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  • The Difference Between ELCBs and RCCBs

    11th Apr 2024

    Electrical safety devices like ELCBs and RCCBs constantly monitor circuits and rapidly disconnect power when faults occur. But while serving similar purposes, these two technologies work quite differently. Understanding key differences in detection methods, fault types addressed, and breaker capabilities clarifies optimal applications. ELCBs solely detect earth faults, and RCCBs find all leakage RCCBs cover more fault types but can nuisance trip ELCBs suit high-current circuits, RCCBs for full protection ELCBs and RCCBs both provide vital shock prevention. But RCCBs now supersede older electromechanical ELCB designs in most new builds due to wider fault coverage. Here’s how these two residual current devices compare. What is an ELCB? The original earth leakage circuit breaker (ELCB) detects current flow imbalances between hot and neutral supply conductors. This identifies earth faults when higher current returns on neutral back to the panel. Their electromechanical coils trigger fast mechanical relay trips in the milliamp range when imbalance thresholds are crossed. However, ELCBs have no “residual” fault detection beyond simple hot/neutral measurements. More advanced RCCBs now outpace ELCBs in performance and precision. What is an RCCB? As the name implies, residual current circuit breakers (RCCBs) detect leakage current diverting from hot to ground rather than neutral returns. This provides fuller coverage and faster response down to 30 milliamps of ground fault, whereas ELCBs often only trip at 100 milliamps or more. RCCBs use compact electronic detection coils rather than mechanical coils and relays for precision fault identification. When any stray leakage current is sensed, the breaker trips in under 40 milliseconds. […]

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  • RCBO vs RCCB: Key Differences Explained

    10th Apr 2024

    Upgrading electrical safety means choosing between RCCBs for pure shock prevention and RCBOs with added overcurrent stops. While their names sound alike, these technologies provide overlapping yet distinct protection. How do RCCBs and RCBOs differ in form and function? RCCBs solely detect leakage faults, and RCBOs have overcurrent RCBOs combine RCCB and MCB circuits in one body RCCBs maximize safety, RCBOs add circuit breaker capabilities RCCBs identify leakage currents for fast shutoff against shocks. RCBOs build in standard circuit protection, too. Selecting the right device starts with understanding their capabilities. What are RCCBs and How Do They Work? The term RCCB stands for residual current circuit breaker. RCCBs work by constantly sampling electrical current in the hot and neutral lines to detect any deviations or “residual” leaking to the ground. This identifies ground faults that indicate potential shock risks. Once a RCCB senses stray current exceeding 30 milliamps, its control circuit trips the breaker in under 40 milliseconds – much faster than a human body can withstand a shock. This makes dedicated RCCBs ideal for power points and wet areas needing maximum safety. What are RCBOs and How Do They Function? By contrast, a residual current circuit breaker with overcurrent protection (RCBO) combines ground fault detection like an RCCB while also integrating standard circuit breaker overcurrent capabilities in a single body. The RCCB portion samples current flow to catch leakage faults. Circuit breaker components additionally monitor the line current level and will trip at a preset amperage threshold in case of overloads and short circuits. […]

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  • Do All Houses Have The Main Breaker?

    21st Feb 2024

    If you’re not familiar with the main breaker, it is a device that controls the flow of electricity through a house. Usually, the breaker is located in the middle of a circuit panel. The breaker controls the flow of 120 volts of electricity. The main breaker interrupts this flow before the branch breakers can work. Most houses have one of these devices, but not all. You can find your main circuit breaker on the outside of your home or in the main electrical panel. There are only a few houses that don’t have a main breaker, but they’re a common sight. Most houses have at least one 100-amp breaker, though some might have two or more. You can check with your building maintenance staff to be sure.  A subpanel gets its power from the main panel. Its amp rating must match the main panel circuit’s. The number of subpanels is limited to the number of main breaker panel circuits. If you need to add more power to your house, you should call your local utility company and/or an electrician.  If you want to know whether all houses have a main breaker, continue reading this article.  What Is the Main Breaker? A circuit breaker is a device that automatically trips when a circuit becomes overloaded, which can lead to fires or even electrocution. Circuit breakers are designed to detect and stop overloaded circuits. They can also be triggered by power surges.  Before you tackle electrical repairs, you should know what the main breaker is. This device […]

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  • Do I Need A Fuse Between MPPT And Battery?

