Two types of circuit breakers that are frequently used in electrical installations for safety reasons are residual current circuit breakers (RCCB) and earth leakage circuit breakers (ELCB). They both provide protection against electric shock and flames, but they operate differently and have unique characteristics. We will examine the main distinctions between RCCBs and ELCBs in this blog post.

1 Definition

A type of circuit breaker called an RCCB is intended to identify and stop current leakage to earth. It measures the current differential between the live and neutral conductors and trips the circuit when the difference rises above a certain level. Also known as Residual Current Devices, RCCBs (RCDs).

A different kind of circuit breaker called an ELCB, on the other hand, uses the voltage differential between the earthed and neutral wires to detect and stop current leakage to earth. When the voltage between these two wires is compared and reaches a predetermined threshold, the circuit is tripped.

2 Sensitivity

The sensitivity of RCCBs and ELCBs to current leakage is one of their main differences. Compared to ELCBs, RCCBs are more sensitive and can identify current leakage as low as 10 milliamps (mA). They are therefore perfect for usage in settings like homes, hospitals, and other public locations where ensuring human safety is paramount.

In contrast, ELCBs are less sensitive than RCCBs and can only detect current leakage when it is greater than 30 mA. Because of this, they are less appropriate for usage in settings where high sensitivity is required, but they are still helpful for offering minimal protection against electric shock and fires.

3 Installation

The installation requirements for RCCBs and ELCBs are another significant distinction. RCCBs can be put in any region of the electrical installation and are especially helpful in locations with many circuits because they can safeguard each circuit separately.

However, ELCBs are normally put at the distribution board, which is the starting point of the electrical installation. They cannot protect circuits that are upstream of the ELCB, only circuits that are downstream of it.

4 Trip Period

The amount of time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip after a problem is found is referred to as the tripping time. Due to their quicker detection of current leakage than ELCBs, RCCBs often trip more immediately. This implies that they can offer more potent fire and electric shock protection.

ELCBs, on the other hand, have a slower tripping time, therefore they might not be able to offer sufficient protection in circumstances where rapid tripping is necessary.

RCCBs and ELCBs are both crucial safety equipment used to guard against electric shock and fires, to sum up. Even though they share some characteristics, their sensitivity, installation, and tripping times are very different. It’s crucial to select the suitable type of circuit breaker depending on the installation’s unique needs, and to speak with a qualified and licensed electrician for assistance with installation and maintenance.