KA mechanical lug kit. This standard field kit includes three replacement lugs designed for KAL frame breakers and accepts conductor sizes from 4 AWG to 350 kcmil for both aluminum and copper wire.

No, the KAL36175 is a unit-mount circuit breaker strictly designed for feed-thru connections using traditional wiring lugs. For a Square D I-Line panelboard, you will need a breaker equipped with an I-Line plug-on bracket, such as the equivalent PowerPacT J-Frame.

This heavy-duty molded case breaker is designed for installation in Square D QED switchboards, motor control centers, and standalone NEMA enclosures. You must verify that your specific enclosure provides the correct internal depth and mounting footprint for a legacy K-Frame profile.

Yes, the KAL36175 is rated for use in 250VDC systems with a 10kA interrupting capacity. This makes it suitable for specific industrial controls, battery backups, and renewable energy applications that require reliable DC overcurrent protection.

The LI designation signifies that the thermal-magnetic trip unit provides Long-Time (L) and Instantaneous (I) protection. The long-time thermal element guards against sustained overloads, while the instantaneous magnetic element trips the breaker immediately during a severe short circuit.

The KAL36175 features a fixed thermal overload setting alongside an adjustable magnetic trip mechanism. Electricians can adjust the magnetic trip threshold in the field to coordinate with downstream protective devices or to handle high temporary inrush currents from large motors.

The amount of fault current a breaker can safely interrupt depends heavily on the operating voltage of the electrical system. The KAL36175 can handle a 42kA fault at 240VAC, but the rating decreases to 25kA at 480VAC and 22kA at 600VAC. Always verify your specific system voltage to ensure adequate fault protection.