Circuit breaker series 187 - Surface mount 50 A

The Blue Sea 187 series 50 A circuit breaker is a rugged electrical protection device, specifically designed for marine environments. It is part of Blue Sea Systems' 187 range, known for its reliability in nautical applications. This model is designed for surface mounting.

The main function of this circuit breaker is to protect the electrical circuits of your boat from damage caused by overcurrent and short circuits. It automatically interrupts the current flow in case of a fault, preventing the risk of fire or damage to onboard equipment and wiring.

This circuit breaker is designed to protect circuits up to a rated current of 50 amperes (50 A). It is important to ensure that the breaker's amp rating matches the protection requirements of the circuit it serves.

Yes, one of the key advantages of the 187 series circuit breaker is that it is reusable. Unlike fuses, which must be replaced after each trip, this circuit breaker can be manually reset after correcting the cause of the overload or short circuit.

The main difference is reusability. A fuse is a single-use device that melts and must be replaced after protecting a circuit. A circuit breaker, such as the Blue Sea series 187, is a resettable device that can be manually reset after tripping, providing a more practical and cost-effective solution in the long term for marine environments.

Yes, this circuit breaker is specifically engineered for marine environments. Blue Sea Systems products are renowned for their robustness and ability to operate reliably under harsh conditions, including exposure to moisture, salt, and vibrations.

When a circuit breaker trips due to an overload or short circuit, its lever or reset button typically moves to the 'OFF' or 'tripped' position. To reset it, simply move the lever back to the 'ON' position manually after identifying and resolving the issue.

With a 50 A capacity, this circuit breaker is suitable for protecting major circuits. It can be used to protect:

The main power supply of certain equipment.Branches of the electrical distribution system.Navigation instruments.Bilge pumps.Lighting systems or other high-consumption loads.

This circuit breaker is designed for surface mounting. This means it is fixed directly to a panel, bulkhead, or any other flat surface using screws, without requiring complex cutting for flush mounting.

Although details may vary, the general installation steps include:

1. Shut off all electrical power to the relevant circuit.

2. Select a suitable and secure mounting location.

3. Securely mount the circuit breaker using screws.

4. Connect the input and output cables to the appropriate breaker terminals.

5. Verify all connections to ensure they are secure and properly insulated.

6. Restore power and test circuit operation.

If you are not familiar with marine electrical installation, it is recommended to consult a professional.

The best location is an easily accessible spot for manual reset, protected from direct water spray if possible, and close to the circuit it protects. It should be mounted on a stable, flat surface, away from excessive heat sources or intense vibrations for optimal performance.

Cables are connected to the breaker terminals, usually labeled as input (source) and output (load). It is critical to use proper lugs for 50 A cables to ensure a solid and secure connection, and to respect polarity if applicable (for DC systems). Tighten connections firmly to avoid resistance or overheating.

Yes, it is imperative to cut all power supply to the relevant circuit before starting the circuit breaker installation. This is an essential safety measure to avoid electric shocks and accidental short circuits.

For a 50 A circuit breaker, it is crucial to use cables with adequate cross-section to handle this current without overheating. The exact size depends on cable length and allowable voltage drop, but an 8 AWG cable (approximately 8.37 mm²) or thicker is generally recommended for 50 A in most marine applications. Refer to ABYC standards or cable sizing charts for precise information.

Although the circuit breaker is designed for marine environments, installation in an engine compartment must be done with caution. Ensure the chosen location does not expose the circuit breaker to excessive temperatures, intense vibrations, or direct splashes of fuel or oil, which could affect its performance and lifespan.

Yes, absolutely. This circuit breaker is designed to operate with direct current (DC) systems up to 32V DC, which includes 12V and 24V DC systems — the most common voltages in marine applications.

No, the Blue Sea 187 series 50 A circuit breaker (part number 7139-BSS) is specifically designed for DC (direct current) systems and is not suitable for use with AC (alternating current) systems.

Yes, this 50 A circuit breaker is fully suitable for protecting a battery charging circuit, provided the maximum current of the circuit does not exceed 50 amperes and the system voltage is compatible (up to 32V DC). It provides reliable protection against overloads that may occur during battery charging or discharging.

Yes, this circuit breaker can replace an existing 50 A fuse, with the advantage of being resettable. When replacing, ensure the circuit breaker is compatible with the system voltage (up to 32V DC) and that the mounting type (surface-mounted) suits your installation.