An online guide to Moulded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB)

The modern world is powered by an intricate web of electrical systems. These systems are made up of various devices that ensure a safe and reliable supply of power. MCCBs are an important cog in that system, and function as a shielding device for both equipment and personnel. In this comprehensive guide about Moulded Case Circuit Breakers, we are exploring their construction, operation, selection criteria, and applications.

What is an MCCB?

Moulded Case Circuit Breakers are designed to protect circuits from electrical overloads and short circuits. MCCBs employ thermal, magnetic, and electronic tripping mechanisms to interrupt the current flow when necessary.

Difference between MCCB and MCB

MCCBs differ from MCBs in construction, current handling capacity, and tripping characteristics. MCBs are typically designed for handling lower current ratings and have a fixed current handling capacity, whereas MCCBs are more robust in design and come with adjustable trip settings for handling higher current load and protecting larger circuits and equipment.

Components of MCCB

An MCCB is made up of several essential components, each designed for a specific operation and functionality. Here's how an MCCB is structured in its physical form:

1. Breaker Frame: The outer housing of the MCCB that provides mechanical support and protection from internal components to the user. MCCB housing or breaker frame is made from durable materials such as moulded plastic or metal, hence the name Moulded Case Circuit Breaker.
2. Operating Mechanism: It's the mechanism that allows users to open or close the circuit. MCCBs are both manual and automatic and can have different types of operating mechanisms based on brand, design, and use case.
1. Handle and Lever: A mechanism used in manual MCCBs, to allow manual tripping or reset of the circuit breaker.
2. Motorised Mechanism: Generally found in remote or automatic MCCBs where the circuit breaker is controlled by a switch or control panel.
3. Spring-loaded Mechanism: An MCCB tripping mechanism used for quick tripping action in response to short circuit or other fault conditions.
3. Tripping Mechanics: The tripping mechanics are how an MCCB trips the circuit when overload or short circuit occurs. MCCB tripping mechanisms are of following types:
1. Thermal Tripping: Where a bimetallic strip is used to break the circuit. The metal strip deforms when exposed to heat generated by excess current flow and causes the circuit to break after a preset time delay.
2. Magnetic Tripping: This type of circuit breaking happens through an electromagnet within the MCCB. A magnetic field is generated in response to sudden increase in current flow and trips the breaker almost instantaneously, which is warranted in case of short circuits. 
3. Electronic Tripping: Some MCCBs come with electronic sensors to monitor the current levels and enable precise tripping options depending on current flow and overload situations. These MCCBs offer advanced protection features and customisation options.
4. Contacts: Electrical conductors within an MCCB that make or break the circuit during normal operations and fault conditions are known as Contacts. Types of MCCB Contacts include,
1. Main Contacts: Designed to carry electric current under normal operating conditions.
2. Arc Extinguishing Contacts: Designed to suppress the arc that forms when a circuit is interrupted, these are important for electrical safety.
3. Auxiliary Contacts: Required for signalling and control purposes, these Contacts provide feedback on the status of the MCCB to external devices or systems.
5. Arc Chute: A crucial safety feature designed to extinguish the arc that forms between the Contacts when an MCCB breaks or connects the circuit. The Arc Chute is made from special plates or fins that rapidly cool and deionise the arc, preventing sparking and re-ignition.

While understanding the function and interplay of these components is essential for proper installation, operation, and maintenance of MCCBs, do note that such activities should always be carried by professionals or under professional supervision.

Types of Moulded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs) 

MCCBs come in various types and configurations and understanding the differentiation can help you select the most suitable component for your use case.

1. Thermal Magnetic MCCB 

An MCCB that combines both thermal and magnetic tripping mechanisms for overcurrent and short-circuit protection.

2. Electronic MCCB 

MCCBs that combine thermal and magnetic tripping mechanisms with advanced electronic circuitry and sensors to allow adjustable trip settings, ground fault protection, overload memory and waveform analysis, and have remote monitoring, control, and data logging features.

3. Compact MCCBs

Miniature MCCBs that are typically smaller but offer similar performance to regular sized MCCBs. The compact MCCBs are designed for installation with tight space constraints.

4. High Breaking Capacity MCCBs 

Engineered to handle industrial and commercial current loads, these devices have reinforced internal components and advanced arc extinguishing technologies to suppress high-energy arcs.

5. Adjustable Current MCCBs

Just like the adjustable trip settings offered by electronic MCCBs, these moulded case circuit breakers offer customisable load and trip settings to match the varying requirements of certain systems and equipment.

How to select the best MCCB?

