RCCBs

An RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker) is a crucial device designed to protect against earth leakages in electrical circuits. Serving a vital role in preventing electric shocks, electrocution, and electrical fires, RCCBs are indispensable in all domestic installations, with a minimum of one 30mA RCCB required by regulations. At RS, you'll find a high-performance selection of RCCBs and RCDs from top brands like ABB, Schneider Electric, and Siemens, ensuring your electrical systems are both safe and compliant.

Understanding How RCCBs Function

RCCBs are critical in ensuring electrical safety by monitoring and balancing the current flowing through phase and neutral wires. Under normal conditions, the currents in these wires are balanced. However, when an earth leakage occurs, this balance is disrupted, and any discrepancy in current, known as residual current, may trigger the RCCB to disconnect the power, thereby preventing potential hazards. The RCCB detects this imbalance using a sensing coil that triggers a relay, cutting off the electrical supply to prevent accidents. This immediate response helps protect against the dangers of electric shock and fire, particularly in fault conditions where current may otherwise escape through unintended paths.

Exploring Circuit Breaker Varieties

To ensure optimal protection for various environments, understanding the different types of circuit breakers available is essential:

• RCB (Residual Current Breaker): RCBs are pivotal in circuits where human interaction is frequent, as they detect and disconnect circuits with current leakages between 5 and 30 milliamperes almost instantaneously. This rapid response helps prevent dangerous incidents of electrocution and enhances safety in residential and commercial settings.
• RCD (Residual Current Device): An RCD is specifically designed to protect individuals from deadly electric shocks and can mitigate the risk of electrical fires. It acts quickly to shut off electrical power upon detecting fault currents from live elements, making it an invaluable device in safeguarding lives and property.
• RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker): RCCBs are focused on detecting uneven currents caused by earth faults. They operate under the principle that the incoming and outgoing currents must be equal, instantly disconnecting the circuit when discrepancies arise. Their swift action is crucial in preventing severe accidents and ensuring the safety of electrical installations.
• RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent Protection): The RCBO combines the features of an RCD and a circuit breaker to provide a dual-function safety solution. This integrated protection is vital in applications prone to both overcurrent (due to short circuits or overloads) and residual currents, thereby safeguarding against a broader range of electrical hazards.

Types of RCCBs Available

RCCBs are categorised primarily by the number of poles they include and are typically mounted on DIN rails for secure installation in electrical panels:

• 2-Pole RCCB: Designed for single-phase electrical systems, this RCCB connects to a live wire and a neutral wire. It features two terminals for secure connectivity and incorporates a rotary switch for easy operation. Additionally, a test button is available to ensure regular functionality checks. Suitable for residential and light commercial settings, it is vital for maintaining electrical safety.
• 4-Pole RCCB: Suitable for more complex three-phase electrical systems, this RCCB accommodates three phase wires and one neutral wire. It shares similar operational features with the 2-Pole RCCB, including the rotary switch and test button for routine checks. The 4-Pole RCCB is ideal for industrial environments where multiple phases are utilised.

RCCBs also come in a variety of configurations such as 3 poles, along with different current ratings, trip sensitivities, and tripping characteristics. These specifications are crucial and should be selected based on the specific requirements of your installation to ensure optimal protection and compliance with safety standards.

Delivery Information

Experience prompt delivery throughout Singapore with our next-working-day dispatch service for all online orders placed before 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday. This service applies to all in-stock items, including RCCBs, and related products like safety switches and solid state relays. For comprehensive details on all shipping and delivery options, including those for offline purchases and combined shipping, kindly refer to our delivery information page.