Difference between MCB and MCCB?

Difference between MCB and MCCB?

The main difference between MCB and MCCB is their capacity.

MCBs has up to 100Amp and MCCBs has up to 2500Amp.

MCBs has not operate remote on/off, While MCCBs has possible remote on/off by the use of shunt wire.

MCBs are mostly used in Low current circuit while MCCBs are used in high current circuit.

 

MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker):

1. Size and Rating:
   • MCBs are compact in size and typically have lower current ratings compared to MCCBs. They are commonly available in ratings up to 125A.
2. Tripping Characteristics:
   • MCBs generally have fixed tripping characteristics, which means they trip at a specific current threshold, such as 6A, 10A, 16A, etc. This makes them suitable for protecting smaller circuits and individual appliances.
3. Application:
   • Ideal for residential and light commercial applications where circuit protection is needed for individual circuits, such as lighting circuits, socket outlets, and small appliances.
4. Features:
   • Often equipped with features like overload protection and short-circuit protection.
   • Designed for quick and easy installation in distribution boards (DBs) or consumer units.
5. Operation:
   • MCBs are manually operated and can be reset after tripping once the fault is cleared.

MCCB (Molded Case Circuit Breaker):

1. Size and Rating:
   • MCCBs are larger and can handle higher current ratings compared to MCBs, typically ranging from 15A to 2500A.
2. Tripping Characteristics:
   • MCCBs offer adjustable tripping settings. They can be configured for different tripping curves (like B, C, D curves) to accommodate varying levels of inrush currents and overloads.
3. Application:
   • Suitable for industrial and commercial applications where larger currents need to be controlled and protected, such as distribution boards, motors, pumps, and larger machinery.
4. Features:
   • Provide comprehensive protection against overloads, short circuits, and ground faults.
   • Some MCCBs may include additional features like thermal magnetic trip units or electronic trip units for enhanced protection and monitoring.
5. Operation:
   • Like MCBs, MCCBs are manually operated but may also include remote operation capabilities for integration into more complex control systems.

Comparison Summary:

• Size and Current Ratings: MCBs are smaller and have lower ratings (up to 125A), while MCCBs are larger and can handle higher current ratings (up to 2500A).
• Tripping Characteristics: MCBs have fixed tripping settings, whereas MCCBs offer adjustable tripping settings and various tripping curves.
• Applications: MCBs are used in residential and light commercial settings for individual circuit protection, whereas MCCBs are used in industrial and commercial settings for larger equipment and systems.
• Features: MCCBs offer more advanced features and capabilities due to their larger size and higher current handling capacity.