Common Circuit Breaker Terminology – SolveForce Fiber Internet, Cloud Computing & Telecommunications

Adjustable Trip Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that has an adjustable trip setting, which determines the amount of current at which the breaker will trip (interrupt the flow of electrical current).
Adjustable Trip: A type of trip unit that allows the user to adjust the trip settings, such as current setting, time delay, and trip curve, to meet the specific requirements of the electrical system.
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB): A type of circuit breaker that uses air as the arc-quenching medium, typically in high-voltage and high-current applications.
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB): A type of circuit breaker that uses air as the insulating medium between the contacts.
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB): A type of circuit breaker that uses air as the insulating medium, and that provides high-interrupting capacity, high-speed operation, and high-mechanical endurance, for medium-voltage and high-voltage applications.
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB): A type of circuit breaker that uses air as the insulation and arc-quenching medium, and that employs various types of interrupting mechanisms, such as puffer, air-blast, or oil-immersed.
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB): A type of circuit breaker that uses air as the primary insulation and interruption medium.
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB): A type of circuit breaker that uses compressed air to extinguish an arc in the event of an over-current.
Air circuit breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses air as the insulating medium between the contacts.
Air Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses compressed air as the insulating medium to interrupt the flow of electrical current.
Air Circuit Breaker: A type of high-voltage circuit breaker that uses air to interrupt the flow of electrical current.
Alarm Trip: A breaker accessory that provides an alarm signal, such as a buzzer or light, when the breaker trips, to alert the operator of a fault or disturbance in the system.
Amperage: A measure of the flow of electrical current in a circuit, expressed in amperes (A).
Ampere Interrupting Capacity (AIC): The highest current a circuit breaker can safely interrupt at a specified voltage.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A device designed to detect and interrupt arc faults in electrical wiring.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt arc faults, which are dangerous electrical discharges that occur when electrical current jumps through air instead of flowing through a conductor.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt arc faults, which are dangerous electrical malfunctions that can cause fires.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt dangerous arc faults, and to prevent electrical fires and hazards, in residential and commercial applications.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt dangerous arcing conditions that can lead to electrical fires.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt dangerous arcs in electrical wiring, which can cause fires.
Arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt dangerous arcs in electrical wiring.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is specifically designed to detect and interrupt hazardous arcing conditions in electrical circuits.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that provides protection against arc faults, which are dangerous electrical arcs that can cause fires.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): A type of circuit breaker that provides protection against electrical fires by detecting and tripping in the presence of arc faults.
Arc fault: A discharge of electrical energy through the air, caused by a breakdown of the insulation between two conductors.
Arc Flash Label: A label that is placed on electrical equipment, and that provides information about the arc flash hazards, and the recommended personal protective equipment, and that promotes safety and awareness for workers and operators.
Arc Flash Protection: A type of protection that is used to minimize the risks and consequences of an arc flash, which is a dangerous release of energy, caused by a fault in an electrical system, and that provides increased safety and awareness for workers and operators.
Arc: A flow of electrical current that jumps through the air, creating a spark.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): A device that automatically switches a power supply from one source to another in the event of a power failure or voltage disturbance.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): A device that automatically switches between two sources of electrical power, such as utility power and backup generator power, in the event of a power failure.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): A device that is used to automatically switch the power supply from one source to another, in case of failure or interruption of the primary source, and that provides power continuity, reliability, and safety, for critical systems and applications.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): A switch that automatically transfers power from one source to another, such as from utility power to a backup generator.
Auxiliary Switch: A breaker accessory that provides a set of contacts that can be used for external control, indication, or signaling, of the breaker’s status or operation.
Bonding: The process of electrically connecting metal parts of electrical equipment together to ensure electrical continuity and equal potential.
Breaker accessories: Additional components or accessories that can be added to a circuit breaker, such as shunt trips, auxiliary contacts, and remote trip signals, to enhance its performance or functionality.
Breaker Accessories: Additional components or devices that can be added to a circuit breaker to enhance its functionality or performance, such as remote control devices, protection relays, or communication modules.
Breaker Accessories: Additional components or devices that can be added to a circuit breaker to enhance its functionality or performance, such as trip units, auxiliary switches, or remote control devices.
Breaker Accessory: An auxiliary device or component that is used with a circuit breaker, to provide additional functionality, such as indication, control, testing, or protection.
Breaker application: The specific electrical system and equipment that a circuit breaker is intended to protect.
Breaker arc flash analysis: A study, based on mathematical and engineering models, that calculates the arc flash energy, hazard risk category, and protective measures, for a specific electrical system, and provides recommendations for arc flash protection.
