What is RCCB?
A residual current circuit breaker (RCCB) is a residual current device. It is a fundamental device for electrical safety. When a current leakage is identified it terminates the circuit.
Working Principle of RCCB
A residual current circuit breaker constantly monitors for any imbalance between the live & neutral currents flowing through the connections.
The difference indicates leaking current and causes the breaker to trip immediately.
An electromagnet placed between the live and neutral wires detects any difference between the 2 currents. If the differential exceeds the rated residual operating current the electromagnet initiates a device that interrupts the circuit in less than 0.1 seconds, preventing an electric shock.
Functions of RCCB
Several functions must be combined to provide effective residual current protection. RCCBs provide broad coverage by isolating, controlling, and interrupting leakage current.
Types of RCCB
RCCBs come in both
- Electromagnetic and
- Electronic designs
depending on the technique of leakage current detection.
1). Electromagnetic RCCB
A toroidal coil is used to detect electromagnetic imbalances between live and neutral currents. It is less susceptible to interference hazards.
2). Electronic RCCB
These RCCBs can trip at very low current levels of 30mA because of semiconductor-based detecting technology. However, vulnerability to EMI is still an issue.
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