A Quick Guide to Circuit Breakers
Credit to Author: Kavita Manral| Date: Thu, 11 Apr 2019 04:19:41 +0000
In the world of electronics, there are multiple cases and situations where unforeseen mishaps can take place. These disasters can lead to drastic damage and destruction of physical structures such as offices, homes, schools, industries, etc. A prominent case of such an accident is during a short-circuit or any other type of electrical blunder (electric cable faults), when high-fault current flows through the equipment as well as the power network grid itself. This high current potentially damages the equipment connected in the system and the networks permanently. In order to safeguard these devices from damage, these fault currents must be removed from the grid as fast as possible. Even once it is removed, the system must be restored to its normal working conditions quickly in order to supply a reliable quality of power.
In order to ensure timely disconnection and reconnection of various parts of a power system network for protection and control, there must be a unique type of device that can ensure operational safety and control under immense current-carrying conditions. This device is known as a circuit breakers: a special tool which performs the function of switching operations during current-carrying conditions. These types of circuit breakers can be elaborated as below.
This type of circuit breaker, which functions in the air at atmospheric pressure, is known as an Air Circuit Breaker. These breakers have completely replaced oil circuit breakers. Their process of arc quenching control is completely different from that of oil circuit-breakers. They are normally used for a low-voltage interruption.
An MCB is one of the most common devices used to safeguard electrical appliances from potential damages. Using an MCB is electrically reliable, especially when compared to a fuse. A swift restoration of electrical supply is possible as the switch has to be switched on, parallel to a fuse – a one-time device that subsequently needs replacement after accomplishing its purpose.
MCCBs can be described as electrical security devices that can be used with an array of voltages. MCCBs have flexible trip settings and can hold a substantial volume of current ratings. This appliance offers support by integrating a temperature-sensitive device with a current-sensitive electromagnetic appliance. Both these devices then act accordingly on the trip mechanism. They are small and compressed in size. This makes them perfect for saving relevant space while planning and designing electrical panels.
As technology has grown, it has become even more critical to implement safeguarding devices in electrical circuits. It is critical for users to understand the different type of circuit breakers and their applicability before choosing. The utility of electrical systems naturally cannot be emphasised enough. Therefore, it can be concluded that circuit or power breakers favour the notion of optimum electrical safety, while also assuring that any likely problems that might appear due to unavoidable electrical issues can be decreased – if not alleviated entirely.
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