Tag Archives: Types Of RCBO

What Is An RCBO?

RCBO plays a vital role in the realm of electrical safety and circuit protection. RCBO is also referred to as a Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent Protection. It serves a crucial role in safeguarding both individuals and properties from electrical hazards. It also acts as a cornerstone of modern electrical installations.

In this blog, we will explore the intricacies of the RCBO, its mechanisms, applications, and significance in the contemporary electrical sector.

Main Purpose Of RCBO

A prolonged and perhaps dangerous shock can be prevented by quickly cutting off the electricity with the help of a residual current device. It is also known as a residual current circuit breaker (RCCB). An RCBO, or residual current circuit breaker with overcurrent protection, is an RCD device that has overcurrent protection.

RCBOs are primarily used to protect against short circuits, overload, and earth fault currents. Each distinct circuit should have an RCBO connected to it, ensuring that the operation of the others is unaffected by a malfunction in one.

These devices provide the disconnection of the circuit to safeguard individuals and apparatus in the event of an imbalanced current. When operating within the rated short-circuit capacity, they can only be used in conjunction with other overcurrent protective devices.

How Does RCBO Work?

As was already explained, the purpose of the residual current circuit breaker is to quickly cut off the energy supply in order to prevent any severe or prolonged electric shocks. If someone touches both conductors at the same time or trips over after receiving the first shock, there is still a chance they could get hurt.

When an imbalanced electric current is detected between the circuit supply and return wires, the breakers allow a circuit to be quickly and automatically disconnected. Every time a leakage current is indicated by a difference in the conductors’ currents, there is a risk of shock.

In order to enable the automated disconnection of the electric supply (ADS) and eliminate the need for human involvement, the RCD device is a crucial part of the system. These kinds of devices have to start up in 25–40 milliseconds once leakage currents over 30 mA are detected. It’s crucial to remember, though, that this only applies to final circuits with fewer than 32 amps.

Types Of RCBO

RCBO is a combination of an MCB and an RCCB. It is classified into three main types.

  • Type B: In situations where there is less power surge, MCBs are utilized in residential and light commercial settings.
  • Type C: These are typically utilized for high inductive loads with high switching surges, including fluorescent lighting and tiny motors. They have the ability to trip at five to 10 times their rated present.
  • Type D: X-ray machines, compressors, winding motor factories, and other large industrial facilities employ these, which trip ten to twenty-five times in a split second.

There are also models with one, two, three, or four poles.

Summing Up

In a nutshell, RCDs and RCBOs are essential parts of electrical safety systems. These provide vital protection against electric shocks and fires due to short circuits. Both property owners and landlords as well as tenants must be aware of their functionality. You should also be aware of their testing protocols, and regulatory obligations. Hence, it’s our duty to give priority to electrical safety precautions for a safe living environment.