General Information, Before Installation

SECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMATION

GE Conversion Kit installation is straightforward, but does require careful workmanship and attention to these instructions. Familiarity with the breaker is highly desirable. The general approach is to first remove the existing trip devices from the breaker, then install the ProTrip components. Following this procedure, the converted breaker is performance tested before it is returned to service.

The majority of trip unit kit installations do not require any customized assembly work. However, some conversions may involve unusual mounting conditions or accessory combinations that require minor modifications and/or relocation of compo- nents. In most instances, this supplementary work can be done on site.

In preparation for the conversion, the installer should verify that the appropriate current sensors and trip unit have been furnished. Whenever a ProTrip kit is installed on a breaker with a four-wire system, an associated neutral sensor (CT) is required for separate mounting in the equipment. Ensure that retrofitted breakers are applied within their short- circuit ratings. For example, if the previous trip unit provided long-time instantaneous protection, the short-time rating of the ProTrip Trip Unit will govern the application.

As a service-related consideration, the installation of a ProTrip kit provides an excellent opportunity to perform normal maintenance on the breaker, par- ticularly when the front and back frames are sepa- rated. Such procedures are described in the instal- lation and maintenance manuals supplied with the breaker and equipment.

SECTION 2. BEFORE INSTALLATION

Before starting any work, turn off and lock out all power sources leading to the breaker, both primary and secondary. Remove the breaker to a clean, well- lighted work area.

WARNING: Low-voltage power circuit breakers use high-speed, stored-energy spring operating mechanisms. The breakers and their enclosures contain interlocks and safety features intended to provide safe, proper operating sequences. For maximum personnel protection during installation, operation, and maintenance of these breakers, the following procedures must be followed. Failure to follow these procedures may result in personal injury or property damage.

•Only qualified persons, as defined in the National Electrical Code, who are familiar with the installation and maintenance of low-voltage power circuit breakers and switchgear assem- blies, should perform any work on these break- ers.

•Completely read and understand all instructions before attempting any breaker installation, operation, maintenance, or modification.

•Turn off and lock out the power source feeding the breaker before attempting any installation, maintenance, or modification. Follow all lock- out and tag-out rules of the National Electrical Code and all other applicable codes.

•Do not work on a closed breaker or a breaker with the closing springs charged. Trip an OPEN breaker and be sure the stored-energy springs are discharged, thus removing the possibility that the breaker may trip OPEN or the closing springs discharge and cause injury.

•Trip the breaker OPEN, then remove the breaker to a well-lighted work area before beginning work.

•Do not perform any maintenance that includes breaker charging, closing, tripping, or any other function that could cause significant movement of a draw-out breaker while it is on the draw-out extension rails.

•Do not leave the breaker in an intermediate position in the switchgear compartment. Always leave it in the CONNECTED, TEST, or DISCONNECTED position. Failure to do so could lead to improper positioning of the breaker and flashback.