    19th Feb 2024

    Depending on the model of your MPPT, you may need a fuse between the charge controller and the battery. The fuse size you choose will depend on the amps flowing to and from the charge controller.  The size of the fuse is typically listed on the charge controller’s manual. For instance, if your MPPT draws 60 amps, you will want to connect the battery bank to a 60-amp fuse. You should also make sure the wires are long enough to connect to both components. When using the MPPT charge controller, you must also use a PWM fuse. This fuse connects each panel to the charge controller. It should be located on the plus (+) side. You must make sure the fuse is placed between the MPPT charge controller and battery.  This fuse is important because it protects the charge controller from overcurrent and prevents the battery from reaching critical discharge. The fuse is also a safety measure to prevent damage to the battery, solar panel, and any electrical load. If you want to know whether a fuse is required between MPPT and battery, continue reading this article.  What Is An MPPT Battery Fuse? An MPPT battery fuse is an important piece of equipment when installing solar panels in your home. It can help protect your battery bank and inverter from excessive currents. A fuse can protect your system from a variety of situations and is essential to ensure that your solar panels are safe and functional.  Most charge controllers have a fuse built in. If […]

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  • When Would You Use An Automatic Transfer Switch?

    19th Feb 2024

    Automatic transfer switches are important for a few reasons. First, they make power outages easier. Then, when there’s a problem with your electricity, you don’t have to worry about manually switching over to an alternate power source.  When you have a backup power supply, you can simply set the automatic transfer switch to automatically start the generator if the power goes out. If you don’t need a backup power supply, this switch can save your business. Another reason to install an ATS is to protect against overcurrents. This device is designed to monitor two sources of power and transfer your load to either source. It will switch from one source to the other when it senses that the other power source is no longer safe for your equipment.  If you want to know when to use an automatic transfer switch, continue reading this article.  What is an Automatic Transfer Switch? This is a piece of equipment that automatically transfers electrical energy from one generator to another. While it may sound complicated, automatic transfer switches are fairly easy to use and install.  They feature clearly labelled ports and are relatively inexpensive. Before you buy an automatic switch, though, make sure that it is suitable for your needs. If you’re not sure about its functionality, you can always consult an electrical engineer. The switch allows you to avoid a potential power outage. The transfer mechanism will automatically switch power from one source to another, providing a way to continue power in the event that one source fails.  […]

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  • The Different Types of MCCB and How It Works

    17th Feb 2024

    There are different types of circuit breakers, and you need to know how they work in order to install them correctly. These circuit breakers are grouped into different types: type B, type C, type D, type K, and type Z. A type B MCCB will trip when it sees a surge of 3 to 5 times the rated current, while a type C will trip when it sees a surge 5 to 10 times. An MCCB is an excellent electrical protection device. Its casing is sealed and cannot be opened. But just like any other electrical equipment, it requires periodic maintenance in order to function properly.  MCCBs can handle a large current and a short circuit. They also have a movable trip unit and a short tripping time. Some types have remote ON/OFF features, making them useful in industrial settings where electrical shocks are a common hazard. Different types of MCCBs are used in different electrical settings. If you want to know about the different types of MCCBs and how it works, continue reading this article.  How does MCCB Works? If you’ve ever wondered How MCCB Works, you’ve come to the right place. There are several important parts to know. The first one is the relay tripping unit, or brain, of the MCCB. This component contains an electromagnetic coil and a tripping plunger, which is used to trip the breaker on a predetermined time delay when a fault condition is detected. When an overload occurs, the MCCB trips. The second part of the MCCB system […]

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  • Can You Manually Operate An Automatic Transfer Switch?

    15th Feb 2024

    The manual transfer switch is a simpler version of an automatic transfer switch. It is not as complex but requires someone to be present on-site to operate it. This kind of switch is more affordable, but it requires manual operation.  Moreover, the switch does not switch from utility power to generator power automatically. If you have a generator, you need to manually start the generator, connect the generator to the transfer switch, and then turn off the generator. Manually operating an automatic transfer switch may be necessary in order to diagnose malfunctions in its mechanisms. It can test the emergency contact and resistance by manually shifting from Normal to Emergency.  The manual switch should move smoothly and not bind when the source switch is removed for storage. If it is not, it needs deeper inspection and replacement parts. Checking its performance is a vital step in the maintenance process.  If you want to know whether you can manually operate an automatic transfer switch, continue reading this article. Can You Manually Operate an Automatic Transfer Switch? If you’re looking for a better way to control the amount of electricity flowing into your home, you should consider installing an Automatic Transfer Switch. These devices transfer the electrical load from one power source to another in a matter of seconds, meaning that you don’t need to manually operate the device. Automatic Transfer Switches are built with the latest technologies, including automatic detection of power outages, which a manual transfer switch cannot do. The best thing is that you […]

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  • Are Microwave Sensors Better Than PIR?

