If you work with industrial electrical systems, you've likely encountered the term MCC bucket. But what exactly is an MCC bucket, and why is it critical in motor control and automation?
In this post, we’ll explain what an MCC bucket is, explore its types and configurations, and help you understand how to select the right unit for your facility.
What Is an MCC Bucket?
An MCC (Motor Control Center) bucket is a modular, removable unit installed inside a motor control center. It houses the control and protection components for a single motor or load, allowing for fast installation, maintenance, and replacement.
Each bucket typically contains:
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Circuit breaker or fusible disconnect
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Contactor
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Overload relay
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Terminal blocks
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Auxiliary devices (pilot lights, selector switches, meters)
These units slide into vertical sections of the MCC cabinet and can be easily swapped or serviced without shutting down the entire system.
Why MCC Buckets Matter
MCC buckets are essential for:
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Motor protection – guarding against overload, phase loss, and short circuits
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Efficient maintenance – reducing system downtime with plug-and-play replacements
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Safety and isolation – allowing safe disconnection and lockout/tagout procedures
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Scalability – easily expanding or upgrading motor loads as operations grow
Common Types of MCC Buckets
Depending on the application and the MCC system, buckets can vary in function and configuration. Here are the most common types:
| Bucket Type | Function |
|---|---|
| FVNR (Full Voltage Non-Reversing) | Standard motor starting |
| FVR (Full Voltage Reversing) | Allows motor direction reversal |
| Feeder Bucket | Controls power distribution to downstream loads |
| VFD Bucket | Integrates a Variable Frequency Drive for motor speed control |
| Soft Starter Bucket | Reduces inrush current during motor startup |
| Breaker-Only Bucket | Acts as a power disconnect or feeder breaker |
| Plug-in Metering | For monitoring energy usage and power parameters |
MCC Bucket Sizes
MCC buckets are typically sized in inch heights (e.g., 6", 12", 18", 24") based on the NEMA standard. The size depends on the components inside and the motor’s horsepower rating.
Popular MCC Brands and Series
Some of the most widely used MCC systems and compatible bucket lines include:
| Manufacturer | MCC Series |
|---|---|
| Allen-Bradley | Centerline 2100, 2500 |
| Eaton/Cutler-Hammer | Freedom 2100, Advantage 2100, Unitrol |
| Siemens | tiastar™, System 89, Model 95, Series 200 |
| GE/ABB | 7700 Line, Evolution E9000 |
| Schneider/Square D | Model 6, Model 5, Model 4 |
| Klockner-Moeller | Series 200, Model 90 |
| Westinghouse | Type W MCC |
Legacy buckets from discontinued series are still in demand and supported by retrofit or reconditioned options.
How to Choose the Right MCC Bucket
When sourcing an MCC bucket, consider the following:
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MCC Series and Manufacturer
Match the bucket to the exact MCC cabinet (e.g., Allen-Bradley 2100). -
Bucket Type and Function
Identify whether it's for motor starting, a feeder, VFD, or soft start. -
Voltage and Horsepower Ratings
Ensure the components support the motor's operating requirements. -
Size (Height in Inches)
Confirm the vertical space available in the MCC structure. -
Accessories and Controls
Specify pilot lights, selector switches, HOA controls, and communication options.
New vs. Reconditioned MCC Buckets
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New MCC Buckets are ideal for current production systems.
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Reconditioned or Retrofit Units offer significant savings and are often the only option for older MCC panels that are no longer supported by the OEM.
At AmpState, we stock both new and reconditioned MCC buckets and provide retrofit solutions for legacy systems.
Need Help Sourcing MCC Buckets?
AmpState supplies a full range of MCC buckets across major OEM brands. Whether you're replacing a legacy Allen-Bradley 2100 bucket or upgrading to a soft starter in a Siemens tiastar™ system, we can help.
Our offerings include:
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FVNR, FVR, Feeder, and VFD buckets
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New and refurbished options
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Custom-built and retrofit-ready solutions
Contact us today to speak with an expert or request a quote for your specific MCC configuration. https://www.ampstate.com/collections/mcc-bucket-1
