How MCB Miniature Circuit Breaker Revolutionizes Electrical Safety?
Uncover the unknown facts on MCB Miniature Circuit Breaker. Get insights on MCB working, benefits, applications, what makes them stand out from traditional devices, types, popular manufacturers, and more. Read this article today to develop a better understanding and peace of mind while selecting your MCB.
May 31, 2023

The importance of safety is undeniable when it comes to certain electrical devices or appliances. It is normal to experience an overcurrent or power surge in a circuit. But ignoring it will only lead you to face damage to various instruments because of short-circuiting.
This situation requires you to use a safety device or element to prevent the current from exceeding a certain value. MCB is your only solution to this scenario. This article aims to provide information on the mini breaker, its working, types, benefits, price, applications, and more. Sounds exciting? Keep exploring to uncover facts!

What is MCB Miniature Circuit Breaker?

You can define Miniature Breaker as an electromechanical component or device. It keeps the current within specified limits, thus preventing overload or short-circuit.

Fig1. What is MCB Miniature Circuit Breaker?

When the circuit breaker detects the overcurrent, it opens up and does not allow the wind to flow into electrical appliances. When the current reaches its desired value, it again closes automatically without manual intervention.

How a Miniature Circuit Breakers Works?

There are two different scenarios and working mechanisms of MCB. These scenarios are in terms of overcurrent and short circuits.
First, consider the overcurrent. When an uninterruptible flow of overcurrent takes place in an MCB. The bimetallic strip heats up and experiences a deflection or bending. This bending contributes to the release of the mechanical latch. The contacts have a direct association or connection with the latch. Opening the latch opens up the references. This eventually cut off the current supply within the electrical system.
Secondly, consider the short circuit. When the power surge takes place or the current rises. This will lead the plunger to displace electromechanically. Plunger has a direct connection with the solenoid or tripping coil. Ultimately, this opens up the latch mechanism, eventually opening the contacts.
This is how it Works. The miniature circuit breaker, which protects overcurrent, is a thermal type. On the other hand, the mini circuit breaker, which protects short circuits, is an electromagnet type.

Miniature Circuit Breaker Diagram

The MCB diagram, along with the name of the components, are as follows for your reference:




Fig2. Miniature circuit breaker diagram

What Are The Advantages Of Miniature Circuit Breakers?

Advantages of this device include:
Highly Compact
The term miniature in the device reflects that they are highly compact. You can easily move or handle this device. It is not going to take up large space in your electrical system.
Short Tripping Time
The MCB will not take an effective amount of time to trip. It features a tripping time in milliseconds. This contributes to high efficiency. You can effectively protect your electrical appliances without putting them to damage risk.
Low Maintenance
There is negligible maintenance requirement for this device. This promotes the hassle-free operation of this device. You don’t need to pay attention to the periodic upkeep of your device.
High Earth Leakage Resistance
Earth leakage cannot interrupt the functioning of the MCB. This ensures the prevention of electric shocks and damage to equipment. You can enjoy added safety and peace of mind in multiple electrical installations.
Highly Reliable
The high reliability determines the increased durability of the MCB. Higher quality materials and production techniques contribute to this. You can enjoy longer and uninterrupted operations with this device.

What are Some Key Miniature Circuit Breaker Types?

Different types have different end features and purposes. Some mini circuit breaker types are:

Type A

Type A acts when the amount of current increases at least 3 times of rated current. This type is especially suitable for semiconductors because of its greater sensitivity to short circuits.




Type B

Type B acts when the value of current increases at least 5 times the rated current. Type B has widespread usage in cable protection and low-power surge areas.


Type C

Type C acts when the value of current increases over 5 up to 10 times of rated current. Both the domestic as well as commercial sectors utilize this mini-breaker. The key components include printers, lighting, IT equipment, transformers, and servers.



Type D

The squared miniature circuit breaker acts when the value of the current increases over 20 times the rated current. Type D is widely employed in motors and features greater resistance.



Type K

Type K acts when the value of current increases over eight up to 12 times the rated current. The main application areas of Type K include winding motors, X-ray machines, and compressors.




How would you compare Miniature Circuit Breaker Vs. Circuit Breaker?