Breaker arc flash boundary: A boundary, marked around an electrical panel or switchgear, that separates the hazardous arc flash energy from the safe working area, and indicates the required protective measures and personal protective equipment.
Breaker arc flash label: A warning label, attached to an electrical panel or switchgear, that indicates the arc flash energy level, hazard risk category, and required personal protective equipment, for a specific electrical system.
Breaker arc flash mitigation: The measures and practices, such as reducing fault current levels, improving system design, and providing arc flash protection equipment and training, that are used to minimize the risk and impact of an arc flash in an electrical system.
Breaker arc flash protection: A protection scheme, based on the use of protective clothing, barriers, and warning labels, that minimizes the risk of injury from an arc flash, a potentially hazardous electrical explosion, caused by a fault in an electrical system.
Breaker arc flash protection: The protection provided by a circuit breaker or other electrical safety equipment, against the hazardous energy released by an electric arc, during a fault condition, which can cause injury, death, or property damage.
Breaker auxiliary contact: An additional contact or set of contacts that are electrically actuated by the breaker mechanism, used for remote signaling or auxiliary control.
Breaker auxiliary switch: An additional switch or set of switches that are mechanically actuated by the breaker mechanism, used for remote signaling or auxiliary control.
Breaker Auxiliary Switch: An additional switch that is built into a circuit breaker and can be used to control or monitor external circuits or devices.
Breaker capacity: The maximum current carrying capacity of a circuit breaker, based on its rating, design, and construction, used to determine its suitability for different applications.
Breaker capacity: The number of circuits that a circuit breaker panel is capable of accommodating.
Breaker Closing Spring: A spring mechanism within a circuit breaker that provides the energy needed to close the breaker after it has tripped.
Breaker closing: The act of a circuit breaker completing the circuit and allowing current flow after it has been opened by tripping.
Breaker compatibility: The ability of a circuit breaker to work correctly with a specific electrical system and breaker panel.
Breaker construction: The physical and electrical components of a circuit breaker, including the casing, contacts, trip mechanism, and other components.
Breaker Control Circuit: The electrical circuit used to control the operation of a circuit breaker, including the initiation of tripping and the closing of the breaker.
Breaker coordination: The arrangement of circuit breakers within an electrical system to ensure that the proper breaker will trip in the event of an overcurrent or short circuit.
Breaker duty cycle: The amount of time that a circuit breaker is expected to carry current, as a proportion of its total operating time, used to determine its suitability for different applications.
Breaker Duty Rating: The maximum amount of current that a circuit breaker is designed to handle on a continuous basis.
Breaker Enclosure: The protective casing that surrounds a circuit breaker, and that provides insulation, environmental protection, and mechanical protection, for the breaker and its components.
Breaker failure: The inability of a circuit breaker to perform its intended function, due to a malfunction, defect, or other cause, requiring repair or replacement.
Breaker fault current level: The maximum current level that can flow in an electrical system, in the event of a fault, such as a short-circuit or a ground fault, and that must be taken into account when designing and protecting the electrical system.
Breaker Fault Current Rating: The maximum fault current that a circuit breaker can withstand without damage.
Breaker fault current: The abnormal flow of current in an electrical system, caused by a fault such as a short circuit or an overcurrent.
Breaker fault interruption: The interruption of the flow of current in an electrical system by a circuit breaker in response to a fault or abnormal condition, such as a ground fault or an overcurrent.
Breaker fault level: The level of current in an electrical system that constitutes a fault or abnormal condition, requiring interruption by a circuit breaker.
Breaker fault protection: The protection provided by a circuit breaker against faults or abnormal conditions in an electrical system, including ground fault protection, arc fault protection, and overcurrent protection.
Breaker fault sensitivity: The sensitivity of a circuit breaker to fault currents, determining its ability to detect and interrupt faults in an electrical system.
Breaker fault: A problem or defect within the internal mechanism of a circuit breaker that can cause it to fail to trip or to trip prematurely.
Breaker Frame Size: The physical size of a circuit breaker, which determines the maximum amount of current it can handle.
Breaker frame size: The size or dimensions of a circuit breaker, including the width, height, and depth, used to determine its physical compatibility with a breaker panel or other electrical equipment.
Breaker frame: The metal frame that holds and supports the internal components of a circuit breaker.
Breaker Frame: The physical housing that contains and protects the internal components of a circuit breaker.
Breaker function: The specific type of protection provided by a circuit breaker, such as overcurrent protection, ground fault protection, or arc fault protection.
Breaker ground fault protection: The protection provided by a circuit breaker or RCD, against ground faults, which can pose a safety hazard, cause equipment damage, or result in power outages.
