Difference Between MCB and MCCB

The most of us have at some point heard the terms "MCB" and "MCCB." However, we could hardly tell them apart as laypeople. MCB and MCCB are both types of circuit breakers, but they differ in a few key ways that make them better suited for particular applications. Let's start by determining what the acronyms MCB and MCCB mean. The MCB and MCCB are both abbreviations for miniature circuit breakers and molded case circuit breakers, respectively. Get to know the principles of MCB and MCCB before learning the significant distinctions.

What is MCB?

A micro circuit breaker, often known as an MCB, is an automated electrical device created to guard against harm from excess current, which typically results from an overload or short circuit. Its primary purpose is to stop the current flow when a defect is found. Its underlying theory is really straightforward. Two contacts make up the MCB, one of which is adjustable and the other fixed. The movable contacts separate from the fixed contacts as the current exceeds the predetermined limit, which causes the circuit to open and cut off the main supply.

What is MCCB?    

A molded case circuit breaker, sometimes known as an MCCB, is a type of electrical appliance used to guard against overloading. It is utilized in locations where adjustable tripping is necessary, unlike the MCB. The MCCB has a manually operated switch for interrupting the circuit, and is primarily utilized for high current applications. The MCCB has two arrangements, one for over temperature and the other for over current, according to its operating principle. It has a bimetallic contact that changes size in response to temperature changes. The contact permits current to flow through the circuit under normal working circumstances. The contacts will warm up and expand until they are ready to open, but if the current exceeds the predetermined limit, they will do so.

As a result, the circuit is cut off from the main supply, preventing harm to the machinery.

Which Circuit is better

It is often intended for circuits with large currents. According to their power capacity, the MCCB is more appropriate for high-power applications than the MCB, which is mostly utilized for low-current applications like residential wiring or tiny electronic circuits.

Similarities between MCB and MCCB

The following are some characteristics and capabilities that both MCB and MCCB share:

• Both of these offer a measure of safety.
• The MCB and MCCB detect a short circuit or an overcurrent scenario and safeguard the power circuit.
• They are primarily utilized in circuits with low tension or voltage.

Difference between MCB and MCCB

The capacity of MCBs and MCCBs is the main distinction between them. The MCB with an interrupting rating of less than 18,000 amps and a rating under 100 amps lacks an adjustable trip feature. Therefore, MCBs often serve low current circuits. In contrast, an MCCB with a rating between 10 and 2,500 amps (and an interrupting rating between 10,000 amps and 200,000 amps) has a programmable trip feature. It is often intended for circuits with large currents. The MCB is mostly utilized for low-current requirements, such as house wiring or tiny electronic circuits, while the MCCB is better suited for high-power requirements, if their power capacities are compared.

According to IEC 947 standards, both are considered low voltage circuit breakers, although an MCCB has a substantially larger capacity than an MCB. Some MCCB units feature electrical motor operators that may be tripped with a remote control, which increases their usefulness. MCCBs can be utilized as standby power for commercial or industrial applications that utilize an automatic transfer switch. Both MCBs and MCCBs are mounted in a certain spot on the wall, making it simple to install or remove them without disrupting the entire electrical system or harming the switchgear. These circuit breakers are arranged in rows to maximise space and are specifically made to handle direct current. Circuit breakers are typically reset once they have "tripped"

Remote Feature

Although an MCCB has a greater capacity than an MCB, both are considered low voltage circuit breakers and must adhere to IEC 947 standards. Because their machines contain electrical motor operators, MCCB is outfitted with the unique feature of being tripped only by remote. While MCB does not have this feature

Capacity

Since they are often delivered to low circuits with MCBs rated 100 amps and interrupting ratings under 18000 amps, the trip characteristics of MCBs may not be altered. MCCB, on the other hand, possesses the changeable trip characteristics seen in higher models. MCCBs have interrupting ratings between 10,000 and 200,00 amps and supply amps between 2500 and 10. Thus, it can be concluded that whereas MCCB is better suited for large energy requirements, MCB is typically utilized for low energy requirements such residential wiring or minor electric circuits.

Applications

Due to its higher capacity than MCB, MCCB is believed to be more suited for higher energy requirements. In contrast, MCB is typically used for low energy requirements, making them the best choice for those needs.

Conclusion

Circuit breakers are used in buildings to provide safety when using energy and electrical equipment. When they experience a short circuit or an overload, they make sure to stop the flow of current in order to avoid any fire threats or other electrical problems. To reduce the risk of error, both MCB and MCCB should be installed by professionals. In order to protect your loved ones, it's crucial to select the proper MCB or MCCB. There is a large selection of circuit breakers available, a name that is synonymous with high-quality electrical products and switchgear. These breakers can be used in both residential and commercial settings. The MCBs and MCCBs are utterly intelligent and trustworthy, offering long-lasting performance in protecting your home.