What is MCB in electrical systems? It’s an evolved safety feature integral to preventing electrical damage, such as short circuits and overloads, to electronics.
The MCB is just one modern way to regulate power fluctuations and prevent circuit overloads. The article below explains how.
What Is an MCB Circuit Breaker?
What is an MCB circuit breaker? The miniature circuit breaker definition is as follows: an electromechanical device that protects electrical currents from short circuits or overloads.
Fuse wire was the go-to choice for this safety measure in older electrical systems. During an overcurrent, the fuse would blow because the extra energy quickly burned and melted the fuse wire, breaking the electrical connection.
The short way of answering “What is MCB?” is to say that these safety devices perform the same function as fuse wires without suffering extensive damage from the over-current. While MCBs won’t protect you from electrical shock, they’re generally safer and easier to use.
What Is a Miniature Circuit Breaker’s Characteristics?
An MCB has a couple of characteristics. Its overload current rating is in amperes or (A). The miniature circuit breaker will cut power if too many electrical devices or appliances pull from a single circuit.
The short circuit rating of an MCB is in kilo amperes or (kA). The rating for MCB in residential buildings is usually at 6,000 amps or 6kA. For commercial and industrial uses, the MCB short circuit rating is 10kA at 415v to accommodate heavy machinery.
How Does a Miniature Circuit Breaker Work?
Now that you know the answer to “What is an MCB circuit breaker?” it’s time to learn how it works. When an electrical current that’s too strong for the circuit triggers the miniature circuit breaker, the bimetallic strip inside the device heats up. As it heats, the strip will flex and trip the breaker.
When the breaker trips, the electrical contact points separate, initiating an electrical discharge. The arc chute or insulted metal strip inside the MCB cools the contact points. After the electrical contacts cool and the fault is no longer present, the contacts close and the MCB resets.
What Types of MCBs Are Available?
MCBs come in multiple forms, with each option offering a different level of protection against short circuits and circuit overloads. Here are some of the most common MCB types:
- Type A for over-current protection in circuits with a constant, near-predictable current
- Type B for over-current and short-circuit protection where electrical loads vary
- Type C for over-current and earth fault current protection, most suitable for sensitive electronic equipment
Contact ESD LLC Today for More MCB Help
We here at ESD LLC are glad to answer questions like “What is MCB in electrical?” and “What is the MCB type I need?” We’re a top provider of electrical accessories and circuit breakers in Northwest Washington, so our specialists know how to answer questions accurately and provide viable options for residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems.
With our ten-plus years of electrical industry experience, we can guarantee your satisfaction. Call 425-419-4167 or contact ESD LLC today via our online form for more details.
