Components of electric breaker
An electric breaker, also known as a circuit breaker, is an electrical device that is designed to interrupt an electrical circuit in the event of an overload or short circuit. The main components of an electric breaker are:
- Main Contact: These are the moving contacts that make and break the electrical circuit. They are typically made of a conductive material such as copper or silver.
- Trip Unit: This is the component that detects the fault in the circuit and sends a signal to the main contact to trip. The trip unit is usually a thermal or magnetic device that is sensitive to changes in current flow.
- Thermal Element: This is a component that detects overheating in the circuit. It is typically a bimetallic strip that bends when heated, causing the trip unit to trip.
- Magnetic Element: This is a component that detects magnetic fields caused by excessive current flow. It is typically a coil of wire that becomes magnetized when current flows through it.
- Arc Chute: This is a component that helps to extinguish the arc that forms when the main contact opens. It is typically a metal plate or a ceramic insulator that is designed to dissipate the energy of the arc.
- Main Contact Spring: This is a spring that returns the main contact to its closed position after it has tripped.
- Trip Coil: This is a coil of wire that is connected to the trip unit. When the trip unit detects a fault, it sends a signal to the trip coil, which causes the main contact to trip.
- Operating Mechanism: This is the component that moves the main contact to its open position when the trip unit trips. It is typically a lever or a cam that is connected to the trip unit.
- Reset Button: This is a button that allows the user to reset the breaker after it has tripped. It is typically located on the front of the breaker.
- Grounding Terminal: This is a terminal that provides a path to ground for the electrical circuit. It is typically located on the back of the breaker.
- Busbar: This is a metal strip that connects the main contact to the trip unit. It is typically located inside the breaker and provides a path for the electrical current to flow.
- Insulation: This is the material that surrounds the electrical components of the breaker and provides electrical insulation. It is typically a plastic or ceramic material.
These are the main components of an electric breaker. The specific design and construction of the breaker may vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of breaker.