Breaker handle lock: A mechanism or device that can be added to a circuit breaker to prevent unauthorized operation, such as a padlock or other locking device.
Breaker handle: The external handle or lever that is used to manually turn the breaker on and off.
Breaker installation: The process of installing a circuit breaker in an electrical system, including connecting the breaker to the electrical supply, installing the breaker in the breaker panel, and wiring the breaker to the electrical equipment it is intended to protect.
Breaker intelligent electronic device (IED): A microprocessor-based device used in conjunction with a circuit breaker, to provide advanced protection, control, and monitoring capabilities, including digital fault detection, alarm reporting, and trend analysis.
Breaker Interrupting Capacity: The maximum amount of current that a circuit breaker is capable of interrupting without damage.
Breaker Interrupting Rating (AIR): The maximum fault current that a circuit breaker is capable of safely interrupting without sustaining damage.
Breaker life cycle: The total operating life of a circuit breaker, including its manufacture, installation, use, maintenance, and eventual replacement.
Breaker life expectancy: The estimated length of time that a circuit breaker can be expected to last before it needs to be replaced.
Breaker Line-Side Terminals: The electrical connections on the line side of a circuit breaker, where the breaker connects to the power source.
Breaker Load-Side Terminals: The electrical connections on the load side of a circuit breaker, where the breaker connects to the circuit it is protecting.
Breaker Locking Mechanism: A mechanism that prevents unauthorized or accidental manipulation of the breaker, such as adjusting its trip settings.
Breaker lockout: A mechanism that prevents the breaker handle from being moved, used for safety or maintenance purposes.
Breaker lockout: The act of preventing unauthorized operation of a circuit breaker, using a lockout tagout procedure, breaker handle lock, or other method.
Breaker maintenance management system (MMS): A computer-based system used to manage and schedule breaker maintenance activities, including breaker testing, cleaning, and replacement, as well as tracking breaker life cycle and breaker history.
Breaker maintenance: The ongoing care and upkeep of a circuit breaker, including periodic cleaning, testing, and replacement of worn or damaged components, as needed.
Breaker Maintenance: The periodic inspection and testing of a circuit breaker to ensure that it is functioning properly and ready to respond to overcurrent or short circuit conditions.
Breaker maintenance: The regular inspection and cleaning of circuit breakers to ensure proper operation and safety, including checking for loose connections, damaged components, and wear and tear.
Breaker maintenance: The regular inspection, testing, and replacement of circuit breakers to ensure proper operation and safety.
Breaker management system (BMS): A computer-based system used to manage, monitor, and control circuit breakers, including breaker status, breaker health, breaker performance, and breaker maintenance.
Breaker microprocessor control: The use of a microprocessor or electronic control system to control and monitor the operation of a circuit breaker, allowing for advanced protection and control features.
Breaker minimum approach distance (MAD): The minimum distance, specified by electrical safety codes and standards, that must be maintained between the arc flash boundary and the worker, to minimize the risk of injury from an arc flash.
Breaker Monitoring: The continuous monitoring of a circuit breaker to detect any changes in its performance or status, such as trip times, current levels, and breaker contacts.
Breaker monitoring: The use of sensors, meters, and other monitoring devices to monitor the performance and status of a circuit breaker, including its current level, trip time, and fault conditions.
Breaker mounting style: The manner in which a circuit breaker is mounted or installed, including plug-on, bolt-on, and snap-on styles.
Breaker Operating Mechanism: The mechanical components of a circuit breaker that control its opening and closing, such as springs, trip units, and trip elements.
Breaker operation and maintenance manual: A document that provides instructions and information on the operation, maintenance, and testing of circuit breakers, protection relays, and other electrical safety equipment, including breaker ratings, standards, and codes.
Breaker operation: The normal functioning of a circuit breaker, including sensing current levels, tripping in response to faults, and resetting after a fault.
Breaker panel: A metal cabinet that houses circuit breakers and provides access to electrical circuits for maintenance or repair.
Breaker Panel: A type of electrical panel that contains circuit breakers for over-current protection.
Breaker performance: The ability of a circuit breaker to perform its intended function, including interrupting the flow of current, tripping in response to faults, and resetting after a fault.
Breaker protection coordination study: A study conducted to determine the appropriate settings and arrangements of circuit breakers, protection relays, and other electrical safety equipment, in an electrical system, to ensure adequate protection and minimize the risk of cascading failures.
Breaker protection coordination: The arrangement of circuit breakers in an electrical system, in order to provide adequate protection against fault conditions, and to minimize the risk of cascading failures.
Breaker protection device: A component of an electrical system that provides protection against overcurrents, short circuits, and other faults, including circuit breakers, fuses, and ground fault interrupters.
