[C320-list] Circuit breaker ratings?

[bruceheyman]

Hi Graeme,On our circuit breakers the rating is stamped in white ink on the back of the breaker.  The coast guard asks that nothing else be in a circuit with the radio gear and each should have their own breaker to avoid single point of failure.The breaker should be sized for the size of the wire not necessarily for what you are putting at the end of the run.  I like to use which ever would require a lower rating.  Given the Guage of wire that you just ran you should be able to find tables to tell you what size fuse or breaker to use.Good luck,Bruce


Bruce Heyman949-289-8400

-------- Original message --------
From: Graeme Clark <cg at skyflyer.co.uk> 
Date: 03/30/2016  00:56  (GMT-08:00) 
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com 
Subject: [C320-list] Circuit breaker ratings? 

Does anyone know what the miniature circuit breakers on the Mk 1  electrical panel are rated at - i.e at what amperage do they pop open?

I am installing a below deck autopilot and this powers the linear drive (max draw 15A) , the instrument network and the drive clutch (max 2A) when needed. the fuse in the unit is 20amp .

I have run new heavy gauge power wires to support this current and was thinking of connecting this to my now otherwise unused Nav/Com switch on the panel; but I see that the way the panel is organised there are three items that run through a single breaker. (I have already wired all the comms to a separate switch)

Am I likely to blow the breaker if I do this. Should I have a dedicated power feed through a separate breaker or fuse?

Thanks

Graeme
#366, Jaskar, 1996, England

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