Several types of circuit breakers are available in Singapore’s commercial market. Electricity powers homes, offices, and industries. But electrical faults can cause fires and damage. A circuit breaker is the key to prevent these dangers. It stops the current when a fault happens.
Different circuit breakers suit various needs. It is important to know their types and uses to ensure safety and efficiency. Therefore, this article explains the most common types of circuit breakers used to protect the electrical circuit.
Different Types of Circuit Breakers in Singapore
Circuit breakers are the protective devices that make or break the electrical circuit based on the current flowing through it. When a fault occurs in the electrical circuit, the current exceeds an allowable limit. This can damage the wiring and cause electrical fires.
A circuit breaker breaks the circuit in the event of an electrical fault. The circuit breaker operates on the advice of a relay that gives it a trip signal when there is an abnormal situation in the circuit.
Therefore, the importance of circuit breakers is rising in Singapore’s compact spaces. LS Electrician Services Singapore explains the most common types of circuit breakers with their working mechanism and usage. If you are unsure which circuit breaker to use, you can avail yourself of their switch installation, light bulb replacement, and power socket installation services in Singapore.
Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB)
MCBs protect small circuits. They stop the flow of electricity when an overload happens. These breakers are suitable for homes and small buildings. They react fast to excess current and prevent damage to appliances and wires.
MCBs are easy to reset after a trip. These uses of circuit breaker types make them convenient for everyday use. They also help in situations where frequent switching of circuits is needed. Moreover, their compact size makes installation simple.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB)
MCCBs handle higher currents than MCBs. They work well in commercial buildings and industrial setups. These breakers stop short circuits and overloads. MCCBs have adjustable trip settings, so users can set limits based on their needs.
Their strong design makes them last long, even under heavy loads. They provide better protection than MCBs for electrical panels. MCCBs are ideal for areas that need high power capacity.
Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB)
RCCBs focus on protecting people. They detect leakage current and stop power to prevent electric shocks. These breakers are common in homes and workplaces. RCCBs react fast to faults and reduce the risk of serious injury.
They work best with a proper grounding system for complete safety. Electrical leaks usually go unnoticed. Therefore, they are dangerous, but RCCBs provide extra protection. They also prevent fires caused by faulty wiring.
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB)
ACBs handle large electrical loads, protect big industries, power plants, and commercial buildings, stop high-voltage currents, and prevent fires. They work by using air to put out the arc when breaking the circuit.
ACBs are reliable for high-voltage electrical systems. They also allow remote operation, which makes them useful in places where manual access is difficult. They provide stability and protection in environments with high energy demands.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB)
VCBs use vacuum technology to break the circuit. They are suitable for medium-voltage applications. These breakers prevent sparks and reduce wear on electrical contacts. Their long life and low maintenance make them a good choice for industrial use.
VCBs perform better in harsh environments where dust and moisture are present. They are safer because the vacuum prevents fire hazards.
Oil Circuit Breaker (OCB)
OCBs use oil to stop arcs when the circuit breaks. The oil absorbs heat and prevents sparks from spreading. These breakers work in power stations and high-voltage grids. Regular maintenance is needed to check the oil quality.
Despite this, they are effective in handling heavy electrical loads. The oil helps cool down the system and makes it reliable for large-scale electrical networks. OCBs are often used in outdoor substations.
SF6 Circuit Breaker
SF6 breakers use sulfur hexafluoride gas to stop electric arcs. They are generally used in high-voltage applications. These breakers are reliable and last long. They also reduce wear on electrical parts.
SF6 breakers help in large power systems where safety and performance matter. The gas provides excellent insulation and reduces the risks of short circuits. SF6 breakers are common in electrical grids that supply power over long distances.
Conclusion
Different types of circuit breakers keep electrical systems safe. MCBs and MCCBs are better for homes and businesses. RCCBs protect against shocks. ACBs, VCBs, and OCBs handle larger electrical loads. SF6 breakers are ideal for high-voltage networks.
Choosing the right breaker prevents damage and ensures safety. Understanding their uses helps select the best one for every need. Each type serves a specific purpose. With the right breaker, homes and industries can function without unnecessary electrical risks.