Number of Poles in IEC Circuit Breakers Pole

A pole refers to a single circuit conductor that the circuit breaker can interrupt.

1-Pole Circuit Breaker

Interrupts one phase of a single-phase electrical system. Used for protecting lighting circuits, small appliances, or individual motors.

2-Pole Circuit Breaker

Interrupts both phases of a split-phase or single-phase system. Used for protecting major appliances, such as refrigerators, stoves, or air conditioners. Provides overcurrent protection for both hot wires (line and neutral).

3-Pole Circuit Breaker

Interrupts all three phases of a three-phase electrical system. Used for protecting three-phase motors, lighting systems, or heavy equipment. Provides overcurrent protection for all three line wires (L1, L2, L3).

4-Pole Circuit Breaker

Interrupts all three phases of a three-phase system, plus the neutral wire. Rarely used, but provides additional protection against faults involving the neutral conductor. Typically used in industrial or commercial applications.

Summary Table:| Number of Poles | Application

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1 | Single-phase lighting, small appliances

2 | Split-phase appliances, major appliances

3 | Three-phase motors, heavy equipment || 4 | Three-phase systems with neutral protection | Flag for review