Circuit breaker diagram with explanation

Here is a simple circuit breaker diagram with an explanation:

Circuit Breaker Diagram:

          +---------------+
          |  Main Power  |
          |  Supply (240V) |
          +---------------+
                  |
                  |
                  v
          +---------------+
          |  Load (e.g.  |
          |  Lighting,  |
          |  Appliance)  |
          +---------------+
                  |
                  |
                  v
          +---------------+
          |  Circuit Breaker  |
          |  (e.g. 20A)     |
          +---------------+
                  |
                  |
                  v
          +---------------+
          |  Overcurrent  |
          |  Detection (e.g. |
          |  Thermal or  |
          |  Magnetic)     |
          +---------------+
                  |
                  |
                  v
          +---------------+
          |  Tripping Mechanism  |
          |  (e.g. Spring-loaded |
          |  or Solenoid)    |
          +---------------+
                  |
                  |
                  v
          +---------------+
          |  Open Contacts  |
          |  (Breaker Tripped) |
          +---------------+

Explanation:

  1. Main Power Supply: The circuit breaker is connected to the main power supply, which is typically a 240V electrical supply.
  2. Load: The circuit breaker is connected to a load, such as lighting or an appliance.
  3. Circuit Breaker: The circuit breaker is designed to interrupt the flow of electrical current in the event of an overcurrent or short circuit. It is typically rated for a specific current capacity (e.g. 20A).
  4. Overcurrent Detection: The circuit breaker contains an overcurrent detection mechanism, such as a thermal or magnetic sensor, which detects when the current flowing through the circuit exceeds the rated capacity.
  5. Tripping Mechanism: When the overcurrent detection mechanism detects an overcurrent, it triggers the tripping mechanism, which causes the circuit breaker to trip (open).
  6. Open Contacts: When the circuit breaker trips, the contacts open, interrupting the flow of electrical current to the load.

How it Works:

  1. The circuit breaker is normally closed, allowing current to flow from the main power supply to the load.
  2. If an overcurrent or short circuit occurs, the overcurrent detection mechanism detects the anomaly and triggers the tripping mechanism.
  3. The tripping mechanism causes the circuit breaker to trip, opening the contacts and interrupting the flow of electrical current to the load.
  4. The circuit breaker remains open until the fault is cleared and the current returns to within the rated capacity.

Types of Circuit Breakers:

  1. Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs): These are the most common type of circuit breaker, used in residential and commercial applications.
  2. Air Circuit Breakers (ACBs): These are used in industrial and commercial applications, and are designed for higher current ratings and more robust construction.
  3. Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs): These are used in residential and commercial applications, and are designed for smaller current ratings and more compact construction.