Having an effective and well-designed circuit protection system is essential in safeguarding both electrical infrastructure and human safety. This is where circuit breakers come in. Also known as electric breakers, these automatic electrical safety devices protect circuits from damage caused by excess current, often resulting from an overload or short circuit.
When a fault is detected, they interrupt the flow of electricity, acting like a switch that automatically 'trips' off. This prevents further damage to the electrical system and safeguards against potential fire hazards and electrocution risks.
Types of Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers come in various types, each designed for specific applications and levels of protection:
RCBO Breakers
RCBO stands for Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent protection. Installed in consumer units, they protect from short circuits, overload current and residual current as they combine all the functions of an MCB and an RCCB.
RCCB Breakers
RCCB stands for Residual Current Circuit Breaker. They are designed to quickly disconnect any circuit as soon as current leaks to the earthing wire. RCCBs are also effective in protecting from electrocution or shock from direct contact.
MCB Breakers
MCB stands for Miniature Circuit Breaker. They are designed to protect an electric circuit from overcurrent only. They do not safeguard people from electric shock caused by earth leakage.
MCCB Breakers
MCCB stands for Moulded Case Circuit Breaker. They are another type of electrical protection device used in higher current rating applications where an MCB would not suffice. An MCCB protects against overload and short-circuit faults. With its high breaking capacity and a wider range of current ratings, MCCBs are typically found in industrial systems rather than domestic systems.
Essential Components of a Circuit Breaker System
A circuit breaker system is more than just the breaker itself. It comprises several key components that work in unison to provide reliable and safe electrical protection, such as the enclosure, trip mechanisms, and terminals.
The breaker itself houses the main contacts, which carry the current under normal conditions. When a fault occurs, the trip mechanism, triggered by various sensors or relays, initiates the opening of the contacts, interrupting the flow of electricity.
Meanwhile, terminals provide the connection points for incoming and outgoing wires, ensuring proper integration into the electrical system. And the enclosure protects the internal components from environmental factors and prevents accidental contact. Each component plays a vital role in the overall function and safety of the system.
Advantages of Using Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers offer a multitude of advantages, making them essential for electrical safety and efficient power management.
- Enhanced safety: Circuit breakers safeguard people and property by automatically disconnecting faulty circuits, preventing electrical shocks, fires, and equipment damage.
- Reliable protection: They provide consistent and predictable protection against overcurrents, ensuring the long-term health of electrical systems.
- Convenience and reusability: Unlike fuses, circuit breakers can be easily reset after a trip, eliminating the need for replacement and minimising downtime.
- Improved workplace safety: In industrial settings, circuit breakers protect workers from electrical hazards, contributing to a safer working environment.
- Cost-effectiveness: By preventing costly electrical damage and downtime, circuit breakers can save businesses significant money in the long run.
Industrial Circuit Breaker Applications
Circuit breakers find numerous applications across various major industries, such as:
- Discrete manufacturing: Industrial circuit breakers protect sensitive machinery and equipment on assembly lines, preventing damage from electrical faults and ensuring uninterrupted production.
- Process manufacturing: In chemical and food processing plants, industrial circuit breakers safeguard critical control systems and instrumentation, ensuring continuous and safe operation of the production processes.
- Energy & utilities: Circuit breakers are integral to power generation, transmission, and distribution networks, protecting against overloads and short circuits to maintain the stability and reliability of the electrical grid.
- Facilities intralogistics: In warehouses and distribution centres, circuit breakers protect material handling equipment and automated systems, ensuring smooth operations and minimising disruptions.
How to Choose the Right Circuit Breaker
When buying a circuit breaker, it is essential to first determine the appropriate type based on your specific application and requirements. You should consider factors like the voltage and current rating of the circuit, the type of load (e.g., resistive, inductive, or capacitive), and any environmental conditions the breaker may be exposed to.
Then, choose the correct trip curve characteristics to ensure proper protection against overloads and short circuits. Also, pay attention to the interrupting capacity of the breaker, which indicates its ability to safely interrupt a high fault current.
Additionally, consider the physical size and mounting style of the breaker to ensure compatibility with your electrical panel or enclosure. Finally, select a reputable brand known for quality and reliability to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Trusted Circuit Breaker Manufacturer, Supplier & Distributor in Australia
RS is a globally recognised and trusted supplier, distributor, and manufacturer of industrial circuit breakers and circuit breaker accessories. In addition to our own RS PRO line, we carry a wide range of types from top brands, such as MCCBs from Siemens, MCBs from Schneider Electric and even electronic circuit breakers from ABB.
Buy Circuit Breakers from RS
At RS, you can find everything you need to ensure electrical safety for your home, office, or industrial facility. From electrical circuit breakers and thermal circuit breakers to industrial fuses, we have everything you need at competitive wholesale rates.
Explore our extensive range of products online and buy our circuit breakers today to experience our quality first-hand. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery Page.