Well, there is no fixed answer to this question as the requirements of users vary case-to-case. However, we do have a few tips to help you buy an MCCB. Check and match the following MCCB features to select the best moulded case circuit breaker for your needs:

1. Current Rating: Choose the rating based on maximum expected current load for the circuit. MCCBs come with varied current ratings, for example Lauritz Knudsen (Formerly L&T Switchgear) DSINE MCCBs have current ratings starting at 16A that goes up to 1250A.
2. Breaking Capacity (kA): Also known as interrupting rating, the breaking capacity indicates the maximum fault current an MCCB can safely interrupt without sustaining damage. Breaking capacity is generally mentioned as 25kA/36kA/50kA/70kA/100kA.
3. Voltage Handling Capacity: The voltage rating of an MCCB should match the nominal voltage of the electrical system for ensuring compatibility and safe operation.
4. Tripping Characteristics: Select the tripping mechanism best suited for your use case. As mentioned earlier, tripping mechanisms are of three types, thermal, magnetic, and electronic.
5. Installation Type and Conditions: Consider environmental factors such as ambient temperature, humidity, and altitude while selecting an MCCB, and also verify its compatibility with the type of installation you have; mounted or wired.

Tips for MCCB installation and maintenance 

Please note that MCCB installation should be done by a professional or under professional supervision. The tips mentioned below are for overview purposes only and should not be taken as an installation guide for laymen.

• Install MCCBs and other electrical components in a dry, ventilated space, away from sources of heat and moisture.
• Ensure proper clearance around the MCCB board for proper ventilation and maintenance access.
• Mount the switches using suitable mounting hardware such as DIN rail or panel-mounting brackets.
• Use appropriate conductors for wiring connections to the MCCB terminals and follow manufacturer's instructions for proper torque values when tightening terminal screws.
• Use proper upstream overcurrent protection devices, such as fuses or circuit breakers, to protect the MCCB from excessive current flow during faults.
• Conduct functional testing of the MCCB after installation, perform insulation resistance tests and continuity checks to ensure the integrity of the wiring setup.
• Regularly inspect the MCCBs for signs of damage, corrosion, or overheating.
• Clean MCCB enclosures and terminals periodically to remove dust and debris.
• Check terminal connections for tightness and torque as loose connections can lead to resistance, overheating, or fire hazards.
• Replace worn out components instead of waiting for them to fail.
• Use manufacturer approved replacement parts to ensure reliable operation.

By adhering to these installation and maintenance guidelines, users can ensure the reliable operation and longevity of Moulded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs).

Application and Usage of MCCBs 

Moulded Case Circuit Breakers are used extensively in both commercial and residential electrical setups. Here's an overview of their application:

1. Industrial Applications: MCCBs are widely used in industrial environments to protect electrical circuits and equipment from overloads, short circuits, and faults. They safeguard critical machinery, motors, transformers, and other high-power equipment, preventing damage and downtime due to electrical faults.
2. Commercial Buildings: MCCBs are essential components of electrical distribution systems in commercial buildings, such as offices, retail stores, and hospitals. They protect circuits supplying lighting, HVAC systems, elevators, and other building services, ensuring uninterrupted operation and occupant safety.
3. Residential Installations: In residential settings, MCCBs are installed in electrical panels to provide circuit protection for lighting, outlets, appliances, and other household loads.
4. Power Distribution Networks: MCCBs serve as protective devices in power distribution networks, ensuring reliable and efficient distribution of electricity to consumers. They protect feeder circuits, transformers, and distribution panels from electrical faults, minimising service interruptions and enhancing grid stability.

Electrical Regulations and Standards: 

Like all electrical products, MCCBs are also subject to international and local regulations for personnel and equipment safety, and environmental impact:

1. International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC): The IEC sets international standards for MCCBs through standards such as IEC 60947, which defines the performance and safety requirements for low-voltage switchgear and control-gear, including MCCBs.
2. National Electrical Code (NEC): In the United States, the National Electrical Code (NEC), published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), provides guidelines for the installation and use of MCCBs in electrical systems. The NEC specifies requirements for MCCB sizing, installation, overcurrent protection, and other safety considerations to ensure compliance with electrical codes and regulations.
3. International Standards Organization (ISO): ISO standards, such as ISO 14001 for environmental management systems and ISO 9001 for quality management systems, may also apply to the manufacturing and use of MCCBs, ensuring adherence to quality, environmental, and safety standards.
4. Bureau of Indian Standards: In India, the safety standards for Moulded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs) are primarily governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which establishes and maintains standards for various products, including electrical equipment. The specific Indian Standard applicable to MCCB safety is:

IS/IEC 60947 (Part 2): Low-Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear - Part 2: Circuit Breakers

This standard, adopted from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard IEC 60947-2, specifies the requirements for low-voltage circuit breakers, including MCCBs, intended for use in industrial, commercial, and residential installations.

Certifications and Compliance: 

1. CE Marking: MCCBs manufactured or sold in the European Union (EU) must comply with relevant EU directives and bear the CE marking, indicating conformity with applicable health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
2. UL Listing: MCCBs tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) meet rigorous safety and performance requirements and are listed for use in accordance with UL standards in the United States and other jurisdictions.

Also Read:  MCB (Miniature Circuit Breakers) Guide - Types, Sizes, And Uses

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