MEAN WELL ICL Series AC Inrush Current Limiter
Complete Portfolio: 16A & 28A Continuous | DIN Rail & Linear Formats | Internal Bypass Relay
Prevent Circuit Breaker Tripping
The MEAN WELL ICL Series is designed to solve a common industrial and commercial lighting problem: false tripping of circuit breakers due to massive startup inrush currents. When powering on multiple capacitive loads (like LED drivers or switching power supplies) simultaneously, the ICL series acts as a buffer, safely suppressing the initial AC current spike.
Why Choose the ICL Series?
- Increased Loading: By clamping the inrush current, you can safely install significantly more LED drivers or power supplies on a single circuit breaker without fear of nuisance tripping.
- Two Form Factors: Available in an ultra-slim step-shape DIN Rail ("R" type) for electrical distribution boards, or a flat linear shape ("L" type) for integration into lighting fixtures and suspended ceilings.
- High Reliability: Features an integrated bypass relay and thermal fuses to ensure long-term, heat-free operation once the startup phase is complete.
ICL-16R / ICL-16L Specifications
The 16A models are perfectly scaled for standard commercial lighting circuits and mid-sized industrial control panels.
| Parameter | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| AC Input Range | 180 ~ 264VAC (47~63Hz) |
| Continuous Current Limit | 16A |
| Inrush Current Limit | Clamped at 23A |
| Max Power Capacity | 3680VA (16A x 230VAC) |
| Allowable Capacitive Load | Up to 2500 μF (maximum) |
| Internal Relay Delay | 300 ± 50ms |
ICL-28R / ICL-28L Specifications
Designed for heavy-duty applications, the 28A models accommodate massive capacitive loads and high-wattage lighting installations, drastically reducing infrastructure cabling costs.
| Parameter | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| AC Input Range | 180 ~ 264VAC (47~63Hz) |
| Continuous Current Limit | 28A |
| Inrush Current Limit | Clamped at 48A |
| Max Power Capacity | 6440VA (28A x 230VAC) |
| Allowable Capacitive Load | Up to 6000 μF (maximum) |
| Internal Relay Delay | 150 ± 50ms |
Smart Inrush Suppression Technology
The Bypass Relay Mechanism
Unlike simple NTC thermistors that generate continuous heat, the ICL series utilizes an intelligent internal relay circuit. Upon powering up, the current passes through suppression resistors. After a fraction of a second (150ms to 300ms), once the downstream capacitors are charged, the internal relay clicks shut. This bypasses the resistors entirely, eliminating heat generation and reducing power loss (less than 2W dissipation) during normal operation.
Safety & Environmental Protections
- Thermal Protection: Built-in temperature fuses protect against overload and fire hazards.
- Overvoltage Category III: OVC III compliance ensures high reliability in building installations, suitable for operation at altitudes up to 5000 meters.
- Wide Temperature Range: Operates safely in extreme environments from -30°C up to +70°C without condensation.
Form Factors & Dimensions
The ICL series is offered in two distinct physical configurations to accommodate any installation scenario.
"R" Type: DIN Rail Mount
Features a step-shape plastic housing designed to mount seamlessly alongside circuit breakers on standard TS-35/7.5 or TS-35/15 DIN rails.
- ICL-16R (2 SU width): 35 * 90 * 54.5 mm (W*H*D)
- ICL-28R (3 SU width): 52.5 * 90 * 54.5 mm (W*H*D)
"L" Type: Linear Enclosed
Features a long, narrow, low-profile design ideal for integrating directly into LED lighting fixtures, suspended ceilings, or confined machinery spaces.
- ICL-16L: 175 * 42 * 24 mm (L*W*H)
- ICL-28L: 175 * 42 * 24 mm (L*W*H)