Feeder circuit breaker

A feeder circuit breaker is a type of electrical circuit breaker that is designed to protect a feeder circuit, which is a branch circuit that supplies power to multiple outlets or devices. Feeder circuit breakers are typically used in commercial and industrial settings, where they are installed in a main electrical panel or subpanel to provide overcurrent protection for the feeder circuit.

Here are some key characteristics of feeder circuit breakers:

  1. Higher ampacity: Feeder circuit breakers are designed to handle higher currents than residential circuit breakers, typically ranging from 30 to 600 amps or more.
  2. Longer circuit lengths: Feeder circuit breakers are designed to handle longer circuit lengths, often exceeding 100 feet or more.
  3. Higher fault currents: Feeder circuit breakers are designed to handle higher fault currents, which can occur when a short circuit or ground fault occurs on the feeder circuit.
  4. More complex protection schemes: Feeder circuit breakers often incorporate more complex protection schemes, such as differential protection, to detect and respond to faults on the feeder circuit.
  5. Higher voltage ratings: Feeder circuit breakers are designed to operate at higher voltage ratings, typically up to 600 volts or more.

Types of feeder circuit breakers:

  1. Molded case circuit breakers: These are the most common type of feeder circuit breaker, designed for use in main electrical panels and subpanels.
  2. Air circuit breakers: These are designed for use in outdoor or indoor applications, and are often used in industrial settings.
  3. Oil circuit breakers: These are designed for use in high-voltage applications, typically above 600 volts.
  4. Vacuum circuit breakers: These are designed for use in high-voltage applications, typically above 600 volts, and offer improved performance and reliability.

When selecting a feeder circuit breaker, it's important to consider factors such as:

  1. Ampacity: The maximum current rating of the breaker.
  2. Voltage rating: The maximum voltage rating of the breaker.
  3. Circuit length: The length of the feeder circuit.
  4. Fault current: The maximum fault current that the breaker is designed to handle.
  5. Protection scheme: The type of protection scheme required for the feeder circuit.

It's also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and local electrical codes when installing and setting feeder circuit breakers.