Difference Between MCB & MCCB in a Circuit Breaker

While setting up an electric system at your house or office, you’re always so mindful. You try to choose the best brands and most durable electrical components so that your loved ones and invaluable assets remain safe in times of an emergency. Any electric hazard, such as earth leakage, short circuit, electrocution or fire, can create a huge loss of property and human life. 

 

One of the most important components is the electrical circuit breaker. These are control devices that help you be safe from such hazards. It is an electrical switch that is automatic and, once it detects a fault, interrupts the current.

 

MCB and MCCB are two types of the circuit breaker. One may get confused between the two, but it is important to know the difference between them when looking for utmost safety. They are used for different purposes and have different operating mechanisms. 

 

Read on to find out more about each. 

What is an MCB?

MCB stands for Miniature Circuit Breaker, an electromechanical device that acts as a switch and, on detecting any abnormal activity in the circuit, switches off automatically. Its main function is to sense the overcurrent that can cause a short circuit and switch it off immediately. 

 

Nowadays, people have started using an MCB over a fuse because it is automatic and can reset without any fuss or hassle. It is designed to protect your loved ones from any harm. It has two contacts, one is movable, and the other is fixed. When the current increases, the moving contact shifts and opens the circuit, which will disconnect it from the main supply. 

 

MCB is the preferred circuit breaker for household uses with automatic reset options and no maintenance cost. 

What is an MCCB?

MCCB stands for Molded Case Circuit Breaker, another type of protective device and helps in situations like overload. It is often used in commercial or factory spaces as it can take more load than an MCB. 

 

It is used more at places where adjustable tripping is required. You can find MCCB’s up to 2500 amps. It gives great safety when it comes to applying discrimination, adjustable overload setting or earth fault protection.

Difference Between an MCB & an MCCB

1. An MCB protects one from hazards such as a short circuit, whereas an MCCB protects the system from over-temperature and short circuit current such as an overload.
2. In an MCB, the tripping circuit is fixed, and in an MCCB, it is adjustable. Hence it is used in commercial spaces, unlike an MCB which is used in households. 
3. The interrupting current of the MCB is 1800amps, and for MCCB, it is 10k -200 k.
4. The rating current of MCB is 100 amps, whereas the rating current of MCCB is 10 – 200 amps.
5. The remote on / off is not possible in MCB, whereas it is possible in MCCB by using shunt wire.

 

That was the difference between an MCB and an MCCB. Now that you know its uses and application, you can buy the best quality and durable. If you’re looking for the best and expert-recommended electrical components like the MCB or MCCB, check out IndoAsian.