The Square D 10C316 is a 16 Amp three pole Miniature Circuit Breaker from the KQ series, built to protect three phase feeders, socket circuits and small motor supplies against overload and short circuit faults. The 10kA breaking capacity puts it above the common 6kA devices, so it can be specified in panels close to a transformer or anywhere the prospective fault current runs high.

The C curve tripping characteristic sits in the middle of the range, tripping at five to ten times rated current on the magnetic element. That gives it enough tolerance to ride through motor starting current and lighting inrush without nuisance tripping, while still clearing a genuine short circuit in milliseconds. For a 16 Amp feeder serving mixed load, that balance is usually the right choice.

Three pole construction breaks all three phases together, which prevents a single phasing condition that could damage connected motors. The unit clips onto standard 35mm din rail and sits alongside the rest of the board without special accessories. Manufactured in France, it carries the Square D build quality that panel builders and consultants specify by name.

Key Features

16 Amp rating suits socket circuits, small motors and mixed three phase feeders
10kA breaking capacity for panels on high fault level supplies
C curve tripping tolerates motor and lighting inrush
Three pole design breaks all phases and prevents single phasing
Snap fit 35mm din rail mounting for fast installation
Genuine Square D product from the KQ series
Manufactured in France with 0.25kg compact body

Technical Specifications

Specification	Detail
Product Type	Miniature Circuit Breaker
Series	KQ
Model	10C316
Ampere Rating	16 Amps
Poles	3 Pole
Breaking Capacity	10kA
Tripping Curve	C Curve
Mounting	35mm Din Rail
Brand	Square D
Country of Origin	France
Weight	0.25kg
SKU	MCB-16A-10KA-3P-KQ-SQUARED

Common Applications

Three phase socket and power circuits in workshops and warehouses, small motor and pump feeders, HVAC and fan supplies, lighting distribution boards, machine builder control panels, sub distribution boards in commercial buildings, and general purpose feeders where a 16 Amp rating matches the cable size.

Choosing the Right MCB

Three things decide the selection: current rating against the cable and load, breaking capacity against the prospective fault current at that point in the installation, and tripping curve against the type of load. Get the rating right first, then confirm the other two.

For lower current control and instrumentation duty, the 1 Amp 3 pole MCB from ABB and the 2 Amp 3 pole ABB S273 both offer the same 10kA capacity in a smaller rating. Where the fault level is lower and cost matters, the 10 Amp 3 pole MCB from LS covers standard commercial boards at 6kA. For single or split phase circuits, the 6 Amp 2 pole ABB S271Na is the two pole equivalent.

Panels also need isolation and switching alongside protection. Pair this breaker with an 80A three pole isolator switch PS63 for lockable isolation, or a 120A three phase changeover switch A1023 on dual supply boards. Browse the full miniature circuit breakers MCB range or the wider low voltage switchgear category.

Why Buy From Qahraba

Qahraba supplies electrical contractors, panel builders and procurement engineers across the UAE and worldwide. Every Miniature Circuit Breaker we stock is sourced from the original manufacturer. Local UAE orders ship within 1 to 2 working days, free above AED 250, or collect free from our Dubai store. Call or WhatsApp +971 52 913 9543 for bulk pricing or technical help.

FAQ

What is a Miniature Circuit Breaker used for?

A Miniature Circuit Breaker disconnects a circuit automatically when it detects overload or short circuit current, protecting cable and connected equipment. Unlike a fuse it is reset by hand and reused once the fault is cleared.

What load can a 16 Amp 3 pole MCB handle?

On a 415V three phase supply, 16 Amps corresponds to roughly 11kW, though the actual figure depends on power factor and the cable rating. Always size the breaker to protect the cable, not just the load.

Is 10kA better than 6kA?

It is not better, it is different. Breaking capacity must match or exceed the prospective short circuit current at that point in the installation. 10kA is specified near transformers and on main boards, while 6kA is adequate for most final distribution.

Why choose a C curve over a B or D curve?

C curve trips at five to ten times rated current and suits mixed loads with moderate inrush. B curve trips at three to five times and suits resistive and lighting loads. D curve trips at ten to twenty times for heavy inrush such as transformers and large motors.

Does this MCB fit standard din rail?

Yes, it clips onto standard 35mm din rail in any distribution board or control panel.

Do you supply in bulk for panel builders?

Yes. Contact us on +971 52 913 9543 for quantity pricing on Square D and other MCB brands.

16 Amp 3 Pole Miniature Circuit Breaker 10kA C Curve Din Rail KQ 10C316 Square D