Founded in 1920, Merlin Gerin initially specialised in medium and high-voltage oil circuit breakers. The company grew rapidly continuously investing in innovation until it was acquired by Schneider in 1992.
Milestone dates
- 1920
Paul-Louis Merlin and Gaston Gerin set up their electrical equipment business in Grenoble.
- 1921
Volta laboratory in Grenoble was built to carry out safety tests on high-voltage products and equipment, reaching up to 800 kV in the 1930s.
- 1929
Paul-Louis Merlin’s school for electrical apprenticeships opens in Grenoble.
- 1937
Merlin Gerin pioneers the pneumatic circuit breaker, more reliable and safer than oil alternatives.
- 1946
Merlin Gerin's first circuit breaker to cut 10,000 A and 15,000 V short circuits is launched.
- 1951
First series of low-voltage Compact circuit breakers is launched under Westinghouse licence.
- 1972
F32 low voltage miniature circuit breaker for homes is launched.
- 1974
Multi 9 modular protection system, forerunner to Acti 9 and Resi 9, is launched.
- 1986
MasterPact 800-6300 A moulded-case air circuit breaker is launched.
Schneider Electric history
Learn about our history and discover other brands that are part of Schneider Electric today.