Understanding the concept of ELCB is crucial, especially as this device is closely related to electricity. As we know, electrical energy has become an essential part of modern life. However, behind its benefits, electricity also carries significant risks if not managed properly.

One of those risks is electrical leakage, which can endanger human safety and cause fires. To mitigate this risk, the ELCB (Earth-Leakage Circuit Breaker) serves as a solution. Let’s explore further what an ELCB is, its functions, types, and how it differs from an MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker).

Definition of ELCB

An ELCB, or Earth-Leakage Circuit Breaker, is a safety device designed to detect electrical leakage to the ground and automatically disconnect the power when leakage is detected. Electrical leakage occurs when there’s damage to cable insulation or electrical components, causing current to flow to unintended objects, including the human body.

Function of ELCB

The primary function of the ELCB is to protect humans from hazards caused by electrical leakage. Under normal conditions, the current flowing through the live wire (incoming current) should be balanced with the current flowing through the neutral wire (outgoing current). However, when there is leakage, such as when someone touches a damaged cable, the current becomes unbalanced. The ELCB detects this imbalance and quickly cuts off the power to prevent fatal incidents like electric shocks or fires.

Types of ELCB

According to Schneider Electric, ELCBs come in several types with different sensitivity levels, depending on the protection needed. Here are some types of ELCB based on their sensitivity levels:

1. ELCB with 10 mA sensitivity

Used in high-risk environments, such as hospitals, where protection against even the smallest current leakages is crucial.

2. ELCB with 30 mA sensitivity

Commonly used in homes and commercial buildings to protect people from direct contact with electricity.

3. ELCB with 300 mA sensitivity

Typically used to prevent fire hazards from larger current leakages, which are not directly related to human contact.

Differences Between ELCB and MCB

Although both ELCB and MCB function as protective devices in electrical systems, they differ in how they work and what they protect against.

1. Protection Function

MCBs are designed to protect electrical installations from overloads and short circuits. When excess current flows beyond the system’s capacity, the MCB will disconnect the power to prevent damage.

On the other hand, the ELCB focuses on detecting electrical leakage that could harm humans. It does not respond to overloads or short circuits but reacts to current that leaks out of the intended path.

2. How They Work

MCBs work by detecting the heat generated by excessive current or electrical surges. When the current exceeds the set limit, the MCB will trip and cut off the circuit.

ELCBs work by detecting the difference in current between the live and neutral wires. If the incoming current is not balanced with the outgoing current, the ELCB will immediately cut off the power.

ELCB Devices from Schneider Electric

ELCBs are essential devices for protection against electrical leakage, which can cause fires or fatal accidents due to electric shocks. Although they are often compared with MCBs, both devices serve different functions. MCBs protect against overloads and short circuits, while ELCBs ensure no harmful current leakage.

If you’re looking for high-quality ELCBs for your home or building’s electrical system, it’s best to choose products from reliable electrical brands like Schneider Electric. Schneider’s ELCB devices offer safe leakage protection and meet safety standards.

There are two types of Schneider ELCBs you can choose from based on your needs: the Domae ELCB series and the Acti9 ilD series. The Domae ELCB range is designed with two sensitivity levels, 30 mA and 300 mA, making them ideal for use in residential and apartment electrical systems.

Meanwhile, the Schneider Acti9 ilD series is made for more demanding and complex applications. This series has three sensitivity levels: 10 mA, 30 mA, and 300 mA. Therefore, the Acti9 ilD ELCBs are more suitable for industrial use and high-sensitivity needs, such as hospitals.

Understanding the concept of ELCB and its functions can help you make the right choice in protecting your home or building’s electrical system. Always use high-quality ELCB devices from trusted brands like Schneider Electric. You can find various ELCB products at Mitra Cipta Hardi Elektrindo and Hokione.

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