An RCBO is a type of safety device used to isolate power supplies. Its benefits include enabling single-circuit faults to be quickly identified and isolated. The RCBO can be expensive, but the capital costs of these devices range from around PS25 to PS50. This article will explain the benefits of RCBOs and what each type offers. Read on to learn more! We have also outlined a list of some of the common types.
Uses of RCBOs:
Versatility -
RCBOs are also available in different types, making them ideal for many installations.
Safety devices -
RCBOs are electrical safety devices that automatically disconnect a circuit when it senses an imbalance. These devices protect people from electrical shock by detecting when a current has exceeded a certain amount.
Current breaker -
They catch the current flow from the neutral to the earth wire, and if the return flow is greater than the current flowing, they trip the circuit. They work by detecting if the neutral or phase wire touches the earth, and when this happens, a leakage current flows through the circuit.
Circuit breaker -
Typically, RCBOs are triggered by a fault that causes the line current to exceed the neutral current. They use a circuit breaker known as a CBCT, which detects this leakage current and sends it to the control circuit. If the leakage current is less than 30mA, an RCBO will not trip, but the earth fault trip coil will trigger a trip if it exceeds this limit.
Single-Phase system-
RCBOs use a single circuit instead of multiple circuits, ideal for single-phase lighting systems.
RCBO can protect one circuit without affecting others.
These devices are cheaper and more flexible than their counterparts.
Types of RCBOs:
An RCBO is a device used to prevent electrical shocks and other potential hazards in electrical systems. The RCBO comprises two compartments, one for the MCB and the other for the RCCB.
The RCBO's bimetallic contacts sense a fault condition and trip the circuit.
The MCB and RCCB:
The MCB and RCCB have similar functions, but RCBOs combine protection from multiple fault conditions.
An MCB and an RCBO are similar, except that an MCB can protect against earth leakage currents and protect against short circuits. They both protect against electric shocks, but only one is required per circuit. MCBs protect air conditioners and lighting circuits. RCBOs are best for use in areas with water as they prevent electric shock. If you're unsure which type you need, consult a licensed electrician for your project.
AC RCDs:
Type AC RCDs are commonly found in RCBOs, you should always consider the type of circuit you're connecting. For example, if your course includes appliances that generate different kinds of residual fault current, you should choose a Type B RCBO. The latter is a good choice for residential properties, as it's a good option for future-proofing. For example, RCBOs are useful for EV charging and PV systems.
Features of RCBOs:
An RCBO is an electrical breaker that protects equipment against overcurrent, overvoltage, and earth fault.
They are generally cheaper than the equivalent Schneider or Siemens products, though they have a lower rated current range. They will also not work on DC circuits. However, their high-quality standards help them protect equipment from overload and short circuits and are highly reliable.
They can also be used to organize equipment circuits, allowing you to turn off impacted courses remotely.
RCBOs combine the functions of an MCB and RCCB, providing overcurrent, short-circuit, and earth leakage protection.
They are typically installed as the sole protective device on a circuit to protect the course.
RCBO manufacturers have limited their RCBO features to the most common combinations that customers require. Typically, this includes a Type B or C MCB characteristic and an AC or Type A RCCB characteristic.
Another difference between an RCBO and an MCB is the size. RCBOs are smaller than their older counterparts, making them ideal for small installations. Previously, larger RCBOs were bulkier and took up more space on distribution boards and consumer units. Wiring them was also tricky.
And, of course, they cost more than their smaller counterparts. Regardless, you'll be safer with a smaller, sleeker RCBO.
Post a Comment