    21st Jan 2024

    The difference between PIR and microwave sensors is that the former is more accurate. While a PIR sensor may report movement when the temperature rises or a person walks by, a microwave sensor will report movement more precisely.  You can set the threshold at which motion detection is triggered by the sensor and whether it is triggered by a human, animal or temperature change. A microwave sensor can also detect animals and windy conditions. The main difference between PIR and microwave sensors lies in their range. Microwave sensors work in the same way, but they are far more sensitive. They detect movement in rooms and spaces that are not symmetrical or even rectangular.  They are also better suited for large spaces and rooms with objects in them. And because they don’t rely on heat signatures, microwave sensors are more sensitive than PIRs. For home security, microwave sensors are better than PIR for some applications. Aside from the price difference, there are some other major differences between the two types of motion sensors. Microwave sensors are more sensitive than PIR sensors and have a better coverage range.  If you want to know whether microwave sensors are better than PIR, continue reading this article.  The Difference between Microwave Sensors and PIR Sensors One of the main differences between PIR and microwave sensors is how they detect heat. PIR sensors measure the temperature of the room and activate lamps when the temperature changes. They turn off the lights when the temperature returns to normal. A major benefit of […]

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  • Mechanical Timer Not Working? Here’s a Few Reasons Why & How to Fix It

    12th Jan 2024

    Mechanical timers, while reliable, can encounter issues affecting their operation.  In this article, we’ll explore common reasons why a mechanical timer may stop working and provide step-by-step solutions to address these concerns. Possible Causes for a Malfunctioning Mechanical Timer Mechanical timers may stop working at times due to the following possible causes: Incorrect Timer Settings When the timer is set for a longer duration than intended, it may not operate correctly. Timer Wiring Problems Issues with both internal and external wiring connections can lead to operational failures. Broken or Stuck Parts Dirt, dust, corrosion, or broken components can hinder the proper functioning of the timer. Gears and Spring Complications Damaged, stripped, or partially jammed gears, along with issues with the spring and clock wheel engagement, can disrupt the timer’s functionality. Other Concerns Incorrect placement of the clock dial, loose middle time pointers, and problems with the power supply or batteries can also contribute to the timer’s failure. How to Fix a Mechanical Timer That Is Not Working To address a non-functioning mechanical timer, follow these general steps: Step 1: Check Timer Settings: Ensure correct timer settings to prevent it from running longer than intended. Step 2: Inspect Timer Wiring: Verify proper wiring and power flow, as loose terminals may disrupt electricity. Step 3: Examine for Broken or Stuck Parts: Check gears and springs for malfunctions caused by age, dirt, or debris. Lubricate stuck gears and consider replacing broken parts. Step 4: Check Power Supply: Confirm adequate power supply and check for blown fuses, as low […]

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  • Mechanical Timer vs Digital Timer

    11th Jan 2024

    Ever wondered about the differences between those old-school timers with knobs and the sleek digital ones?  Mechanical timers, like the old knobs, use moving parts, while digital timers work with buttons and electronics.  Mechanical ones are big and basic, and digital ones are small and fancy. Mechanical timers need more care due to their moving bits, while digital ones need little to no care at all.  Depending on what you need, whether basic or a bit fancy, we’ll figure out which timer suits you best. Let’s break it down in simple terms.  What is the Difference Between a Mechanical Timer and a Digital Timer? Mechanical timers and digital timers serve the purpose of controlling when electrical devices turn on and off, but they have distinct differences.  Here’s a breakdown of their main variations: Functionality Mechanical timers, also called analog timers, use moving parts to measure time and control devices, while digital timers employ electronic technology for the same purpose. Size and Design Mechanical timers are larger and bulkier, often made of steel boxes that might not complement home décor.  In contrast, digital timers are smaller and visually appealing, making them a better fit for home aesthetics. Ease of Use Mechanical timers are simple with on/off buttons, whereas digital timers offer advanced features like setting specific dates and times, providing more flexibility. Maintenance Mechanical timers require more frequent maintenance due to moving parts, while digital timers need little upkeep and can run for extended periods without servicing. Price Mechanical timers are usually more budget-friendly than digital […]

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