What is a Miniature Circuit Breaker?
Miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) are a crucial part in modern electrical systems. MCBs work by monitoring the electrical current flowing through a circuit. MCB is an automatically operated electrical switch.
They are designed to trip during an overloads and short circuits to protect electrical circuits.
They are called "miniature" circuit breakers because they are more compact and smaller than the conventional circuit breakers. MCBs are typically used in residential and commercial buildings, as well as in industrial applications.
How does the Miniature Circuit Breakers work?
MCB works by interrupting the flow of electricity when the current flowing through it exceeds its rated capacity. When a fault occurs, the trip unit of the MCB detects the fault and sends signals to the operating mechanism, which opens the contacts of the MCB and stops the flow of current.
Two Operating Mechanism
1. Thermal Trip Mechanism
The thermal trip unit protects against overload currents. The thermal element of an MCB is a bimetallic strip that heats up when current flows through it. As the current increases, the bimetallic strip bends due to the heat and eventually triggers the trip mechanism when it reaches a specific temperature.
2. Electro-magnetic Trip Mechanism
The electromagnetic trip unit protects against a short circuit. This mechanism protects against short circuits, which occur when the current flows through a low-resistance path, such as a damaged wire. The electromagnetic element of an MCB is a solenoid coil that creates a magnetic field when current flows through it. The magnetic mechanism is set up to trip at a predetermined current level. The magnetic field pulls on a spring-loaded trip lever that releases the switch, tripping the MCB.
Take Away
MCB are a crucial component in modern electrical systems. They help to protect circuits from overloads and short circuits, helping to prevent electrical fires and other hazards. If you are installing a new electrical system or upgrading an existing one, make sure to take into account the benefits of using MCBs to protect your circuits and keep your premise safe.
At See Kwong we have varieties of MCB for you to choose.
Come visit our Ipoh store or browse www.seekwong.com for more info.