Multiple differences exist between MCB Vs. CB. Find insights on the key ones in the following section:



Fig8. Miniature circuit breaker vs circuit breaker
Size
The MCB's size is smaller than the CB (mini breaker). This led to using MCB on a commercial or domestic scale only. At the same time, CB utilizes on a wider scale in industries or higher power requirement sectors.
Current Rating
The current rating of the MCB is low and generally lies in the range of a few amperes to 125 amperes. On the other hand, the CB features a higher current rating. It generally lies in a few hundred to several thousand amperes.
Tripping Mechanism
MCB has fixed tripping characteristics. They feature a release trip mechanism. While the CB offer adjustable tripping characteristics. They usually feature a relay trip mechanism.
Rupturing Capacity
It offers you a low-level breaking capacity. It can handle low fault currents and facilitate less moderate fault scenarios.
The CB, on the other side, features a high-level breaking capacity. This way, the CB can overcome higher faulty conditions.

How Are Miniature Circuit Breakers Better than Traditional Electric Protection Systems?

MCB is better than traditional electric protection systems in various ways. Consider the following aspect to have a better idea:

Fig9. Advantages of miniature circuit breaker

• Unlike a fuse, the mini breaker has a higher level of sensitivity. MCB can detect any abnormality within the electrical system quickly and automatically.
• The cost of replacement and maintenance for the MCB is very low. While for that fuse, if there is any fault, you need to replace it entirely.
• There is no risk involved in handling the mini breaker, while there is risk involved for the fuse.
• You can easily point out the zone of fault in MCB. While for the fuse, you need to open it up to check and detect which wire is damaged or faulty.
• In MCB, moving the knob can put the current supply in the ON position. While for fuse, this is not the case. It would be best if you replaced the wires completely. Mini breaker features and facilitates convenient usage.

What is the Miniature Circuit Breaker Price?

The first thing that comes to mind when selecting is the miniature circuit breaker price. While there is not a single price, rather it depends on many things:
• Type of the mini breaker you are purchasing
• Total rated current can support
• Materials used in making the mini breaker
Generally, miniature circuit breakers range in price from $2 to $50 for small to high-level models. Also, the price varies from different manufacturers. Brands like ABB miniature circuit breakers, Eaton miniature circuit breakers Siemens miniature circuit breakers, Schneider miniature circuit breakers, and other such brands have relatively high price points, but of course, you can also choose some other brands of miniature circuit breakers that are relatively affordable.

What are the Applications of MCB?

MCB has compatibility with a plethora of applications, such as:

Electric Panels
You can add up to the safety of your home with overload protection. It ensures uniform electricity distribution on a variety of devices. Options exist to utilize them for both commercial and domestic levels.

Lights
MCB plays a great part in supplying electricity to each lighting system within the house. Take this as an example; fluorescent lamps require a larger electric current, while normal light bulbs require a lesser current. MCB acts as a safety device in such a scenario. It caters to lighting safety and quality.

Heaters
You can experience a higher voltage fluctuation when it comes to heaters because of their large power requirement. But with an effective MCB in place, you can eliminate power surges and negative impacts.

Ground Fault Tripping Mechanism
MCB is highly suitable for ground fault scenarios. A ground fault occurs when a live wire touches the transmitter surface, which is not involved in the circuit system. In such a situation, the current flow increases, and the MCB protects it by initiating the tripping.

What Differentiates KEDU Miniature Circuit Breaker from the rest?

Serving globally to a wider range of audiences and industries since 1982. KEDU has over 60 product lines that align with industrial standards and regulations. 160+ highly skilled technicians and well-equipped laboratories make them develop MCBs and electrical accessories incredibly and remarkably.

Each miniature circuit breaker product by KEDU features unbeatable accuracy and precision. You are not going to regret the decision to choose this device. High-tech labs and up-to-date technology play a role in this regard.

KEDU offers state-of-the-art customer service and assistance. Suppose you have any questions in mind or any confusion about product selection. You can call or email KEDU. They will leave no stone unturned to satisfy you and clear your confusion. KEDU offers round-the-clock customer service.

By choosing KEDU, you will get a dynamic range of MCBs, catering to various electrical systems and applications. Regardless of your purpose, you can find miniature circuit breakers for domestic, commercial, and industrial needs. With over 16000 items and options, you will surely get the best fit.

Experience longevity, reliability, and safety to electrical systems with KEDU Miniature Circuit Breaker. Make a Wise move. Invest in Value Today with KEDU.

More News