The rising use of MCCBs in industrial and commercial spaces clearly implies that these have numerous advantages in the industry. Not only do these guard a circuit from an overcurrent or a short circuit but they are also helpful in protecting electrical equipment. In case you are still wondering about the hows and whys, think no more.
In this article, we have explained what MCCBs are, how they operate, and their numerous benefits. So without delaying further, let’s delve into the details.
What is an MCCB?
MCCB stands for molded case circuit breaker. As their name suggests, they are used for breaking the circuit in the case of a short circuit and overcurrent, thus guarding the circuit. These electromechanical devices are utilized for controlling the electric energy in distribution as well.
What are MCCBs Made of?
An MCCB is made from a trip button, a handle/trip-free mechanism, a magnetic trip unit, a thermal trip unit, a terminal connector, an operating mechanism, contacts, and an arc chute.
Are MCCBs the same as MCBs?
Molded Case Circuit Breakers are basically an advanced version of MCBs or Miniature Circuit Breakers. They are the same in the manner that they operate similarly. Nonetheless, MCCBs offer additional features like adjustable trip settings and remote closing.
What is the Function of an MCCB?
MCCBs have numerous functions, all associated with protection. To begin with, these protect against overloading. This is when the current exceeds a predetermined limit for a certain duration.
Further, MCCBs protect against short circuits, that is when the live wire comes into contact with a neutral or live wire. Through the existence of MCCBs, fire hazards, and electric equipment damage can be prevented.
How do MCCBs Operate?
MCCBs utilize a thermal element, which is a temperature-sensitive device, along with a magnetic element, which is a current-sensitive electromagnetic device. These offer the trip mechanism for isolation and protection purposes. Overall, these aid in the following:
Electrical Switch for Disconnection
MCCBs can be utilized as manual disconnection switches, especially in the case of maintenance operations or emergency cases. When the contact opens, an arc can be formed. To fight this, MCCBs comprise internal arc dissipation mechanisms that allow for the quenching of the arc.
Protection Against Short Circuit Currents
in case of a short circuit fault, a large current starts flowing through the solenoid coil. This results in the establishment of a strong electromagnetic field, which opens the contacts by attracting the trip bar.
Protection Against Overload
The temperature-sensitive component through MCCB offers protection against overload. In case the current exceeds the trip value, the bimetallic contact begins heating and bending away because of the varying thermal rates of expansion. Eventually, the circuit is interrupted.
Benefits of Using MCCB
There are several advantages of using MCCB for commercial or industrial purposes. So if you are planning to install an MCCB at your workspace, you will be delighted to know what these benefits are.
Ease of Installation
First and foremost, MCCBs are compact in size, which means they require lesser space and can be installed anywhere. Moreover, it is very easy to move as well as handle and thus, easy to install.
Protection of Power Circuit
The key advantage of MCCBs is associated with the protection of the power circuit from faulty electric currents, such as a short circuit or an overcurrent. Moreover, these products can easily sense such faults and guard the system against hazardous conditions like fire.
In the case of a fault, MCCBs take very less time for resetting and switching on. Besides, they have high carrying current capacities, which range from 100A to 1kA, and interrupting ratings between 480V and 150kA. This makes it perfect for industrial and commercial applications due to the ability of carrying large currents.
Time and Cost Efficient
The double insulation technique of MCCBs implies that the electrical accessories can be mounted directly with the installation of the circuit breaker. This results in high efficiency and thus saves costs as well.
Final Word
MCCBs are ideal for commercial spaces due to their ability to carry large loads of current. In fact, you can look for MCCBs online at L&T-SuFin and choose from a wide variety of these products. Remember to carefully consider your building needs before purchasing.