What Is RCCB Circuit Breaker and How To Install It?

An RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker) is an essential component in numerous electrical installations that are integrated with the role of preventing electric shock and fire due to leakage current. But, in electrical terminology, what is RCCB? An RCCB measures any difference in the current carried by the live and neutral wire conductors because any extra current implies leakage, threatening life and property.

The purpose of RCCB is to virtually ‘trip’ the circuit as soon as such an imbalance is detected. This protective feature makes RCCB an indispensable part of modern electrical systems, especially in homes where electrical safety is the most important.

How Does an RCCB Work?

Before explaining how an RCCB works, it is important to introduce a principle regarding current balance. A normal electrical circuit can be described when the current passes through the live wire; it is supposed to return through the neutral wire. If, for example, people touch the live wire, there will be a leakage current, and since the two currents will not be equal, the RCCB will detect it. The function of RCCB starts, and it initiates the tripping of the circuit to avoid any harm. 

What Is the Use of RCCB?

Now, what is the use of RCCB? RCCBs are mainly employed to protect people. Other circuit breakers protect them against short circuits or overloads; the RCCB is resistant solely to leakage currents, which may result in electric shocks. It ensures that if someone touches a live electrical part, the circuit is interrupted instantly so that no more shocks are fatal.

However, the RCCB circuit breaker also has an important function of fire protection in addition to personal protection. Electrical fires originate from current leakages, and using the RCCB, such mishaps are prevented before the circuit is made live.

Types of RCCB

There are different kinds of RCCB, each of which has been developed to serve different functions. For example, Type A RCCB is intended to detect AC residual current and pulse DC residual current. This type is applied in homes with modern electrical devices, such as computers or washing machines with pulsating current supplies types. Type AC RCCB is designed to protect against only alternating currents. On the other hand, Type AC RCCB is most suitable for detecting the currents. One must be careful when selecting between them because the requirement can vary depending on the electrical system.

RCCB Advantages & Disadvantages

Below are various RCCB advantages and disadvantages that must be mentioned when choosing between this type of circuit breaker and other ones.

Advantages:

• Enhanced Safety: The primary advantage of using an RCCB is that it increases safety for a person and protects him/her from electric current.
• Fire Prevention: RCCBs disconnect the power supply when leakage currents are present, though they should be regarded as another level of protection against electrical fires.
• Reliability: An RCCB acts fast and it can respond in milliseconds. In other words, it is very effective in preventing catastrophes.
• Easy to Use: They automatically trip and do not need extensive management after each incident.

Disadvantages: 

• Nuisance Tripping: It can trip without an actual fault and can be a real hassle in households with delicate electronic apparatuses.
• Cost: RCCBs are relatively costly as compared to traditional circuit breakers.
• No Overload Protection: RCCBs do not protect against overloading or short circuits; therefore, RCCBs must be used with MCBs.

How To Install RCCB?

How to install RCCB? It involves basic knowledge of electrical work and some equipment. 

Steps for Installing an RCCB: 

• Turn Off Power Supply: The first thing to do is always to turn off the main power supply to reduce electrical mishaps.
• Choose the Right RCCB: Like every other product, RCCB has its type, such as Type A RCCB or Type AC. Ensure that you choose one that suits your electrical system needs.
• Connect the RCCB: An RCCB is a device with two principal terminals: one for the live conductor and the other for the neutral conductor. The live wire is connected to the RCCB L terminal, and the neutral wire is connected to the N terminal.
• Grounding: Check that all earth connections are in place to prevent the RCCB from working properly.
• Test the Installation: After fixing the RCCB, use the button to test it. This button generates a leakage current, and if the RCCB trips, then your installation is correct. If it doesn’t, check the connections once more.
• Secure the RCCB: After all wires have been connected and properly checked, install the RCCB securely on the distribution board.

How to Install RCCB in Home?

It is recommended to use Type A RCCB for household purposes since the current electrical appliances duplicate the type. Permitting the structure of an RCCB boosts safety and eliminates electrical dangers in homes to a considerable extent.

Conclusion

An RCCB circuit breaker is essential for electrical safety. It protects individuals from electric shocks. This device also prevents electrical fires. You must know how an RCCB works and what is the use of RCCB. It helps homeowners and electricians make informed decisions about using these devices. When it comes to installing RCCB, following the correct procedures ensures that the device functions effectively, offering safety and reliability to your electrical system.

Read Also -  Types of circuit breakers and their importance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can an RCCB protect against short circuits?

Ans: RCCBs do not protect from short circuits or overload. They will only keep you safe from electric shocks. However, it depends on the class that is fitted in the circuit.

Q2. How are RCCB and ELCB difference?

Ans: RCCB refers to the Residual Current Circuit Breaker. It measures the current imbalance between live and neutral wires. On the other hand, ELCB refers to the Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker. It works where fault currents pass through the earth wire.

Q3. How often should RCCBs be tested?

Ans: This can, in fact, be done every month by pressing the test button that is usually on the RCCB. This way, you ensure that the breaker is functioning properly.