This discussion is locked.
You cannot post a reply to this discussion. If you have a question start a new discussion

Short circuit fault current calculations

Hi,


When using an adjustable circuit breaker e.g. current rating adjustable between 15 and 36Amps. What value do you use for rated current in the prospective short circuit fault current calculation, I.e. do you use the maximum current setting (36A) or the actual current setting used in operation, (e.g. 20A).

In the example given above this can make a large difference to the maximum length of cabling that can be used and still ensure instantaneous tripping of the CB.

Also if the actual current setting is used in the calculation, where does responsibility lie if someone adjusts the setting to the maximum, which could mean that the prospective short circuit fault current is no longer enough to guarantee instantaneous tripping, which could in turn lead to a fire risk? Is that foreseeable misuse?


any help or suggestions appreciated.


thanks.


Parents
  • Lyle,

    Completely agree here. The Im setting is unlikely to be adjustable as it doesn't rely on a trip signal from the electronics, but is rather a magnetically induced trip induced by the current flowing (hence Im - m for magnetic). Most importantly the short circuit rating of the circuit breaker is definitely not changed when the current settings are adjusted.

    However some circuit breakers have a short time setting (probably 250-400 ms) which is not the same as the instantaneous trip, but is a fixed (short) time trip instigated by the electronics. This trip, being set by the electronics, is adjustable. However I have not seen such a trip setting on MCCBs before but rather on ACBs.

    Alasdair
Reply
  • Lyle,

    Completely agree here. The Im setting is unlikely to be adjustable as it doesn't rely on a trip signal from the electronics, but is rather a magnetically induced trip induced by the current flowing (hence Im - m for magnetic). Most importantly the short circuit rating of the circuit breaker is definitely not changed when the current settings are adjusted.

    However some circuit breakers have a short time setting (probably 250-400 ms) which is not the same as the instantaneous trip, but is a fixed (short) time trip instigated by the electronics. This trip, being set by the electronics, is adjustable. However I have not seen such a trip setting on MCCBs before but rather on ACBs.

    Alasdair
Children
No Data