Top 5 Differences between MCB and RCCB

To determine the best MCB for your circuit, you will need to consider the rating range for your application. MCBs and RCCBs can protect against different kinds of hazards, such as overloads and short circuits. While MCCBs are designed to protect against short circuits, the rate at which they trip may differ from application to application. 

The main difference between the two types of breakers lies in the way they function. An MCB interrupts the circuit during overload, overcurrent, or short circuit, while an RCCB interrupts the circuit when it detects an earth fault. 

The MCB should be connected to the load side of the circuit before an RCCB. If you need to use both types of breakers at the same time, it is best to install an MCB first and then the RCCB once the system is in place.

If you want to know about the top 5 differences between MCB and RCCB, continue reading this article.

What is an MCB?

MCB stands for miniature circuit breaker. It is used to isolate current during overloads. MCBs have many different uses in your home. They’re commonly used as main breaker circuit breakers in house wiring circuits, but they also serve as switches for various electrical appliances. 

There are different types of MCBs. A C-type MCB trips when the current exceeds five to ten times the maximum rated load. These are common in industrial and commercial applications and protect against high-current loads like motors. 

A D-type MCB has a high resistance value and protects against heavy-duty loads. The picture below shows how a typical working real-time MCB looks. You can find these devices in electrical circuits throughout the home.

What Is RCCB?

An RCCB is a safety device that detects a change in residual current between the live and neutral wires. It breaks the circuit when the difference between the current in the live and neutral wires becomes large enough. 

RCCBs have various technical parameters. These parameters will determine whether your RCCB is working properly or not. The main technical parameters of an RCCB include its rated leakage action current, sensitivity, and duration. 

The basic function of an RCCB is to protect against electrical shock. Its voltage rating is 230 or 440 volts. The ECB’s main purpose is to protect you from electrical shocks and damage to electronic equipment. 

Top 5 Differences between MCB and RCCB

A few things you need to know before deciding which one to install. MCBs are easier to install, and you can often uninstall them much easier. They can also handle surge currents without tripping. In addition, they’re easier to replace if something goes wrong. Here are the differences between MCB and RCCB.

• Installation

MCBs are easier to install than their more expensive counterparts, RCCBs. They work by tripping when the current in a circuit exceeds its rated capacity. Type B and Type C MCBs are recommended for cable protection. MCBs are a good option if you don’t know how to wire an electrical circuit. Unlike fuses, they are much easier to install than RCCBs. 

• Protection

MCBs provide protection against short circuits and overcurrent. At the same time, RCCB offers protection against earth leakages and electric shock.

• Insensitive

MCBs are insensitive to electrical shocks, whereas RCCBs are insensitive toward overloads and short circuits.

• Versions

MCBs are available in single pole, 2 pole, 3 pole, and 4 pole versions. RCCBs are available in 2-pole and 4-pole versions only. 

• Rating

MCB has current ratings of 6A – 125A, whereas RCCBs have trip current sensitivity of 10mA, 30mA, 100mA and 300mA.