Welcome to the forefront of Schneider Distributor in Qatar. At our esteemed establishment,being the best electrical supplier in Qatar, we are being proud to offer a diverse range of high-quality products meticulously crafted to cater to your unique requirements. With trusted brands such as Eaton, ABB, and Schneider, we ensure reliability, safety, and efficiency in every aspect of your electrical systems. From residential necessities to industrial essentials, our comprehensive selection encompasses MCB Switchgears, RCCBs, and RCBOs, each chosen to uphold the highest standards of excellence. With us, rest assured that your needs are not only met but surpassed, as we prioritize your satisfaction above all else.
RCCBs, or Residual Current Circuit Breakers, serve a crucial function within protection systems. They act as amperometric safety devices that trigger when there’s a significant leakage of current to the earth. This feature is essential as it safeguards both individuals from electrical shocks and equipment from potential fires resulting from subsequent insulation breakdown.
These devices continuously monitor the combined magnitude of single-phase or three-phase system line currents. They permit electricity flow when this combined magnitude equals zero. However, if the sum exceeds a predetermined value, set according to the device’s sensitivity, the electricity supply is promptly cut off. RCCBs specifically detect current leakage to the earth. For optimal functioning, they should be installed in series with an MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) or fuse. This configuration protects RCCBs from potential thermal and dynamic stresses caused by overcurrents.
Typically, RCCBs are employed in systems that already incorporate MCBs. MCBs preferably restrict the specific energy passing through while also serving as the primary disconnecting switches upstream of any secondary MCBs, such as those found in domestic consumer units.
Type of construction
Detectable wave form
Tripping sensitivity
Tripping time
1. AC type: Designed for alternating current systems exclusively. They are insensitive to impulsive leakage currents up to a peak of 250 A (8/20 waveform), commonly generated by activities like inserting fluorescent bulbs, operating X-ray equipment, or using data processing systems and SCR controls.
2. A type: Suitable for alternating and/or pulsating current systems with DC components. Similar to AC type RCCBs, they are not sensitive to impulsive currents up to a peak of 250 A (8/20 waveform). A type RCCBs are particularly apt for safeguarding systems equipped with electronic devices that rectify current or adjust phase cutting of physical quantities (such as speed, temperature, or light intensity) directly supplied by the mains. These devices may produce pulsating fault currents with DC components, which A type RCCBs can effectively detect.
3. B type: Recommended for applications involving drives and inverters supplying motors for various machinery like pumps, lifts, textile machines, and machine tools. B type RCCBs are adept at recognizing continuous fault currents with low-level ripple, making them well-suited for these operational environments.
ELCBs (Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers) are older devices that detect earth leakages through voltage detection. RCCBs are more advanced, detecting imbalance in current flow, making them more reliable and sensitive in preventing electric shocks and fire hazards.
When choosing an RCCB for home use, several factors should be considered, such as the type of electrical system, the number of circuits, and the sensitivity of the RCCB. Schneider offers a range of RCCBs suitable for residential settings, known for their reliability and ease of installation.Fortunately, you have a reliable source right here in Qatar – we’re an authorized Schneider reseller in Qatar , offering a comprehensive selection of Schneider RCCBs to meet your specific needs.
For home use, ABB RCCBs with a 30mA sensitivity rating are generally recommended due to their effectiveness in providing personal protection against electric shocks.
A common question arises about the difference between RCCBs and RCBOs (Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent protection). The key difference lies in their functionality.
RCCB: Designed to detect and interrupt residual currents (leakage currents) to protect against electric shocks and fire hazards.
RCBO: Combines the functions of an RCCB and an MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker), offering protection against both residual currents and overcurrents (overloads and short circuits).
In conclusion, ensuring the right selection of RCCBs is crucial for the safety and efficiency of electrical systems. Whether it’s the AC type, A type, or B type, each serves a specific purpose in protecting against earth leakage currents. At AMPS Electric Trading, we understand the importance of reliable electrical components. That’s why we offer a range of high-quality MCB Switchgears, RCCBs, and RCBOs to meet diverse needs. Partner with us for peace of mind and superior electrical protection. Work with AMPS Electric Trading for trusted solutions in electrical safety and efficiency.
Author | Electrical Engineer and Tech Blogger @ AMPS Electric Trading