The main purpose of the circuit breaker is to stop the flow of power in an emergency. In addition, it is possible to de-energize a certain circuit in the home network, which is especially important when carrying out repair work.
History
The first ABB machines appeared at the end of the 18th century. When certain conditions arise, for example, in the case of a short circuit, they cut off the power supply of the network, which was based on incandescent bulbs. But this feature was absent in commercial devices, and devices that are similar to modern options became widespread much later.
The mechanism was originally based on the design of a magnetic thermal splitter. But because of this, ABB machines quickly became unusable, and their work was notable for the presence of interference. An arc was also often produced, so the introduction of new technology was required.
Features
Electrical work is not very complex, the main task is to comply with all the rules and ensure safety. The circuit breaker prevents the occurrence of a fire hazard due to the operation during network overload or short circuit. There are various types of this device, which are divided into two broad groups - these are AC and DC devices. It is worth examining the first option in more detail, since ABB automatic machines based on direct current are extremely rare in everyday life. Devices are divided according to basic criteria, including operating current, rated voltage and number of poles, all of which are marked in the marking and related instructions.
Rated voltage and operating current
The power of devices connected to the network directly depends on the maximum operating current. That is, when installing a device with an insufficient rating at a high load, it will simply be knocked out. At the same time, the electric shield for a cottage with a power exceeding the required one is not a way out of the situation, since it does not respond to a short circuit. It requires the exact observance of all parameters.
When choosing the rated voltage, it is not necessary to carry out calculations, since devices with a value of 220 V are suitable for a circuit with an appropriate voltage, the same applies to devices with a voltage of 12 V. Depending on the type, the switches can have from one to three poles.
A fairly popular option is the electric residual current circuit breakers . They have a sufficient level of protection, including the ability to protect against current leakage through metal elements.
Connecting the device can be done by anyone, and no special knowledge and experience in electrical work is needed. In some cases, it may be difficult to connect fixed and movable contacts, although there are no established rules regarding this point. The connection option does not affect the operation of the device due to a shutdown following a short circuit or overload.
The choice
When arranging the electrical network in an apartment or a house, the problem often arises of the correct selection of a switch. Since the long life of household appliances and the security of the wiring from the possibility of fire depend on a competent choice, it is necessary to treat it with the greatest attention. First of all, the load on the line and the nominal characteristics of the cable going to the outlet should be taken into account. The most common are electric circuit breakers of electromagnetic or thermal type. The latter is based on the heating of the bimetallic plate when a transition is detected through the set level of the rated current, while the trip lever is moved by the expanded plate. Overcurrents that appear during a short circuit are captured by electromagnetic protection and de-energize the network.
When is specialist help needed?
A circuit breaker, the price of which starts at 1,500 rubles, like other mechanisms, cannot last forever; it breaks down and wears out over time, which makes it necessary to replace it. First of all, before starting work, you need to disconnect the line connected to the device, after which it can be dismantled. Switching off the introductory machine or bag is required to replace switchgears.
It is worth noting that some actions, for example, replacing the bag, should be performed by specialists, since in most cases it is impossible to relieve tension on the switchgear without assistance.
It is necessary to use a multimer to measure voltage after a trip, this will make sure that it is absent. Next, the conductors are detached and the circuit breaker is removed, the price of which depends on its type. Sometimes it is not possible to unscrew the clamps with a screwdriver, in this case it is necessary to bite off the wires with the help of side cutters. This problem does not occur in modern versions, which have special clamps on the lower grips. Thanks to them, there is no need to use special tools for work.
What do you need to know?
Before mounting in the panel, it is necessary to carry out laboratory loading of the circuit breaker. Due to the fact that the independent conduct of these works in domestic conditions can cause difficulties, one can not do without consulting a professional. For installation, the steps are the reverse of those carried out for its removal: mounting the device on a rail, securing and fixing the wiring in the clamps. Next, current is supplied to the electric shield (for giving, for example), the installation can be considered completed in the absence of light or noise changes, in particular crackling or sparks.
Connection
Proper connection of the device is no less important than its installation. In this case, you need to decide on the method, for example, on fixed or movable contacts. According to experts, the first option is a priority, since it is safer for further operation of the electric network.
As a rule, for a 220 V network of a single-phase type, bipolar and unipolar el. automatic machines. In this case, the definition of the installed option does not cause difficulties. Devices with two poles are used to disconnect the zero and phase at the same time, they also have four contacts. The input zero is suitable for the third terminal, and the supply phase is for the first. Accordingly, distribution is performed from other terminals.
ABB three-pole machines are used in the case of three input phases, however, their installation is extremely simple and requires each phase to be connected to the upper clips of the bag.
What are the varieties?
Modular circuit breakers are presented in various versions, the main part of them is designed for circuit breakers and has only one function - protecting the network from increased load. There is a separation by the strength of the transmitted current. To ensure response in the event of an emergency, the device has certain settings for various sensitivity thresholds. They are carried out at the factory, respectively, the devices are sold with marking in the form of a numerical designation of the threshold.
In this case, the calculation of the necessary sensitivity should be carried out both by the total power of consumers of electricity, as well as by the available wiring elements, and wiring.
ABB machines, prices ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 rubles, are divided into three categories according to the speed of response to voltage: high-speed, standard and selective.
The case of all devices is made of durable plastic, on the back side there is a mount that provides easy installation. For dismantling, many models are equipped with a special eye in the upper part, for which it is enough to pull a little.