Difference Between MCB and MCCB

Most of us have heard the words MCB and MCCB about electricity and power supply nowadays. Even though the average person will probably struggle to tell the difference. Both can be used as circuit breakers in an emergency, but they have important differences.

Let's first determine what the names MCB and MCCB mean in this circumstance. Then, we'll get a detailed look at what they signify. Next, this article will discuss the difference between MCB and MCCB. The Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) is a smaller Moulded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB) version. For the electric circuit designed specifically for the purpose, their differences matter.

About MCB

• It carries a fully molded insulating material and is an electromagnetic device.
• Switching the circuit is its key responsibility.
• When the current flowing through the circuit exceeds the predetermined limit, it implies it automatically opens the circuit to which it is connected.
• Miniature circuit breaker (MCB) may be manually turned ON or OFF as needed, exactly like regular switches.
• These are time-delay tripping devices, and the amount of overcurrent that passes through them determines how long they may operate.
• As a result, this device operates whenever an overload exists for an extended period.
• Transients like switch surges or motor starting currents never cause an MCB to respond.
• Miniature circuit breakers (MCB) typically work in less than 2.5 milliseconds for short circuit faults and between 2 and120 seconds during overloads.

About MCCB

An MCCB is an electric device that protects a circuit from overloading. Nonetheless, it may be used in locations where adjustable tripping is necessary, unlike the MCB. High current applications are where it is most beneficial. The manually operated switch for tripping the circuit is a characteristic of MCCB. There are two configurations for MCCB, one for overtemperature and the other for overcurrent.

It has a bimetallic contact that quickly expands with temperature fluctuation. This contact permits the circuit's electricity to flow when everything functions normally. But, if the current increases over the set limit, the contact will heat up and expand until it opens.

The equipment will be protected from damage because the circuit may become disconnected from the main supply.

MCB Overview

• Miniature circuit breakers (MCB) have thermal or thermomagnetic foundations.
• Short-circuit and overcurrent protection are both provided by miniature circuit breakers (MCB).
• Miniature circuit breakers (MCB) have a maximum short circuit capacity of 25kA and are available up to 100A.
• Miniature circuit breakers (MCB) are frequently used in lighting circuits.
• Miniature circuit breakers (MCB) are unable to modify their trip level.
• One, two, three, and four pole variations of miniature circuit breakers (MCB) exist.

MCCB Overview

• Molded case circuit breakers (MCCB) use thermal, thermo-magnetic, or electrical trip types.
• Molded case circuit breakers (MCCB) provide overcurrent and short-circuit protection.
• Molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) Protects against Earth Faults, Residual Currents, Under voltage, and other things.
• These come in ratings as high as 2500A.
• Their trip level is adjustable in MCCBs of the adjustable trip type.
• Molded case circuit breakers (MCCB) are frequently helpful for motor protection circuits and loads greater than 100A.
• Several MCCBs include a microcontroller basis as well.
• Molded case circuit breakers (MCCB) come in varieties with one, two, three, and four poles.

The Key Distinction Between MCB and MCCB

Things to Keep in Mind

• Circuit breakers like the MCB and MCCB are used to protect against risks and damage to appliances.
• The terms "Moulded Case Circuit Breakers" (MCCBs) and "Miniature Circuit Breakers" (MCBs) are used frequently.
• The capacity of an MCB and an MCCB differs from one another. MCCBs have values as high as 2,500 amps, whereas MCBs have less than 100 amps ratings.
• MCCB is used for large current circuits, whereas MCB is often used in low-circuit (domestic) circuits (Industries).
• Whereas the tripping circuit in the MCCB is adjustable, it is fixed in the MCB.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding MCB and MCCB

Question 1: What is the MCB and MCCB's maximum normal current rating?

Answer: A MCCB can handle 1600A of typical current, while an MCB has a maximum rating of 125A.

Question 2: What is the combined maximum short circuit capacity of the MCB and MCCB?

Answer: The maximum short circuit capacities of MCBs and MCCBs are 15 kA and 85 kA, respectively.

Question 3: What features of MCB and MCCB are similar?

Answer: The following are some similarities between MCB and MCCB:

• Both MCBs and MCCBs protect electrical circuits.
• Both detect a short circuit or an overcurrent scenario and protect the power circuit.
• They may both be utilized in circuits with low tension or low voltage.

Question 4: Circuit breakers: What are they?

Answer: Any property's electrical protective equipment is comprised of circuit breakers. Inside an insecure electrical wiring system, they take on the role of a third party. The MCB, MCCB, RCD, RCCD, and RCBO are only a few circuit breakers.

They defend against appliance damage and associated risks in residential and commercial environments. All of these circuit breakers are created to carry out particular tasks.

Question 5: What are the two configurations in an MCCB?

Answer: In MCCB, there are two configurations, one for overcurrent and the other for overtemperature. When MCCB's temperature fluctuates, a bimetallic contact on the device shrinks and expands.

While the circuit runs normally, the bimetallic contact allows current to pass. The contacts warm up and expand until they are open when the current surpasses the set value. As a result, the circuit disconnects from the main supply and secures the machinery.

Question 6: Why do people like MCB for household appliances?

Answer: To prevent fire or electrical hazards, MCB protects the electrical load and conductors from overcurrent. The MCB recovers the supply rapidly and is very safe to handle. Hence, MCB is preferred for overload and short-circuit protection in household applications. It also doesn't need regular maintenance.