The distinctions between MCB and MCCB are misconstrued. Even though they are both electronic circuit breakers, there are significant distinctions between them that make them tailor-made for certain purposes.
However, before we go into the specifics of each, it’s necessary to know just what these abbreviations represent.
Because “MCB” refers to “Miniature Circuit Breakers” and “MCCB” means “Molded Case Circuit Breakers,” the functions of these two electrical devices are quite different.
This article examines the distinctions between the two devices as well as the applications for which they are utilized.
Key Takeaways
- MCB stands for Miniature Circuit Breaker, an electrical switch that automatically turns off the electrical circuit in case of an overload or short circuit.
- MCCB stands for Molded Case Circuit Breaker, a larger and more powerful circuit breaker for industrial or commercial applications.
- While MCBs are used in homes and smaller electrical systems, MCCBs are used in larger electrical systems that require higher current ratings.
MCB vs MCCB
Miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) are used to shut off smaller electrical circuits during an overcharge or short circuit. It has a lower capacity for breaking circuits up to 18000 amperage. A molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) is used in industrial applications for breaking larger circuits. It has an amperage range of up to 200000 amps.
MCB is the abbreviation for Miniature Circuit Breaker. During any hazardous circumstance in the power circuit, such as an overcharge or short circuit, the MCB immediately shuts off the electrically wired circuit, and thus it is called a ‘breaker’.
The fuse may detect these situations, but it must be repaired, even if the MCB can be restored.
It is an operational device that protects electrical cables and loads from excessive current to prevent fires and other electrical dangers.
Handling MCB is safer because it recovers power rapidly. When it comes to the overflow of electric current through the wiring and short-circuit shielding in residential applications, MCBs are the most commonly picked devices to get the job done.
MCBs may be reset quickly and do not require any upkeep.
MCCB, aka ‘Molded Case Circuit Breakers’, works on the same principle as the MCB but is used for greater capacitive purposes.
It protects against stresses and overflow of electricity and short circuits that occur in the circuit mechanisms. Even in household applications, it may be utilized for greater current ratings and fault levels.
MCCBs are used in industrial sectors because of their wide power capacity and high breaking/resistance capacity. MCCBs can be used to safeguard capacitor banks, generators, and the administration of main electric feeders.
It has an adjustable overflow setting or earth fault protection, and it provides appropriate protection.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | MCB | MCCB |
|---|---|---|
| Abbreviation | Miniature Circuit Breaker | Molded Case Circuit Breakers |
| Interrupting Range | It has an interrupting current rating of less than 10 kA. | Their interrupting current is between 10 to 85 kA. |
| Utility | MCBs are mostly suited for low-breaking-capacity residential applications, based on their power capabilities. | MCCB is primarily utilised in the manufacturing industry for both low and high breakage capacity requirements. |
| Rated Current | Maximum rated current is 125 Ampere. | Up to 1600A rated current |
| Remote Connectivity | N/A | Options for remote controlled interaction are available in some models. |
What is MCB?
A Miniature Circuit Breaker or MCB is an operational electronic device that protects electrical circuits from overheating or creating fire hazards. An electrical problem produced by an overcharge or a short circuit is referred to as a short circuit.
We used to guard against over-current and overflow situations in circuits by using fuse wire back at the time when this problem was unsolvable.
The concept was simple: an over-current could actually “break” the fuse wire by rapidly warming and melting it, destroying the electrical contact and protecting the remainder of the circuit.
When a malfunction arises, the ‘mini’ circuit breaker is an electronic component that immediately switches off the circuit. It detects the leakage current generated by the short circuit with ease.
MCBs are mostly suited for low-breaking-capacity residential applications based on their power capabilities, unlike the MCCBs, which are heavily used in the industrial sectors.
The tiny circuit’s operation is relatively straightforward. The primary aim of these devices is to safeguard equipment against overcurrent.
It has two interfaces, one of which is moveable and the other of which is not.
When the power exceeds a certain threshold, the moveable contacts are separated from the permanent contacts, causing the circuitry to open and disconnect them from the main supply.
What is MCCB?
MCCB is an acronym for ‘Molded Case Circuit Breaker’. When the total voltage surpasses the limit of a miniature circuit breaker, it is implemented as another form of electrical device.
The MCCB protects against overflows and faults current failures, as well as changing the circuits. Even in household applications, it may be utilized for greater current ratings and fault levels.
MCCBs are used in industrial applications because of their wide average current ratings and high breakdown capacity.
The MCCB has two sets when it comes to its operating principles: one is for overheating and the other for exceeding voltage. It has a bimetal copper-nickel contact that grows and shrinks when the temperature change is beyond normal.
The contact permits the current to pass through the circuitry under typical working circumstances. If the current exceeds the preset limit, however, the connections will become heated and stretch until they rupture.
As a consequence, the circuit is isolated from the power system, preventing harm to the equipment and the infrastructure.
For the higher versions, an MCCB has a changeable trip feature. Depending on the situation, this sort of circuit breaker might produce amps as high as 2,500 or as low as 10.
They have interruption ratings ranging from 10,000 to 200,000 amps. The MCCB is better suited to powering high-power devices.
Main Differences Between MCB and MCCB
- An MCB costs much less than an MCCB because of its application and larger resistance point.
- MCB stands for Miniature Circuit Breaker, whereas MCCB stands for Molded Case Circuit Breakers.
- MCBs are implemented in homes and small circuits, whereas MCCBs are used in commercial or industrial facilities.
- An MCB can break up to 18,000 amps, whereas an MCCB can disrupt up to 200,000 amps.
- MCBs do not have remote access to the instrument, whereas MCCB units feature synchronous motor operators, which can be triggered via remote control.
Last Updated : 26 August, 2023
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Emma Smith holds an MA degree in English from Irvine Valley College. She has been a Journalist since 2002, writing articles on the English language, Sports, and Law. Read more about me on her bio page.
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