What is vcu unit in breaker

In a circuit breaker, VCU stands for "Voltage Current Unit". It's a critical component that plays a crucial role in the breaker's operation.

The VCU is responsible for measuring the voltage and current flowing through the circuit and comparing them to the set trip points. When the measured voltage or current exceeds the set trip points, the VCU sends a signal to the trip unit to trip the breaker, disconnecting the power supply to the circuit.

In other words, the VCU acts as a "sentinel" that monitors the circuit's electrical parameters and takes action when they exceed safe limits. This ensures that the breaker trips quickly and reliably in the event of a fault, preventing damage to equipment, people, or the electrical system as a whole.

The VCU typically consists of:

  1. Voltage sensors: These measure the voltage across the circuit and compare it to the set trip point.
  2. Current sensors: These measure the current flowing through the circuit and compare it to the set trip point.
  3. Logic circuitry: This processes the voltage and current measurements and sends a trip signal to the trip unit when the set trip points are exceeded.

VCUs are commonly used in medium-voltage circuit breakers (e.g., 3.3 kV to 38 kV) and are designed to provide fast and reliable fault detection and isolation.