KPE-16 ABB K-Line Plus Air Circuit Breaker

Model: KPE-16
Brand: ABB
Product Series: K-Line Plus
Product Type: Low-Voltage Air Circuit Breaker
Breaker Design: Draw-out construction
Frame Rating: 1600 A
Maximum Thermal Rating: 1600 A
Rated System: Low-voltage AC power distribution
Breaker Configuration: Non-fused, extended-rated KPE series
Trip System: MPSC-2000 microprocessor-based trip system with RMS sensing
Short-Circuit Rating: Up to 65 kA at 240 V, 65 kA at 480 V and 50 kA at 600 V
Short-Time Rating: Up to 65 kA at 240 V, 65 kA at 480 V and 50 kA at 600 V
Manufacturer: ABB
Product Family: Legacy K-Line Plus circuit breakers

The KPE-16 ratings above follow ABB's K-Line Plus documentation and retrofit catalogue. Actual breaker configuration, trip settings and installed accessories should be verified against the unit's nameplate and original records.

Product Introduction

 

KPE-16 belongs to ABB's K-Line Plus family of low-voltage AC power circuit breakers. It is the 1600 A frame-size model in the extended-rated KPE series, intended for use in power distribution switchgear where high-current circuit switching and protection are required.

 

The K-Line Plus design uses a draw-out construction, allowing the breaker to be withdrawn from its switchgear position for inspection or replacement. The KPE series is distinguished from the standard KP series by its extended interrupting ratings, making the exact model designation important when identifying a replacement for an existing installation.

 

The KPE-16 has a 1600 A frame rating and a maximum thermal rating of 1600 A. ABB's published retrofit information lists the KPE-16 short-circuit ratings as 65 kA at 240 V AC, 65 kA at 480 V AC and 50 kA at 600 V AC. The corresponding short-time ratings are also listed as 65 kA, 65 kA and 50 kA at those respective voltages.

These values describe the documented breaker series rating, not necessarily the precise configuration of every used or refurbished unit. The actual continuous current capability and protective performance can depend on the installed current sensors, trip-unit configuration and other nameplate details. ABB's operating instructions specifically note that K-Line Plus breakers may be fitted with lower-rated current sensors and trip systems.

The K-Line Plus KP and KPE families use the MPSC-2000 microprocessor-based trip system with RMS sensing. Depending on the original breaker configuration, the mechanism may be manually operated or electrically operated. Control-power combinations and available options can vary between units. 

For replacement procurement, the frame designation alone is insufficient to confirm complete interchangeability. Check the trip system, current sensor rating, operating mechanism, control voltage and installed accessories against the existing KPE-16.

The draw-out arrangement is a key feature of the K-Line Plus platform. The breaker is designed to operate as part of a compatible switchgear assembly, so its physical interface and installed configuration matter as much as its current rating.

ABB's retrofit documentation identifies K-Line Plus equipment, including KPE-16, among the legacy breaker types for which cradle-in-cradle retrofit options are available. ABB lists an Emax 2 E2.2 retrofit option for the KPE-16 frame. This is a retrofit reference, not a statement that every E2.2 breaker can be installed as a direct replacement without checking the switchgear arrangement.

KPE-16 is a legacy K-Line Plus breaker. For maintenance teams managing older switchgear, identifying the original model and its installed options is an important first step when sourcing a replacement or evaluating a retrofit.

ABB continues to document retrofit options for K-Line and K-Line Plus equipment through its Electrification service resources. The available route depends on the existing switchgear, breaker configuration and project requirements.

The model designation KPE-16 identifies the extended-rated 1600 A breaker in the K-Line Plus series. It should not be confused with KP-16, which belongs to the standard non-fused KP series and has different published short-circuit and short-time ratings.

When ordering, use the complete KPE-16 designation and confirm the nameplate information, trip-system configuration, operating mechanism, control-power arrangement and switchgear interface.

What is the ABB KPE-16?

KPE-16 is a low-voltage AC air circuit breaker in ABB's K-Line Plus extended-rated series, with a 1600 A frame rating.

What is the frame rating of the KPE-16?

The KPE-16 has a 1600 A frame rating and a maximum thermal rating of 1600 A. The actual current-sensing and trip configuration should be checked on the individual breaker.

What are its short-circuit ratings?

ABB's retrofit catalogue lists 65 kA at 240 V AC, 65 kA at 480 V AC and 50 kA at 600 V AC for the KPE-16. Confirm the original equipment documentation for the specific breaker and installation.

What is the difference between KPE-16 and KP-16?

Both belong to the K-Line Plus family and have a 1600 A frame rating. KPE-16 is the extended-rated version, with higher listed interrupting ratings at 480 V and 600 V than the standard KP-16.

Is KPE-16 a draw-out breaker?

Yes. ABB's K-Line Plus operating instructions describe the KP and KPE breakers as draw-out low-voltage AC power circuit breakers.

Can KPE-16 be replaced by an ABB Emax 2 breaker?

ABB documents an Emax 2 E2.2 cradle-in-cradle retrofit option for KPE-16 installations. Suitability must be verified against the existing switchgear and retrofit requirements; this should not be assumed to be a universal direct replacement.

What should be checked before ordering a KPE-16 replacement?

Verify the full model designation, nameplate current and voltage ratings, trip system, current sensors, operating mechanism, control power, accessories and draw-out switchgear interface.

• Model: KPE-16
• Manufacturer: ABB
• Product Series: K-Line Plus
• Product Description: Extended-Rated Air Circuit Breaker
• Frame Rating: 1600 A
• Maximum Thermal Rating: 1600 A

For replacement procurement, match the existing KPE-16 configuration rather than relying on the frame rating alone. Where a retrofit is being considered, verify the switchgear interface and the applicable ABB retrofit documentation before selecting an alternative.

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