Obsolete Circuit Breakers
When manufacturers discontinue products, Group CBS continues to support them. We source, refurbish, and provide replacement solutions for obsolete and hard-to-find circuit breakers from every major manufacturer.
Just Because It's Obsolete Doesn't Mean It's Unavailable
Millions of obsolete circuit breakers remain in critical service at utilities, industrial plants, and commercial facilities. Group CBS specializes in keeping this equipment operational through expert sourcing, refurbishment, and replacement solutions.
Why Circuit Breakers Become Obsolete
Manufacturer Discontinued
The manufacturer has stopped production and no longer supports the product line.
Company Acquired or Closed
The original manufacturer was acquired, merged, or went out of business.
Technology Superseded
Newer technology has replaced the original design with improved performance.
Standards Changed
Updated safety or performance standards require newer equipment designs.
Our Solutions for Obsolete Equipment
Surplus Sourcing
Access our worldwide network to find new, unused, or low-use surplus breakers from plant closures, project cancellations, and inventory reductions.
Professional Refurbishment
Restore obsolete breakers to like-new condition with complete disassembly, cleaning, component replacement, and NETA-accredited testing.
Replacement Engineering
When direct replacement isn't available, our engineers design retrofit solutions using modern breakers that fit existing switchgear.
Emergency Response
24/7 availability for critical equipment failures. We can mobilize to source, test, and ship emergency replacements overnight.
Obsolete Product Lines We Support
Group CBS maintains inventory and sourcing capability for discontinued breakers from these manufacturers and product lines.
General Electric
GE AK
Available through refurbishment and obsolete sourcing programs. Supported through replacement and life-extension services
GE Magne-Blast
Available through refurbishment and obsolete sourcing programs. Replacement and upgrade options available
Westinghouse
Westinghouse DB
Available through refurbishment and obsolete sourcing programs. Supported through replacement and life-extension services
Westinghouse DS
Available through refurbishment and obsolete sourcing programs
Westinghouse SPB
Available as refurbished or tested surplus
Westinghouse Pow-R-Way
Available through obsolete sourcing and refurbishment programs
Federal Pacific Electric
ITE (Imperial-Type-Electric)
ITE K-Line
Available through refurbishment and obsolete sourcing programs. Supported through replacement and life-extension services
ITE HK
Available as refurbished or tested surplus
ITE KP
Available through obsolete sourcing and refurbishment programs
Allis-Chalmers
Legacy & Discontinued Manufacturers
These manufacturers have either closed, been acquired, or discontinued circuit breaker production. Group CBS provides full lifecycle support for their equipment.
Square D
Square D, now part of Schneider Electric, has been a trusted name in electrical distribution equipment for over a century. Their circuit breaker lines include the legendary Masterpact, PowerPact, and QO series. Group CBS provides comprehensive support for all Square D products, including legacy and obsolete models.
Product Lines
Westinghouse
Westinghouse Electric established many of the standards for American power distribution equipment. Though the company has undergone various ownership changes, their circuit breaker legacy lives on in countless installations. Group CBS is a leading source for Westinghouse breaker parts, refurbishment, and replacement solutions.
Westinghouse low voltage circuit breakers are no longer manufactured but remain widely installed. Group CBS maintains extensive inventory and provides full lifecycle support including refurbishment, obsolete parts sourcing, and replacement programs.
Product Lines
Federal Pacific Electric
Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) produced circuit breakers and electrical equipment from 1950 to 1979. While the company no longer exists, their equipment remains installed in numerous facilities. Group CBS provides expert support for FPE breakers including parts sourcing, refurbishment, and replacement recommendations.
Federal Pacific Electric ceased operations in 1979. Due to historical concerns with Stab-Lok breakers in residential applications, commercial and industrial FPE equipment should be evaluated for replacement or upgrade. Group CBS can assist with assessment and replacement planning.
Product Lines
ITE (Imperial-Type-Electric)
ITE (Imperial-Type-Electric) was a pioneering manufacturer of circuit breakers and electrical distribution equipment. Now part of Siemens, ITE products remain in service at facilities worldwide. Group CBS provides comprehensive support for all ITE breakers including the legendary K-Line and HK series.
ITE circuit breakers were acquired by Siemens in 1983. While production has ended, many ITE breakers remain in critical service. Group CBS maintains extensive ITE inventory and provides full lifecycle support.
Product Lines
Allis-Chalmers
Allis-Chalmers was a major manufacturer of electrical distribution equipment until exiting the business in the 1980s. Their medium voltage air and vacuum breakers remain in service at utilities and industrial facilities. Group CBS provides expert support for Allis-Chalmers breakers.
Allis-Chalmers exited the electrical equipment business in the 1980s. Their medium and high voltage breakers remain in critical service and require specialized expertise for maintenance and replacement.
Product Lines
McGraw-Edison
McGraw-Edison, formerly Cooper Industries and now part of Eaton, produced medium and high voltage switchgear and reclosers. Their products remain widely installed in utility distribution systems. Group CBS provides comprehensive support for McGraw-Edison equipment.
Product Lines
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you source obsolete circuit breakers that are no longer manufactured?
Yes. Group CBS maintains a worldwide network of suppliers and surplus dealers specializing in obsolete electrical equipment. We can source discontinued breakers from Westinghouse, Federal Pacific, ITE, Allis-Chalmers, and legacy models from GE, Siemens, and Square D.
What options exist for replacing an obsolete circuit breaker?
Options include sourcing a direct replacement from surplus inventory, refurbishing an existing unit, upgrading to a modern compatible replacement, or retrofitting the switchgear for a new breaker type. Our engineers can evaluate your application and recommend the most cost-effective approach.
How long does it take to source an obsolete breaker?
Availability varies by model. Common obsolete models like GE AK, Westinghouse DB, and ITE K-Line are typically available within 5-10 business days. Rare models may take longer. Emergency sourcing is available 24/7 for critical situations.
Do refurbished obsolete breakers come with a warranty?
Yes. All refurbished breakers from Group CBS include a comprehensive warranty covering parts and labor. Warranty terms vary by product type - contact us for specific details on your equipment.
Need an Obsolete Circuit Breaker?
Submit your part number or equipment details. Our team will search our network and provide availability, pricing, and alternatives if a direct replacement isn't available.