Circuit Breakers
A circuit breaker is an integrated switch-fuse device used in electrical applications, and normally found in a switchboard, meterbox or meter panel. It monitors and controls the amount of current ( measure in amps) being sent through the connected cables, whilst also being available for use manually as a switch.
Circuit breakers come in a variety of sizes, where size usually refers to the current rating. For most AC systems, such as on the lighting circuit of a house, the voltage is known (nominally 240V AC RMS). So for AC breakers you will find devices marked with the different current ratings. In a typical home, 8A, 10A, 16A, 20A, 25A and 32A breakers are the most common.
For DC applications, such as Solar Generation systems, the voltage of the circuit is not standardised, and depending on the application and scale of the system the operation voltage range varies from 12V DC to 1000V DC, with most smaller grid connected solar systems being between 125V and 400V DC.
How does a breaker differ from a switch or isolator ?
In simple terms, breakers incorporate a mechanism that will switch the circuit off when high current (current above its rating) is detected.
When this occurs, a breaker that was in the “on” position will trip, switching itself to the “off” position and thereby shutting down the electrical circuit (and appliances) it is connected to. Once the problem has been identified, the breaker can be switched back on, without the need to rewire fuses (as in past days). The breaker can also be manually switched off using your hands, in the same way as a switch.
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