Description
Blue Sea 7146 120A Thermal Circuit Breaker | Boat Supply Store
Protecting critical marine circuits from overcurrent and short circuits is paramount, especially in gasoline-powered vessels where ignition hazards are a concern. This 120 Amp, 187-Series thermal circuit breaker from Blue Sea Systems integrates both a switching function and robust circuit protection into a single, ignition-protected unit meeting SAE J1171 standards. It offers a 48 Volts DC maximum operating voltage and a substantial 5,000 Amperes @ 12 Volts DC interrupt rating, ensuring dependable performance in demanding marine environments.
Key Features
- Integrated Functionality: Combines essential switching and circuit protection in one unit.
- Ignition Protected: Meets stringent SAE J1171 requirements, vital for gasoline engines.
- Trip-Free Operation: Prevents manual re-engagement when a fault condition persists.
- Waterproof Construction: Engineered to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Clear Indicative Lever: Features a large lever for intuitive operation and clear trip indication.
- Robust Terminals: Equipped with large 5/16" terminal studs for secure electrical connections.
- Clean Installation: Recessed mounting holes facilitate a neat and professional appearance.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for 12V, 24V, and 42V DC systems.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Amperage Rating | 120 Amp |
| Series | 187-Series |
| Type | Type III (Switchable/Manual Reset/Trip Free) |
| Mechanism | Thermally Responsive Bi-Metal Blade |
| Case Material | Thermoset Polyester |
| Maximum Voltage | 48 Volts DC |
| Interrupt Rating @ 12V DC | 5,000 Amperes |
| Interrupt Rating @ 24V DC | 3,000 Amperes |
| Interrupt Rating @ 42V DC | 1,500 Amperes |
| Operating Temperature Range | -25°C to +82°C |
| Ignition Protection | SAE J1171 |
Who This Is For
Marine enthusiasts, boat owners, and marine electricians requiring reliable and integrated circuit protection and switching for 12V, 24V, or 42V DC systems. Particularly critical for gasoline-powered vessels where SAE J1171 ignition protection is mandatory.
How It Compares
| Feature | Blue Sea 7146 120A Thermal Circuit Breaker | Blue Sea Systems 7087 187 Series Thermal Circuit Breaker |
|---|---|---|
| Amperage Rating | 120 Amp | 100 Amp |
| Voltage Rating (Max) | 48 Volts DC | 48 Volts DC |
| Ignition Protected | Yes (SAE J1171) | Yes |
| Interrupt Rating @ 12V DC | 5,000 Amperes | 5,000 Amperes |
| Trip Free Design | Yes | Yes |
Common Concerns Answered
Will this circuit breaker be a complex installation?
Installation is rated as moderate (3/5), requiring basic electrical knowledge, proper wire sizing, and secure mounting, but it consolidates switching and protection, simplifying the overall system compared to separate components.
Is the price a barrier for DIY boaters?
While the price point reflects its integrated switching, trip-free, and ignition-protected features, the long-term reliability and safety benefits it provides for critical marine circuits offer significant value and peace of mind.
What if I accidentally try to reset it while there's still a fault?
The trip-free design inherently prevents re-engagement of the circuit while a fault condition persists, ensuring that the system remains protected and preventing potential damage or fire hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the voltage rating of the Blue Sea 7146 circuit breaker?
The Blue Sea 7146 circuit breaker has a maximum operating voltage rating of 48 Volts DC.
What is the interrupt rating of the Blue Sea 7146 circuit breaker at 12V DC?
The interrupt rating for the Blue Sea 7146 at 12 Volts DC is 5,000 Amperes.
Is the Blue Sea 7146 circuit breaker ignition protected?
Yes, the Blue Sea 7146 circuit breaker meets SAE J1171 external ignition protection requirements.
What type of reset does the Blue Sea 7146 circuit breaker have?
The Blue Sea 7146 features a Type III design, which includes a switchable function, manual reset, and a trip-free mechanism.
Can the Blue Sea 7146 circuit breaker be used on gasoline-powered boats?
Yes, this circuit breaker is specifically designed to be ignition protected (SAE J1171), making it suitable and safe for use on gasoline-powered boats where ignition hazards are a concern.
