Circuit breakers are the devices that prevent unforeseen power fluctuations that could damage equipment. They can also protect against faulty electrical loads, which minimizes energy usage.
Choosing the right breaker depends on the system you’re using it for. While certain breakers from different manufacturers may fit in panels from other companies, it’s generally a code violation to use a breaker that doesn’t match the panel manufacturer.
Used Circuit Breakers
There are a lot of different types of used circuit breakers out there. They come in all shapes and sizes and are used in everything from residential to industrial applications. They all offer some form of protection for your electrical wiring by heating up and cutting power when current levels get too high and cause a safety hazard.
In your home's breaker box, each individual circuit is assigned to its own breaker. When a problem occurs, the breaker will 'trip' and shut off the circuit. This is often due to an overload of electricity from too many appliances or power tools plugged into the same outlet. It could also be caused by a short circuit or ground fault in your wiring.
If you're looking for a replacement circuit breaker, it is important to make sure that the new one matches the other breakers in your breaker box. This will prevent any mismatching and potential fire hazards from occurring. Referencing the manufacturer's catalog or part number is usually the best way to find the exact breaker you need.
Another type of breaker you may see in a home is called a ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI. These are very common in wet areas such as bathrooms or kitchens. They monitor the current in a circuit's neutral wire and hot wire. If there is a difference, the GFCI will shut off the current before it can cause a shock.
Molded Breakers
Molded breakers, also known as MCCBs, are found in industrial, commercial and residential power distribution systems. They protect devices from overloads and short circuits by cutting off the current supply when a fault occurs. The main advantage of MCCBs is that their current carrying parts, mechanisms and trip devices are completely contained within a molded case of insulating material. This makes them easy to maintain, even when they are large.
Generally, MCCBs are classified according to their release or tripping curves. For example, type B MCCBs are designed to detect a current that is 3-5 times higher than their rated value within 0.04-13 seconds. This makes them suitable for resistive loads, such as lighting and heating.
Type C MCCBs push the limit further to handle up to 10x their rating, making them ideal for industrial applications involving pumps, fans and motors. Type K MCCBs are similar, but can handle up to 20x their rating for greater protection against high-load events like power surges and overloads.
It is important to keep in mind that different types of MCCBs fulfill distinct protective roles and are designed for specific fault conditions. This means that careful evaluation of your system is necessary to ensure you select the right type of breaker for your needs. When selecting the breaker, you should consider things like its interrupting and close-and-latch ratings, frame size and current capacity. It is also a good idea to check all connections and insulation materials for damage before turning on the MCCB. Circuit breaker for sale at surplusrecord.
Vacuum Circuit Breakers
Vacuum circuit breakers (VCBs) are the most reliable current interruption technology for metal-clad switchgear and require minimal maintenance compared to other technologies. They can be used for systems with voltages up to 33 kV and offer high interruption capability, long operating life, and safety.
VCBs are small and self-contained. They have fixed and moving contacts that are connected to the control mechanism through stainless steel bellows. The bellows ensure that the pressure of the vacuum is maintained at a level below atmospheric pressure. The bellows also prevent the arc from contacting the insulating housing. The contact bounce time for a VCB must meet a technical standard of 2ms.
The main advantage of a vacuum circuit breaker is its superior arc quenching ability. When the arc is interrupted in a vacuum, the electrons, ions, and metallic vapors generated in the arc quickly condense over the contacts, resulting in the quick recovery of dielectric strength. Additionally, vacuum has a much faster rate of improvement than other insulating mediums such as air or SF6.
Air Circuit Breakers
As the need for electricity continues to grow, so does the demand for circuit breakers to protect power lines and electrical equipment. These devices help to prevent overloading, short circuits and other issues that can lead to serious damage or even a power outage.
Air circuit breakers use atmospheric air as an arc quenching medium, unlike other types of breaker that rely on oil or gases. They offer a variety of benefits over other types of breaker, including lower operating costs. Additionally, air circuit breakers are a good choice for applications that require low voltage protection and are ideal for industrial plants, commercial buildings and other locations where space is limited.
The global air circuit breaker market is facing several challenges that can hinder growth and competitiveness. These challenges include strict environmental regulations, the integration of renewable energy sources, aging infrastructure and cybersecurity risks. However, technological advancements are paving the way for new opportunities in the industry.
Whether you need low or high voltage air circuit breakers, surplusrecord is your best source for quality used and new devices from leading manufacturers like Cutler Hammer, Square D, Eaton, GE and Schneider Electric. We also provide a variety of other power system components such as fuses, switches and motor control centers. Our power systems experts can assist with lifecycle management, engineering, installation, maintenance, repairs and training.
