Beginning home masters often naively believe that if the outlet is designed for current loads up to 16 A, then automation should correspond to this parameter. In fact, things are a little different. Quite often, AB 6 A or 10 A is used to protect the home network. Here everything depends on the cross-section of cables and equipment that will be connected to a particular line. In addition, if a 10A machine is installed, you should not think that at 11 A it will work. With the group of time-current characteristic “C”, it can withstand a current load of 30 A. But first things first.
Main characteristics of machines: what to look for
It should be understood that by installing a more powerful AV during wiring that is not designed for such currents, the home master will only make it worse. The fact is that the circuit breaker "does not matter" what happens to the outlet or equipment. It is designed to protect wires from overheating due to overloads or short circuits. Of course, it was said exaggerated, but it does not change the essence. That is why it is better if the face value AB is lower.
The 10A machines are most convenient for protecting a home network. When working with lighting groups, they behave very dignified. If we talk about lines of force, then it is better to break them into rooms. More powerful protective automation pays off only if you turn on equipment such as an electric water boiler. Even for connecting a washing machine that consumes 2 kW, a 10A circuit breaker is enough. In this case, the cable cross-section should not be less than 1 mm 2 for copper and 2 mm 2 for aluminum. A sufficient outlet rating here can be considered 10 A.
Device circuit breakers
If you think about it, then everything is pretty simple. Inside the plastic case is a movable stem around which a static solenoid is located. At normal current, the device operates in normal mode. If the indicator increases, the rod is pushed out through the magnetic field created by the solenoid, and, acting on the lever, turns off the voltage supply. Additional protection is provided by a bimetallic plate, which, when a certain temperature is exceeded, changes its shape and also contributes to cut-off.
The most famous manufacturers of automatic machines
Despite the huge assortment of similar products on the Russian shelves, the consumer is not loyal to everyone. Some brands are more popular, others less. The main confidence of buyers was won by ABB 10A and IEK 10A machines. According to users, the products of these brands have the most optimal ratio of price and quality. It is worth noting that experts are of the same opinion. Let's consider them in more detail.
Automatic 1p 10A VA47-29 from IEK and its features
If we compare this AB with ABB, then the main characteristics are similar. They have the same ratings, the permissible number of operations and the cost - from 90 to 150 rubles. However, IEK 1p 10 A VA47-29 has one very important feature: it is able to work not only in a vertical position, but also in a horizontal one. Not every circuit breaker boasts similar.
This AB allows you to connect fairly thick wires with a cross section of up to 25 mm 2 . The manufacturer guarantees the operability of the equipment for 6,000 operations in emergency mode and 10,000 in mechanical mode. However, this does not imply that they will withstand 6,000 short circuits. It is only about overloads.
A little more about AB in the next video.
Residual current circuit breakers
Such devices require special attention. Their main advantage is versatility. Differential automatic machines 10A combine the functionality of conventional AB and residual current circuit breakers , which can be a very big plus in conditions of lack of free space in the input distribution cabinet. And the additional protection of a person from electric shock can also not be discounted. However, in addition to the obvious positive aspects, the AVDT also has disadvantages that cannot be kept silent.
The disadvantage that immediately catches your eye is the cost, which is significantly higher than the usual AB and RCD combined. But you have to pay for convenience, especially since there are more serious flaws. For example, when an AEDT is triggered, it can be quite difficult to determine its cause: whether it was a leak, short circuit, or overload on the line. In addition, if one of the nodes of the differential current circuit breaker fails, the entire expensive protection element will have to be replaced, while if an RCD or AB burns out, it will be much cheaper to purchase new equipment.
If we talk about differential or conventional automatic machines IEK 10A or ABB 10 A, then their durability is proved by time. And if the manufacturer makes certain promises on timelines, then this can be trusted. Of course, this does not apply to the acquisition of counterfeit products.
How to identify a fake when buying
When purchasing a 10A machine (like any other), you should pay attention to its appearance. From it you can instantly determine what was in the hands. It must be remembered that the manufacturer of a fake will never begin to manufacture automation using expensive parts.
Looking at the side wall of the original product, you can see a small cork made of hard rubber to match the body. Underneath is a bimetallic plate that helps cut off when overheating. It is this knot on counterfeit products that does not exist. The specified cover will simply be drawn on the case; it will not be possible to open it. Of the additional signs, one can name the uneven color of the plastic with extraneous inclusions or stains and large gaps on the sides of the lever.
A few tips for choosing protective automation
Choosing AB, first of all, it is worth calculating its face value, as already mentioned. However, often home masters make a mistake in another - the distribution of lines or groups. It should be noted that you can not connect part of the lighting and several outlets to one machine (for example, in rooms). Here is the approximate location of AB along the lines in a 4-room apartment.
- Automatic 10A on the lighting group of the hallway, living room and kitchen.
- The same for 3 rooms and a bathroom.
- Power line of the kitchen.
- Outlets in the living room and bedroom.
- The remaining power points.
With this arrangement, it will be convenient enough to carry out repairs in the event of an emergency in any of the premises. Lighting does not have to be turned off completely, as well as disconnect all sockets in the apartment, which will allow you to use a power tool.
Summarize the information presented
Automation is necessary when installing a home network - you cannot argue with this statement. However, its incorrect selection can negate all efforts and costs. Therefore, before you purchase it and begin installation, you should carefully calculate everything and take into account all the nuances. And the main thing is to be extremely attentive, accurate when performing work. After all, electric shock is dangerous to life and health.