How Do Circuit Breaker Protection Devices Work? Let’s Find Out!
It is incredible how the electronic industry evolved in connecting the world, especially with today’s pandemic crisis. There is an undeniable fact as to how important it is in sustaining the business activities of other sectors.
In return, the industry also benefits from them as they greatly contribute to its successes and milestones by challenging businesses on top of the unpredictable demands of respective markets. Whether for entertainment, business, academic or professional applications, an electronic device would most likely be needed.
However, despite the inspirational ideas from the industry’s great minds, the need for improvements will always be present. Loopholes are usually taken negatively, but these are keys to opening more opportunities and constantly surfacing new inventions.
Recent Trends & Challenges of the Electronics Industry
The incorporation of technological changes is meant for market scope expansion through the creation of product varieties that are adapted to the modern world. Electronic businesses today, like Sensata Technologies, are forced to change their strategies to remain competitive and relevant in the market.
Although, with all this never-ending growth & development, there are still traditional practices that cannot be completely replaced. Just like an electric source that provides a particular device’s full potential.
Some inventions have been introduced to prolong the battery life of portable devices such as cell phones, laptops, and cameras, just like the very famous battery pack or power bank. In addition, a device that stores energy for on-the-go usage is no different from the rest as it still needs electrical outlets to restore its power and serve its purpose.
As part of the online world’s emergence, power banks were developed to reduce users’ frustration when their devices run out of battery. This is just one of the many hindrances to a device’s failure to function, so electrical outlets are still considered the main option.
It is then creating a high demand when available for users. Imagine one of your long-stay cafe visits to study or what some consider remote work today.
The dilemma continues as these electrical outlets vary among regions and some countries. Different plugs and voltage capacities are being formed, just like the ones presented in the image below.
Unfortunately, these variations are not merely designs; their deceiving aesthetic carries a potential danger for you and your equipment when improperly used. Adapters are an option to address incompatible circuits and plugs, which is common when traveling.
According to the International Electrotechnical Commission Standard IEC 61140:2016, this applies to electronics with extra-low voltage ranging from 0 – 1000 AC RMS voltage or a DC voltage of 0 – 1500.
What is Circuit Breaker Protection?
The previous discussion may have pushed you back from using your devices. The good thing is that industry experts and professionals have already foreseen the potential danger of different electronic applications.
Inventions are created in response, such as the Circuit Breaker Protection Devices, also known as CPD, short for Circuit Protection Device, and just “Breaker” per household terms. A CPD is an electronic component protecting a circuit from overvoltage, overcurrent, or overload.
Many use these terms interchangeably, but they are different situations in reality. Each is further explained below:
- Overcurrent – An excessive current starts to flow in the circuit due to a short circuit, overloading the circuit, or a ground fault.
- Overload – An electrical load takes more current than the standard rated capacity.
- Overvoltage – A condition where operating or supply voltage is higher than the standard rated capacity specified by the system’s manufacturer. Lightning strikes are classified for this excessive charge of voltage.
The Different Circuit Breaker & Protection Devices
Testing electronic components at home can sometimes be dangerous, especially when unaware of basic precautions. Typically, it is best to leave these to experts, but a good amount of necessary knowledge will not hurt!
All devices in the market are expected to go through strict quality control and safety standards before being marketed. We have now explained and provided you with a better understanding of the difference between overcurrent, overload, and overvoltage.
So let us dig deeper and know the different protection devices, such as the circuit breaker for each event.
| Overcurrent Protection | Overload Protection | Overvoltage Protection |
|
Overcurrent Relays Circuit Breakers Temperature Sensors Solid-State Power Switches |
Slow Blow Circuit Breaker Overload Relays Thermal Magnetic Circuit Breakers |
Voltage-Dependent Resistors (VDR) Avalanche Diodes Lightning Rods Arcing Horns Gas Discharge Valves |
Where Are Circuit Protection Breaker Devices Found?
There are many options when choosing manufacturers and suppliers of circuit breaker protection devices from the ever-growing & evolving electronic industry. However, the evolution can be overwhelming as the market demand tend to be high and changes quickly, making it difficult to find components, especially those already classified as obsolete.
BD Electronics is more than willing to offer its services to assist you in finding the parts you need. We do not produce circuit breaker protection devices, but we have a vast network of electronic manufacturers to source your electronic needs, regardless of the quantity, immediately.
Are you looking for more electronic protection devices such as circuit breakers or pieces for testing electronic components? Send us a message and we will get back to you ASAP.
