Power management company Eaton announced at the end of September that new laser-etched labels will be featured on its moulded case circuit breakers (MCCBs) to help in product authentication.
The laser-marking method is said to provide more permanent markings, helping to authenticate each circuit breaker throughout its life cycle. These permanent markings require more sophisticated technology to manufacture and are designed to prevent removal and replacement from the product, helping consumers recognise products that have experienced reconditioning.
‘Providing these more permanent markings on circuit breaker labels is part of Eaton’s ongoing effort to help prevent unsafe copies from being manufactured and making it into the marketplace,’ said Tom Grace, brand protection manager, Eaton’s American electrical sector. ‘The addition of new laser-etched labels demonstrates Eaton’s investment in anti-counterfeit technologies and its commitment to combat counterfeiting worldwide.’
Laser-etching is one of many new technologies Eaton said it is employing to help combat the counterfeiting of electrical products. Common counterfeit electrical products such as circuit breakers can lead to costly repairs, property damage and even serious injury or death because they have not been properly manufactured or tested.
Information laser-etched directly onto the circuit breaker includes ratings, specifications and product information. With information included on the label, customers can authenticate the breaker using Eaton’s Circuit Breaker Authentication (CBA) tool. By entering the barcode, part number, and date code found on the circuit breaker, the CBA tool is intended to immediately assist in verifying authentication.
Eaton is a power management company with 2013 sales of $22.0 billion that has approximately 103,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 175 countries. Eaton provides energy-efficient solutions for customers to manage electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical power more efficiently.
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