Difference between circuit breaker and isolator switch
A circuit breaker and an isolator switch are both electrical switches used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.
Circuit Breaker:
A circuit breaker is a type of electrical switch that is designed to interrupt an electrical circuit in the event of an overload or short circuit. Its primary function is to protect the circuit and the equipment connected to it from damage caused by excessive current flow. Circuit breakers are typically used in distribution panels and are designed to trip (open) when the current exceeds a certain threshold, usually due to a fault or overload.
Key characteristics of circuit breakers:
- Designed to interrupt the circuit in the event of an overload or short circuit.
- Typically used in distribution panels to protect the circuit and equipment.
- Can be reset once the fault is cleared.
- May have adjustable trip settings to accommodate different circuit loads.
Isolator Switch:
An isolator switch, also known as an isolator or disconnector, is a type of electrical switch that is designed to isolate a circuit from the rest of the electrical system. Its primary function is to disconnect the circuit from the power source, allowing for maintenance, testing, or repair of the circuit without interrupting the power supply to other parts of the system. Isolator switches are typically used in applications where it is necessary to isolate a circuit without interrupting the power supply to other parts of the system.
Key characteristics of isolator switches:
- Designed to isolate a circuit from the rest of the electrical system.
- Typically used in applications where maintenance, testing, or repair is required.
- Does not interrupt the power supply to other parts of the system.
- May have a lockout/tagout feature to prevent accidental re-energization.
Key differences:
- Purpose: Circuit breakers are designed to interrupt the circuit in the event of an overload or short circuit, while isolator switches are designed to isolate a circuit from the rest of the electrical system.
- Function: Circuit breakers are designed to protect the circuit and equipment from damage, while isolator switches are designed to allow for maintenance, testing, or repair of the circuit without interrupting the power supply.
- Operation: Circuit breakers trip (open) when the current exceeds a certain threshold, while isolator switches are designed to be manually operated (opened or closed) by a person.
- Reset: Circuit breakers can be reset once the fault is cleared, while isolator switches do not have a reset mechanism.
In summary, circuit breakers are designed to protect the circuit and equipment from damage, while isolator switches are designed to isolate a circuit from the rest of the electrical system for maintenance, testing, or repair purposes.