How A Circuit Breaker Works Diagram

How a Circuit Breaker Works

A circuit breaker is a safety device that interrupts the flow of electricity in a circuit when there is a fault. This can happen if there is too much current flowing through the circuit, or if there is a short circuit. Circuit breakers are designed to protect people and property from electrical hazards. ## How Does a Circuit Breaker Work? A circuit breaker works by using a bimetallic strip. This is a strip of metal that is made of two different metals that expand at different rates when they are heated. When the current in a circuit is too high, the bimetallic strip heats up and bends. This causes a switch to open, which interrupts the flow of electricity. Circuit breakers are rated for a specific amount of current. This is the maximum amount of current that the circuit breaker can safely handle. If the current in the circuit exceeds the rating of the circuit breaker, the circuit breaker will trip. ## Types of Circuit Breakers There are two main types of circuit breakers: *

Magnetic circuit breakers

use a magnetic field to trip the switch. These circuit breakers are typically used for high-current applications. *

Thermal circuit breakers

use a bimetallic strip to trip the switch. These circuit breakers are typically used for low-current applications. ## Circuit Breaker Installation Circuit breakers are installed in the main electrical panel of a building. They are connected to the incoming power lines and to the circuits that they are protecting. Circuit breakers are typically installed by a qualified electrician. ## Circuit Breaker Maintenance Circuit breakers should be inspected and tested regularly to ensure that they are working properly. Circuit breakers can be tested by turning off the power to the circuit and then pressing the test button on the circuit breaker. If the circuit breaker trips, then it is working properly. Circuit breakers should be replaced if they are damaged or if they have tripped more than a few times. ## Conclusion Circuit breakers are an important safety device that can protect people and property from electrical hazards. By understanding how circuit breakers work, you can help to keep yourself and your family safe. ## Additional Resources * [National Electrical Code](https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/nfpa-70-national-electrical-code) * [Underwriters Laboratories](https://www.ul.com/products/electrical/circuit-breakers) * [Electrical Safety Foundation International](https://www.esfi.org/)

How Do Circuit Breakers Work Winco