On Powerpact M, P, R, Compact NS, and Masterpact NT/NW/MTZ circuit breakers, is it ok if there is some movement on the bottom terminals (OFF end) of the breaker?

Issue:
Are the bottom terminals on the Powerpact M, P, R, Compact NS, Masterpact NT/NW/MTZ breaker supposed to be loose?

Product Line:
Circuit Breakers

Resolution:
Yes, it is normal to have some movement on the bottom terminals (OFF end). Inside of the breaker, heavy braided copper conductors are used to connect those terminals to the movable contact assembly within the breaker. The load current flows through the braided conductors (not a rigid connection). This movement allows the breaker contacts to open and close correctly. When force is applied to a particular terminal, the amount of movement is related to tolerance stack-ups in the housing and terminals. The actual amount of movement may vary from one terminal to the next, and from breaker to breaker. The breaker support housing restricts the movement of the terminals to acceptable parameters. Therefore, the movement of the terminals does not affect the operation of the breaker.

Released for: Schneider Electric Canada