Phoenix Contact TCP 0,5A Thermal Device Circuit Breaker

Technical Overview

Thermal device circuit breaker, 0.5A, 250VAC/65VDC, reclosable, pluggable, IP40 actuation area, -20°C to 60°C operating temp.

Key Features

Provides optimum protection against overload for power distribution systems.
Reclosable design allows for quick reactivation, reducing operational downtime.
Compact form factor with an 8.2 mm width optimizes space in control cabinets.
Designed for plug-in mounting into compatible screw-type or spring-cage fuse terminal blocks.
Features a slow-blow thermal tripping characteristic, accommodating temporary surge overcurrents.
Operates reliably in ambient temperatures ranging from -20 °C to 60 °C.
Offers IP40 degree of protection for the actuation area, guarding against solid objects over 1mm.
Insulating material (PPS) boasts a UL 94 V-0 flammability rating for enhanced safety.

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Nominal Current	0.5 A
Nominal Voltage	250 V AC
Nominal Voltage	65 V DC
Operating Temperature	-20 °C to 60 °C
Degree of Protection	IP40 (Actuation area)
Connection Method	Pluggable
Mounting Type	On base element (e.g., DIN rail with compatible terminal block)
Flammability Rating (UL 94)	V-0
Insulating Material	PPS
Altitude	4000 m
Humidity Test	240 h, 95 % RH, 40 °C
Standards/Specifications	EN 60934
Physical Weight (kg)	0.01
Dimensions L x W x H (cm)	4.45 x 0.82 x 2.44

Industrial Applications

1. Control Cabinet Protection for Low-Current Sensor/Actuator Circuits

This thermal device circuit breaker effectively protects sensitive low-current sensors, signal conditioners, or small actuators (e.g., 24VDC solenoids, 4-20mA loops) within industrial control cabinets. Its compact 8.2mm width allows for high-density mounting on DIN rails, conserving valuable cabinet space. The reclosable feature simplifies fault recovery, enabling quick troubleshooting and resetting without requiring fuse replacement.

Problem Solved

Prevents overcurrent damage to delicate low-current components in space-constrained control cabinets and accelerates system recovery from electrical faults due to its reclosable design.

Low-current protectionControl cabinetDIN rail mounting24VDC4-20mACompact designReclosableOvercurrent protectionSensor protection

2. Distributed I/O Module Protection in Factory Environments

Ideal for safeguarding individual I/O channels or small power distribution points in distributed I/O systems, especially those situated within factory floors. The IP40 rating for the actuation area provides protection against solid particles, and the broad -20°C to 60°C operating temperature range ensures reliable performance in typical industrial conditions. The 0.5A nominal current is well-suited for individual I/O module protection.

Problem Solved

Provides reliable, localized overcurrent protection for individual I/O channels against faults in environments with moderate dust and temperature fluctuations, while enabling rapid reset of tripped circuits.

Distributed I/OFactory automationIP40 protectionWide temperature rangeI/O channel protectionShort circuit protectionOverload protectionReclosable breaker

3. Auxiliary Power Supply Output Protection

Perfect for protecting lower-current auxiliary circuits powered by industrial power supplies, such as panel lighting, small ventilation fans, or indicating lamps. Its ability to handle both 250 VAC and 65 VDC makes it a versatile solution for various auxiliary power sources. The manual reset capability after a temporary fault is highly advantageous, simplifying maintenance compared to traditional fuse replacement.

Problem Solved

Safeguards auxiliary power supply outputs and connected low-power devices from overcurrents, preventing cascading failures and simplifying maintenance through its reclosable (manual reset) function.

Auxiliary powerPower supply protection250 VAC65 VDCOverload protectionManual resetLow power circuitsCircuit protection