C2 Duty Cycle Test for Circuit Breakers as per IEC 62271

The C2 Duty Cycle Test confirms a circuit breaker capable of capacitive switching operations. Even a few tens or hundreds of amperes of capacitive current may cause unexpectedly high transient recovery voltage. That is not a healthy condition for the insulation of the system. A circuit breaker interrupts capacitive current when it cuts unloaded transmission … Read more

Construction and Working of MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker)

A miniature circuit breaker, or MCB, is an essential protective device in low-voltage electrical systems because it protects the circuit from both overload and short-circuit faults. Let us explore the constructional details and the working of an MCB. Introduction to MCB An MCB has two main functions. We can use it as a toggle switch … Read more

Selective DC Scheme in Breaker Control Circuit

The Selective DC Scheme in circuit breaker control circuits is a specialized design used to enhance reliability and ensure fail-proof operation in power system protection and control. In a Selective DC Scheme, multiple (normally two) DC supplies are taken to ensure that control circuit of CB remains functional even if one of the supplies fails. … Read more

Spring – Spring Mechanism of Circuit Breaker – Explained

Spring-spring mechanism is the most commonly used circuit breaker operating mechanism today. It offers many advantages. Manufacturers use this as the simplest and most economical mechanism in circuit breakers. It also provides high reliability. This mechanism is much more compact than hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms. Previously, engineers widely used spring-spring mechanisms for 11 kV indoor … Read more

Anti-Pumping Scheme in Circuit Breakers – A Complete Guide

In electrical power systems, circuit breakers play a crucial role in protecting equipment and ensuring the stability of the grid. However, improper operation of breakers can lead to major faults and unsafe conditions. One critical issue in breaker operation is multiple closing attempts before clearing a fault. This can occur due to a continuous closing … Read more

Minimum Oil Circuit Breaker | MOCB – Explained

Before entering the minimum oil circuit breaker (MOCB), let us recall our knowledge about the older version of the oil circuit breaker and which is the bulk oil circuit breaker. In a bulk oil circuit breaker,(BOCB) we use oil as the insulating medium.  Also, we use oil as the arc-quenching medium. So, to serve both … Read more

Duty Cycle of a Circuit Breaker

A Circuit breaker is an essential component in electrical power system. It is designed to interrupt fault currents and hence protect equipment from damage. A crucial aspect of their performance is the duty cycle. The duty cycle defines the operational requirements and limitations of the breaker in terms of repeated opening and closing operations. Whenever … Read more

Bulk Oil Circuit Breaker – History, Working & Drawbacks

In the early days, less 1910 or the early 20th century, most utilities used a bulk oil circuit breaker (BOCB) for high-voltage switching during that time. Earlier air circuit breakers served the purpose of switching high voltage and very high voltage current. But after the 19th century, engineers realized that mineral oil, or specially treated … Read more