MCCB, or Moulded case circuit breaker, are essential devices that block the high electricity in a wiring to prevent damage caused by overcurrent, short circuits, and other problems.
Thus, they’re used for larger industrial and commercial uses.
Continue reading to learn more about these devices, such as their working principle, ratings, and so on.
MCCB or Molded Case Circuit Breaker is what is used to protect electrical systems from overloads, short circuits, and other electrical anomalies. They are a type of circuit protection designed to handle higher currents which is why they’re often used in industrial and commercial settings.
Here are the key characteristics of MCCBs:
Integrated design: The molded case design of MCCBs houses all internal components. This includes the tip mechanism and durable contacts, within a durable casing.
MCCBs (Moulded case circuit breakers) are devices that protect electrical systems from errors, including overloading. Therefore, they are capable of handling high electric currents and provide quick tripping when a fault arises in the system. It has numerous components that contribute to its working principle, which are:
This device uses both thermal and magnetic trip systems. The trip mechanism is triggered when the amount of electricity flowing through the circuit surpasses its maximum rating for a long time. The bimetallic strip’s bends and moves the two contacts apart from each other, interrupting the flow.
Meanwhile, the solenoid creates a magnetic field that pulls the plunger connected to the trip system when there’s a short circuit. Thus, the contacts will open instantly in response. Furthermore, the arc extinguishing device will ensure that it will reduce hazardous electrical sparks when the contacts separate.
MCCBs have several key components that make them work the way they do: the trip mechanism, contacts, and thermal and magnetic elements.
The trip mechanism is responsible for activating the circuit breaker when an abnormal current condition is detected. Contacts ensure efficient current interruption. They are typically made of high-quality materials like silver alloys. Thermal and magnetic elements work in tandem to detect overloads and short circuits.
Standard MCCBs are the most common of all. They are designed for general-purpose applications and are widely used in commercial and industrial settings.
Electronic trip MCCBs incorporate advanced electronic components for more precise and adjustable trip settings. They provide additional features such as adjustable trip curves and communication capabilities for more sophisticated protection and monitoring.
MCCB Type | Applications | Ideal for |
Type B | Lighting, heating systems, low fault currents | Resistive loads in commercial and industrial buildings |
Type C | Power distribution systems, moderate surge currents | Systems with motors and inductive loads |
Type D | High inrush currents, heavy-duty machinery | Industrial applications with high inrush currents like motors and transformers |
Type K | High inrush currents, industrial power systems | Inductive loads, large motors, pumps, and transformers |
Type Z | Sensitive electronic systems, short circuit protection | Computers, medical equipment, and sensitive circuits |
This type of MCCB combines both thermal and magnetic trip mechanisms. The thermal element responds to prolonged overcurrents, while the magnetic element reacts to sudden short circuits.
Ground fault MCCBs or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI), are designed to protect against ground faults by quickly disconnecting the circuit when a ground fault is detected. They are commonly used in areas where electrical equipment might come into contact with water.
When choosing MCCBs, these are some features to look for:
These devices have multiple ratings that determine their type and how much electrical current they can handle, which are some of the following:
Rating | Definition | Available Options |
Current rating (A) | The measurement of the maximum electric flow they’re capable of sustaining without activating the trip mechanism. | They are available in various current ratings such as:100a MCCB63 amp MCCB250 amp MCCB400 amp MCCB |
Interrupting Rating (kA) | The maximum amount of electricity caused by a short circuit the device can handle and trip without damage. | Usually starting at 10 kA (10,000 amps) to 150 kA (150,000 amps). |
Rated working voltage (V)Ue | The highest possible voltage the device can manage during regular use. | Their rating began from 120V to 600V. Although some manufacturers offer as high as 1500V |
Industrial | They are used for large motors, machinery, and other equipment that need high electricity while preventing damages from short circuits and overloads. |
Commercial | They are utilised in many commercial settings for different purposes, such as HVAC systems, elevators, and much more, to guarantee the building’s power lines remain safe. |
Renewable energy system | The power could vary in these systems due to the changing conditions in the sun and wind. As a result, MCCB can avoid overheating and other serious damage to the system. |
They are highly susceptible when exposed to severe conditions. According to Young-Maan Cho et al.’s studies, exposing them to higher temperatures, such as 45°C, can have a negative impact on their performance. This is because they’re prone to overheating due to the large electric currents they carry.
Furthermore, their materials insulation resistance can degrade under high humidity. This possibly leads to electric current flowing through unintended pathways, creating hazards such as electric shocks and fire.
This explains why some manufacturers, like iALLWay, have MCCB requirements that state that when the ambient air temperature is +40°C, the relative humidity shall not exceed 50°C.
Hence, they need regular checking and maintenance to maintain their excellent performance. Also consider looking for ones with a high IP rating or using anti-corrosion coatings and dehumidifiers in highly corrosive environments.
MCCB are capable of managing higher electric current flowing in the circuits, which ranges from 100 amps to 2500 amps. While a traditional circuit breaker can usually handle 800 amps only.
Thus, MCCBs are more preferable to larger commercial and industrial environments. On the other hand, traditional circuit breakers are appropriate for use in small commercial and residential settings.
However, this increases the cost and space requirements of MCCB in comparison to traditional circuit breakers
For high-quality Molded Case Circuit Breakers, iALLWay is a brand that you can rely on. The company offers a wide range of MCCBs that cater to different needs. These include commercial and industrial applications.
With their expertise and commitment to quality, iALLWay ensures that you have access to top-notch MCCBs that meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
MCCBs are indispensable components of electrical systems. But if it’s quality MCCBs you’re looking for, look no further than iALLway MCCBs.
We offer a wide range of premium MCCBs you can rely on to protect your electrical system. Whether you’re looking for an MCCB with adjustable settings, current ratings, and high breaking capacity, iALLway has it.
Contact us today for a quote or visit our website for more information!
Resources:
DC Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB) Applied for Solar Photovoltaic Systems
MCCB vs MCB: Understanding the Key Differences in Circuit Breakers
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[…] MCCB circuit breakers (Moulded Case Circuit Breakers) are designed to protect against overloads and short circuits. They are suitable for higher current applications (their current rating ranges from 10 amperes to several hundred amperes). They are also known for their large and robust construction due to their higher current-carrying capacity. […]
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[…] Molded Case Circuit Breakers or MCCB circuit breakers have become indispensable components in various industries because they help ensure the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems. […]