Founded in 1920, Merlin Gerin initially specialized 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 license.
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 molded-case air circuit breaker is launched.