What is circuits breakers

A circuit breaker is an automatically operated electrical switch designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by an overcurrent or short circuit. It is a safety device that interrupts the flow of electrical current in a circuit when it exceeds a certain level, preventing damage to the circuit or equipment connected to it.

Circuit breakers are commonly used in electrical power distribution systems to:

  1. Protect against overcurrents: Circuit breakers can detect excessive currents in a circuit and interrupt the flow of electricity to prevent damage to the circuit or equipment.
  2. Prevent electrical fires: By interrupting the flow of electricity, circuit breakers can prevent electrical fires caused by overheating or arcing.
  3. Reduce downtime: Circuit breakers can quickly and automatically disconnect a circuit in the event of a fault, reducing downtime and minimizing the impact on electrical systems.
  4. Provide fault detection: Circuit breakers can detect faults in a circuit and provide an indication of the fault, allowing for prompt maintenance and repair.

Types of circuit breakers:

  1. Molded case circuit breakers (MCCBs): These are the most common type of circuit breaker, used in residential and commercial applications.
  2. Air circuit breakers (ACBs): These are used in industrial and commercial applications, and are designed for higher current ratings and more robust construction.
  3. Oil circuit breakers (OCBs): These are used in high-voltage applications, such as power transmission and distribution systems.
  4. Vacuum circuit breakers (VCBs): These are used in high-voltage applications, such as power transmission and distribution systems, and offer improved performance and reliability.

How circuit breakers work:

  1. Current sensing: The circuit breaker contains a current-sensing device that monitors the current flowing through the circuit.
  2. Trip point: The current-sensing device is set to trip the circuit breaker when the current exceeds a certain level, known as the trip point.
  3. Arc extinction: When the circuit breaker trips, it interrupts the flow of electricity by creating an arc between the contacts. The arc is then extinguished by the breaker's design.
  4. Reset: Once the fault is cleared, the circuit breaker can be reset to allow the circuit to operate normally again.

In summary, circuit breakers are an essential component of electrical power distribution systems, providing protection against overcurrents, preventing electrical fires, and reducing downtime.