Even though electricity has become an essential part of our lives, it indeed poses risks to both human life and property. Due to the two main threats linked with electricity—electrocution and fire—one cannot afford to be careless when it comes to insulating equipment.
When it comes to safeguarding electrical circuits, a Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) is a crucial component. It is a current detecting device, and anytime a defect develops in the connected circuit or the current exceeds the rated sensitivity, it can automatically measure and terminate the circuit.
RCCB is very useful in situations of unexpected earth fault because it works to protect a person from the risk of electric shocks, electrocution, and flames. Due to the RCCB’s presence, the circuit will trip promptly in such circumstances, protecting the victim from receiving an electric shock.
Principle Behind RCCB
Kirchhoff’s law specifies that an electrical circuit’s incoming and outgoing currents must be equal and serves as the foundation for RCCB. RCCB compares the current values that differ between live and neutral wires in this manner.
The current going through the neutral wire should be equal to the current flowing into the circuit from the live wire. The difference between the two currents, known as residual current, is reduced in the event of a fault. When the RCCB detects a residual current, it is activated to shut off the circuit,
Characteristics of RCCB
The following are the primary qualities of an RCCB:
- RCCB is used to connect the phase and neutral wires.
- Every time a ground fault occurs, the circuit trips.
- The amount of current flowing through the line should return to zero.
- These shock absorbers are quite effective.
Benefits of RCCB
- Protects against both earth faults and any leakage current
- When the rated sensitivity is surpassed, the circuit is automatically cut off.
- Provides the option of dual termination for connections to busbars and cables.
- Contains a filtering component that protects against transient voltage levels, protecting against voltage fluctuation.
Different Types of RCCBs
There are two types of RCCBs – 2 Pole RCCBs & a 4 Pole RCCB
2-pole RCCB
It is used in a single-phase supply that has just a live wire and a neutral wire. It has two ends, where the live wire and neutral wire are joined. The RCCB can be turned on and off using a rotary switch. It also contains a test button that helps with routinely checking the RCCB’s operation.
4 Pole RCCB
In a 3-phase supply connection with a neutral wire and 3-phase wires, a 4-pole RCCB is used. The neutral wire and the three-phase wires are connected at both devices’ two ends. The other aspects of the task are similar between the 2 and 4-pole RCCBs; this is the only distinction.
How to Choose the Right RCCB Supplier
An essential safety feature that belongs in your circuit is the RCCB. It aids in preventing bad outcomes brought on by earth faults. No one will suffer a fatal injury from an accident like touching a live wire, thanks to a high-quality pair of RCCBs.
For the best quality RCCBs that will ensure the highest level of protection, you should first do in-depth online research to determine which company offers the best quality and price. While you might find several manufacturers, it is important to keep a lookout for those that offer the best in the business.
Once you find one, get in touch with them quickly. You will find their contact details like email ID and phone number on their website. Explain your requirement for RCCB and see that they are met. Most of the top suppliers also offer installation services along with a discount for the product that is being purchased.
