ABB MO165 Magnetic-Only Manual Motor Starters

MO165 is a three-pole device with electromagnetic short-circuit tripping. ABB describes its use in three-phase and single-phase applications, with wiring arranged according to the applicable diagram. It can form a motor starter combination with a contactor and a separate overload relay; the selected combination must be checked for the actual installation.

MO165 Range and Protection Functions

The ABB MO165 data sheet lists nine screw-terminal types with rated operational currents from 16 to 80 A. These are individual device ratings, not an adjustable thermal overload range. Unlike a thermal-magnetic MS165 starter, MO165 has no thermal overload element. The trip-free mechanism, ON/OFF/TRIP indication and lockable handle support manual operation and isolation.

Short-Circuit Ratings and Installation

Selection requires the supply voltage and prospective fault current. ABB gives rated ultimate breaking capacity (Icu), service breaking capacity (Ics) and back-up fuse requirements by MO165 type and voltage. A value applicable to one model at 400 V must not be applied to every type or to a different voltage. The instantaneous short-circuit setting is also model-specific.

The data sheet provides DIN-rail mounting, dimensions, conductor sizes, tightening torque and clearances. Check these against the enclosure, wiring and installation conditions. Use the exact accessories and starter combination specified in ABB documentation.

Standards and Application Boundaries

ABB lists IEC/EN 60947-1, 60947-2 and 60947-4-1 in the MO165 data sheet. Its separate UL/CSA tables cover motor-controller uses, branch-circuit protection and tested combinations. IEC breaking capacities and North American combination ratings are different selection conditions; confirm the required market, standard and complete assembly rather than assuming one rating covers both.

Selecting an MO165 Model

Confirm motor nameplate current and power, supply voltage and phase arrangement, starting conditions, prospective short-circuit current, the separate overload relay and contactor, and required coordination. Also check mounting space, conductors, operating environment and accessories. For an existing installation, provide the complete device code and a nameplate photo before selecting a replacement unit.

Browse Motor Control, compare the distinct protection functions of MS165, or review AF contactors for starter selection. These links do not establish interchangeability.

Model Lookup and Quotation Information

Use the existing table below to search the product model or ABB order code. For a quotation request, send the full model/code, quantity, destination country, motor and supply details, required overload relay/contactor combination and accessories. Include nameplate and installation details when identifying an existing device.

ABB Technical Reference

The ABB MO165 data sheet, 2CDC131084D0201 (PDF) gives the order data and separate IEC/EN and UL/CSA tables. Check the exact model and applicable document revision; unverified historical ratings, status or compatibility are not inferred here.