Distribution board circuit breaker
A distribution board (also known as a panel board or breaker box) is an electrical panel that distributes power from the main electrical service to various circuits in a building. A circuit breaker is a device that is installed in the distribution board to protect the circuit from overcurrents and short circuits.
Here's a breakdown of the components:
Distribution Board (DB):
- A DB is a metal or plastic enclosure that contains multiple circuit breakers, fuses, or other overcurrent protection devices.
- It is typically mounted on a wall or in a basement and is connected to the main electrical service.
- The DB distributes power from the main service to various circuits in the building.
Circuit Breaker:
- A circuit breaker is an overcurrent protection device that is installed in the DB.
- It is designed to interrupt the flow of electrical current in the event of an overcurrent or short circuit.
- Circuit breakers are available in various types, including:
- MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker): A compact, low-voltage circuit breaker that is commonly used in residential and commercial applications.
- MCCB (Molded Case Circuit Breaker): A higher-voltage circuit breaker that is used in industrial and commercial applications.
- ELCB (Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker): A device that detects earth leakage currents and trips the circuit in the event of a fault.
How it works:
- Power from the main electrical service enters the DB.
- The power is distributed to various circuits through the circuit breakers.
- Each circuit breaker is designed to interrupt the flow of current in the event of an overcurrent or short circuit.
- If an overcurrent or short circuit occurs, the circuit breaker trips, interrupting the flow of power to the affected circuit.
- The circuit breaker can be reset once the fault has been cleared.
Benefits:
- Circuit breakers provide overcurrent protection, which helps to prevent electrical fires and damage to equipment.
- They are designed to trip quickly in the event of a fault, reducing the risk of damage to equipment and minimizing downtime.
- Circuit breakers are easy to install and maintain, and they can be reset once a fault has been cleared.
Common applications:
- Residential and commercial buildings
- Industrial facilities
- Data centers
- Hospitals
- Schools
In summary, a distribution board circuit breaker is an essential component of an electrical system that provides overcurrent protection and helps to prevent electrical faults and damage to equipment.