Introduction to miniature circuit breakers
The role of a miniature circuit breaker is to ensure the safety of domestic, commercial or industrial electrical circuits. These circuit breakers, also known as MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) or, more commonly, ‘modular circuit breakers’, protect your electrical installation against overloads and short circuits thanks to their magneto-thermal protection.
How MCBs work
The miniature circuit breaker enables the emergency shutdown of an electrical installation in the event of an overload or overvoltage. It operates using a technology known as magneto-thermal. As its name suggests, there are two parts to the protection system:
- The thermal protection kicks in during prolonged circuit overloads. It uses a bimetal strip that deforms under the effect of the heat generated by the excessive current.
- The magnetic protection reacts instantly to major short circuits thanks to an electromagnet that triggers the opening of the contacts.
Types of miniature circuit breakers
Miniature circuit breakers are available in several configurations depending on the intended application. The number of poles varies from 1 to 4 depending on the requirements of the circuit to be protected. Single-pole circuit breakers are suitable for conventional single-phase circuits. These different types of products can be adapted to various electrical installations.
The trip curve is a fundamental selection criterion. Curves B, C and D correspond to different types of electrical loads. Curve C remains the most common for domestic and tertiary applications. The pole curve determines the behaviour of the device in the event of overcurrents.
Advantages of miniature circuit breakers
The use of a miniature circuit breaker offers many advantages for electrical protection. Its small size optimises the space available in the electrical panel. Mounting on a DIN rail greatly facilitates installation and maintenance.
The exceptional service life of these modular circuit breakers reduces maintenance costs. Their proven reliability ensures constant protection of electrical circuits against overcurrents.
Choosing the right Schneider Acti9 miniature circuit breaker
At One-Elec, we offer a wide range of Schneider Electric miniature circuit breakers. The Schneider Electric Acti9 range, available from us, is a true benchmark for all electrical professionals. Acti9 is a range of modular low-voltage electrical equipment for your electrical panels up to 125 A.
More specifically, the IC60 circuit breakers in the Acti9 range are the benchmark products in the world of electricity. They combine magneto-thermal protection, fully visible break-off and trip signalling.
All our IC60 circuit breakers are available in 15 different ratings from 0.5 A to 63 A. The operating voltage reaches 440 VAC for an insulation voltage of 500 V. The breaking capacity varies from 10 kA to 100 kA depending on the operating voltage for the IC60N, IC60H and IC60L models.
Please note that the rated current must correspond to the maximum load of the protected circuit. If you have any doubts, please consult our technician, who will be able to advise you on the ideal circuit breaker for your needs.
Installation of miniature circuit breakers
Installing a miniature circuit breaker on a DIN rail is quick and easy. The clip-on mounting system makes it easy to install in the electrical panel. No special tools are required for this routine operation.
The electrical connection is made using screw terminals or automatic terminals, depending on the model selected. Compliance with the recommended cable cross-sections ensures optimal operation of the protective device.
Maintenance of circuit breakers
Maintenance of miniature circuit breakers is generally limited to simple periodic checks. A manual trip test is used to check that the device is working properly. Cleaning the contacts will extend the service life of your products.
A faulty circuit breaker can be replaced quickly thanks to DIN rail mounting. One-Elec has a large stock to ensure fast delivery of your replacement circuit breakers.
Discover our complete selection of Schneider Electric miniature circuit breakers for optimal electrical protection now. Our miniature circuit breakers cover all your professional needs with a universal miniature circuit breaker suitable for every application.
