Do you want a solution to protect the low voltage circuit in case of any fault? The residual current circuit breaker is a solution to this problem. In this article, we’ll discuss the residual current circuit breaker, its purpose, and the benefits it can bring for you. So, let’s start:
What is Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB)?
RCCB is a unique type of circuit, which senses the low voltage in any circuit to disconnect it to prevent any damage.
How does it work?
Kirchhoff’s Current Law is the driving force behind this RCCB circuit. According to this law, the incoming current in any circuit should be equal to the outgoing current. In RCCB, whenever a difference in the incoming and outgoing current is recorded, the residual current switches off the entire circuit.
To manage the equality of flowing current, the circuit measures the current at both the terminals every instant. Thus making it possible for the circuit to work.
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Types of RCCB:
Two main types in the residual current circuit breaker exist too.
These include a two-pole and 4-pole circuit.
2-pole circuit: In this circuit, there is a single life and only one neutral wire.
4-pole circuit: In this circuit, four slots are available for the connection in which you can connect three-phase wires and a neutral one.
The sensitivity of the RCCB circuit:
The RCCB circuit is highly-sensitive. It is designed to monitor 10mA of residual current. This is the amount of current that humans can bear with a prickling sensation. However, if the purpose of using this circuit is to prevent electric fire, it can resist up to 300mA as well, making the circuit resistance worthwhile.
Benefits of RCCB:
With this Residual Current Circuit Breaker, you can get the following benefits:
1. It provides real-time protection to the circuits, saving electronic gadgets from a severe problem.
2. Commercial buildings and industries use these circuits to limit the risk of electric shocks.
3. Besides, it can help protect the high-cost machinery and parts as it disconnects the circuit in voltage fluctuations.
Limitations of RCCB:
RCCB can work only with the standard waveforms. In case of any unusual waveforms, this circuit will not work.
You might experience unwanted tripping even because of minor fluctuations that aren’t even dangerous for the machine or the people.
A current overload cannot be detected with this circuit. It only detects the difference in the live and neutral current.
Line-neutral shocks can still exist because the current at the terminals is the same as the line-neutral shocks.
Summing Up:
All these details about the Residual Current Circuit Breaker could have cleared your concept. If you are planning to use RCCB in any circuit, make sure to keep the circuit’s limitations in mind. So you can get the desire results.
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