Miniature circuit breakers are electromagnetic devices that serve as a complete enclosure with the use of an insulating material. Their main purpose is to switch a circuit. When pressed or pulled, the circuit opens allowing current to pass through. However, when the current flow exceeds the value set, the circuit will stop the flow. This can be used manually too if necessary.
If you are familiar with circuit breakers, then you have an idea how exactly circuit breakers work and what purpose they serve. Miniature circuit breakers are pretty much the same thing, only smaller in appearance.
Choosing the right type
The first type is type B. This is the type that will trip instantly at a fast rate. They are perfect for resistive loads and switching surges are quite small or in some cases negligible. Commercial installations would require this type of miniature circuit breaker.
Another option is the type C. This trips instantly, 5 to 10 times quicker than the current rate. They are used for high inductive loads. Small motors and other commercial uses would require this type of circuit breaker.
Type D is the most heavy-duty type. They can act about 10 to 20 times as fast as the rated current. They are perfect for really high loads. The inrush of the current into the system may also be really quick. Therefore, this type would work best for industrial operations and commercial applications. Devices like X-ray machines and welding equipment would benefit from this type of miniature circuit breaker.
Choose the type based on what you think would be perfect for the purpose for which they will be used.
Safety is the priority
You can’t control the flow of current to your devices at home. You could suffer from serious issues if there is no barrier to the flow of current. Therefore, it helps a lot if you have the miniature circuit breakers to prevent potential hazards.
Since they are used for safety reasons, you have to make sure that you choose one of high quality. Even if you spend more for circuit breakers, it is perfectly fine. You will be using them for a long time anyway. Besides, you don’t want to spend a lot on repair issues just because the circuit breakers are of poor quality.
Check the warranty
There are circuit breakers that come with a warranty. Find out how long the warranty is so you can change them when they are no longer functioning well. Even the ones you order online also come with a warranty. You just need to know the process to replace or repair the circuit breaker for free just in case you encounter problems along the way.
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