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:

1. Power from the main electrical service enters the DB.
2. The power is distributed to various circuits through the circuit breakers.
3. Each circuit breaker is designed to interrupt the flow of current in the event of an overcurrent or short circuit.
4. If an overcurrent or short circuit occurs, the circuit breaker trips, interrupting the flow of power to the affected circuit.
5. 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.