The Cutler-Hammer LW3800WK is a heavy-duty, molded case circuit breaker belonging to the renowned Series C family. Engineered by Eaton, this LW-frame breaker is designed to provide superior protection for electrical circuits against overloads and short circuits in demanding industrial environments. With a continuous current rating of 800 Amperes and a three-pole configuration, it serves as a primary protective device in large-scale power distribution systems, switchboards, and motor control centers.

 

Technical Description & Parameters

The LW3800WK utilizes a sophisticated thermal-magnetic or electronic trip mechanism (depending on the specific sub-configuration) to ensure rapid interruption of faults while maintaining system stability.

• Model Number: LW3800WK
• Frame Type: LW-Frame (Series C)
• Number of Poles: 3-Pole (3P)
• Amperage: 800A
• Voltage Rating: Typically rated up to 600 VAC
• Interrupting Rating: High-capacity interruption (verify specific kA rating based on system voltage)
• Terminal Connection: Standard pressure line and load terminals (W-type)
• Magnetic Trip: Adjustable or fixed settings for high-level fault protection
• Thermal Trip: Calibrated for 40°C ambient temperature protection

 

Product Datasheet Essentials

The LW-Series C breakers are known for their compact footprint relative to their high amperage capacity. The LW3800WK features a “WK” designation, which typically indicates a specific mounting or terminal kit configuration suitable for industrial enclosures. It incorporates silver-alloy contacts for high conductivity and long electrical life, along with an arc-extinguishing chamber that safely dissipates energy during a trip event.

 

Country of Origin

USA (Eaton / Cutler-Hammer)

 

Application Fields

This 800A breaker is a staple in high-power infrastructure, including:

• Manufacturing Plants: Protection for heavy machinery and assembly lines.
• Commercial Buildings: Main service entrance protection for hospitals and data centers.
• Mining and Heavy Industry: Reliable power distribution in dusty or vibration-prone areas.
• Panel Boards: Integrated into Eaton/Cutler-Hammer Pow-R-Line switchgear.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Mounting: Install the breaker in a compatible Series C enclosure. Ensure the mounting surface is flat to prevent stress on the molded case.
2. Wiring: Use appropriately sized copper or aluminum conductors rated for 800A. Tighten terminal lugs to the torque specifications listed on the breaker label.
3. Operation: Use the toggle handle for manual “ON” and “OFF” operations. If the breaker trips, the handle will move to a center “TRIP” position. To reset, move the handle firmly to “OFF” before switching back to “ON.”
4. Testing: Periodically perform a “Push-to-Trip” test using the mechanical button on the face of the breaker to ensure the internal linkage is functional.

 

Common Questions & Answers (Q&A)

Q: Can the trip settings be adjusted on the LW3800WK? A: Most LW-frame breakers of this size feature adjustable magnetic trip settings located behind a clear cover on the front, allowing you to fine-tune the protection based on your motor start-up loads or system coordination.

Q: Is the LW3800WK compatible with older Westinghouse systems? A: Yes, since Eaton acquired Cutler-Hammer and Westinghouse’s distribution business, Series C breakers like the LW3800WK are the direct functional replacements for many legacy Westinghouse industrial breakers.

Q: What does the “WK” suffix signify? A: In the Eaton nomenclature, “WK” often refers to the inclusion of specific hardware or field-installable terminal kits that facilitate connection to heavy-gauge industrial cabling.

 

Explore More Electrical Distribution Components

For technical support and to browse our inventory for the LW3800WK and other Series C components, visit our online catalog.

 

Recommended Similar Models

1. LD3600 – A 600A Series C breaker for slightly lower power requirements.
2. MD3800F – An M-Frame breaker offering similar amperage with different physical dimensions.
3. LDB3800 – A high-interrupting capacity version within the same frame family.
4. HFD3080 – A smaller F-Frame breaker used for branch circuit protection in the same system.
5. ND3800 – A larger N-Frame molded case circuit breaker for higher voltage or interrupt needs.