Different Characteristics Of MCCB And MCB Circuit Breakers

Over a long period, electricity was humanity’s most dependable and ubiquitous energy source. During this period, the demand for electric power increased dramatically as a share of many countries GDP. Many countries saw the rising demand for electricity as an opportunity and rose to the challenge by investing heavily in infrastructure and increasing output. 

Because of the technicalities involved, people have developed electrical breakers, also known as circuit breakers, to prevent accidents like power overloads. Understanding the distinction between MCB and mccb circuit breakers has become a central topic in modern electrical engineering.

Distinguishing Features Of Mcb And Mccb

  •  Electrical Arc System

The MCCBs manufactured by Legrand & IndoAsian feature an electric arc interruption system that allows for the rapid disconnection of extremely high-current short circuits. 

The contacts’ fast-opening speed, the magnetic field’s dynamic blasting action, and the arcing chamber’s design all work together to quickly extinguish the arc and keep the specific let-through energy I2t and the peak current manageable levels. MCCB has more substantial and efficient arching chambers than MCB.

  • Maintenance

MCB has a simple, secure design doesn’t require regular upkeep or inspections. However, due to its innovative design, the MCCB requires thorough maintenance and inspection. Therefore, applications requiring frequent short-circuit interruption are not good for mcbs.

  • Trip Indication

The tripping state of the MCCB is indicated by the handle stopping in the middle of the ON/OFF range, which occurs during an overload or short circuit. After the initialisation process is complete, turn the ON switch. 

When the handle is moved to the OFF position, the mechanism is reset to its original OFF state, and the released cradle and hook are re-engaged. There is no central trip indicator on the MCB handle.

  • Installation

Due to their larger size, MCCBs have more stringent installation requirements than MCBs. The vast majority of MCBs are either plug-in or DIN rail-mounted.  On the other hand, the moulded case circuit breaker has greater current and voltage capacities and may necessitate alternative installation procedures.

  • Price

There is a price premium for MCCB breakers over MCBs because of their larger size and more complex design. This is especially the case when one considers the adaptability offered by MCCBs in the form of current-setting adjustments, detachable tripping units, and so on.

Compared to miniature circuit breakers, the cost of MCCB can be up to five times higher. The higher current rating and voltage of MCCB breakers contribute to their higher price because they are better suited to larger installations.

  •  Application

MCCBs and MCBs have advantages for different applications. Warehouses, offices and apartment complexes use MCCBs. MCBs are better for residential and light commercial use. MCBs are cheaper and smaller.

Conclusion

Miniature and moulded case circuit breakers from Legrand & IndoAsian are important in electrical safety. When deciding between an MCCB and an MCB, it’s important to consider the devices’ respective sizes, current ratings, interrupting capacities, voltage ratings, and operating characteristics. This ensures that the correct tool is used for the job.