How does a circuit breaker work?
A circuit breaker, circuit breaker, commonly known as a LS switch or fuse, is a type of overcurrent protection device in electrical equipment used in low-voltage networks. The circuit breakers protect all cables and wires from damage caused by heating them up because too much or high current flows through them. Circuit breakers protect against overload and short circuit. Thermal trips in fuses are used for overload protection, while magnetic trips are used to protect against short circuits. In overload protection, tripping is delayed, while in short-circuit protection it is not. For this reason, the use of miniature circuit breakers is also required by DIN VDE 0100 for all devices. Thanks to the new technology installed in the miniature circuit breakers, the miniature circuit breakers can be switched on again after the problem has been solved and do not necessarily have to be replaced.
When do circuit breakers trip?
If the current exceeds the rated value of the protective device for a longer period of time, the thermobimetal starts and stops. Current flows through the coil of the circuit breaker. If the magnetic field rises sharply due to a short circuit, the circuit breaker closes automatically. In households, fuses are installed to break the circuit as soon as the current exceeds a set rating (usually 13A/16A in households) or a short circuit occurs. The main purpose of this safety measure is to prevent overheating of current-carrying cables and wires, and thus cable fires. The fuses are usually located in the fuse box, which also houses the residual current device (RCD). Depending on the size of the area and the number of consumers, entire rooms, floors or appliances requiring special attention are protected. Washing machines, tumble dryers and a the stove, must therefore be protected individually.
Tips and safety instructions
If the circuit breaker cannot be reactivated, there could be another cause for the trip. If all connected equipment is on, this means a lot of inrush current and the machine will shut down. It helps to turn off or disconnect some or all of the equipment in the area. Then you can try to trip the circuit breaker again. If it fails again, there may still be a faulty device in the circuit. If you cannot find the fault yourself, we strongly recommend that you call in an expert! Keep in mind that every security system has its purpose, including home security. If the circuit breaker trips, it should be taken seriously. The source of the fault must be found and eliminated. Fuses protect wiring and household appliances from short circuits and overloads. Therefore, a bypass can have far-reaching effects, and the possibility of fire cannot be ruled out. For your own protection, you must always remember that fuses should only be replaced or exchanged by a qualified electrician, even if these devices are available at the hardware store. The fuse box itself has no protection against electric shock. So be sure to keep your hands off the fuse box, because 400V are present there.