Breaker protection function: The specific protection function, such as overcurrent protection, short-circuit protection, or ground fault protection, that a circuit breaker is designed to provide.
Breaker protection level: The level of protection provided by a circuit breaker against overcurrents, short circuits, and other faults, based on its rating, trip setting, and protection scheme.
Breaker protection relay calibration: The process of adjusting the performance of a protection relay, using test equipment and test procedures, to ensure accurate and reliable operation.
Breaker protection relay function: The specific protection function, such as overcurrent protection, short-circuit protection, or ground fault protection, that a protection relay is designed to provide.
Breaker protection relay setting: The adjustable parameters, such as trip current, trip time, and pickup level, used to set the performance and protection characteristics of a protection relay.
Breaker protection relay testing: The testing of protection relays, using test equipment, test procedures, and test buttons, to verify their performance and operation.
Breaker protection relay: An electrically operated device used in conjunction with a circuit breaker, to detect and respond to fault conditions, such as overcurrents, short circuits, and ground faults.
Breaker protection scheme: The overall arrangement of circuit breakers, protection relays, and other electrical safety equipment, in an electrical system, to provide adequate protection against fault conditions.
Breaker protection scheme: The overall design of an electrical system and its associated circuit breakers, including the selection and arrangement of breakers, to ensure adequate protection and coordination.
Breaker protection scheme: The specific design and arrangement of circuit breakers and other protection devices within an electrical system, including the selection and coordination of breakers to ensure proper protection.
Breaker protection setting: The adjustable parameters, such as trip current, trip time, and trip curve, used to set the performance and protection characteristics of a circuit breaker.
Breaker protection system: The overall design and arrangement of circuit breakers and other protection devices within an electrical system, including the selection and coordination of breakers to ensure proper protection.
Breaker protection system: The overall system of circuit breakers, protection relays, and other electrical safety equipment, used to provide protection against fault conditions in an electrical system.
Breaker protection: The protection provided by a circuit breaker against overcurrents, short circuits, ground faults, and other fault conditions, through the use of trip mechanisms, protection relays, and other devices.
Breaker protection: The use of circuit breakers to protect electrical equipment and prevent damage from overcurrents, short circuits, and other faults.
Breaker protective clothing: The special clothing, such as arc-rated clothing, gloves, and face shields, that must be worn by workers who are working in proximity to an electrical panel or switchgear, to minimize the risk of injury from an arc flash.
Breaker rating label: The label or tag attached to a circuit breaker that indicates its rating and other important information, such as its type and function.
Breaker rating: The current or voltage rating of a circuit breaker, indicating the maximum level of current or voltage that it can safely carry without tripping.
Breaker rating: The maximum amount of current that a circuit breaker is designed to handle, typically expressed in amps.
Breaker Rating: The maximum amount of current that a circuit breaker is designed to handle.
Breaker rating: The maximum level of current that a circuit breaker is rated to safely handle.
Breaker ratings and standards: The various ratings, standards, and codes that are used to specify the performance, design, and construction requirements of circuit breakers, including international, national, and industry standards.
Breaker Reclosing: The process of resetting a tripped circuit breaker and restoring power to the circuit it protects.
Breaker Release: The component of a circuit breaker that provides the energy needed to trip the breaker in the event of an overcurrent or short circuit.
Breaker reliability: The ability of a circuit breaker to perform its intended function without fail, including proper operation, tripping in response to faults, and resetting after a fault.
Breaker remote tripping: The ability to remotely trip a circuit breaker, using a remote control or communication system, for the purpose of controlling power distribution, fault isolation, or load shedding.
Breaker replacement: The act of removing a failed or worn circuit breaker, and replacing it with a new or refurbished circuit breaker, in order to restore protection and operation.
Breaker replacement: The process of removing an existing circuit breaker and installing a new one, typically due to age, failure, or a change in electrical requirements.
Breaker reset: The process of turning a circuit breaker back on after it has tripped due to a fault.
Breaker residual current device (RCD): A device that is used to detect and interrupt current flowing in a circuit, in the event of a ground fault, by comparing the current in the phase conductor with that in the neutral conductor.
Breaker safety: The ability of a circuit breaker to provide protection for electrical equipment, people, and property, including proper operation, tripping in response to faults, and preventing dangerous arcs and fires.
Breaker selection: The process of choosing the correct circuit breaker for a specific electrical application, based on factors such as breaker rating, breaker type, and breaker compatibility.
Breaker selective coordination: The arrangement of circuit breakers in an electrical system, in such a way that only the circuit breaker closest to the fault trips, while other upstream circuit breakers remain closed, minimizing the number of circuits affected by the fault.
Breaker Sensitivity: The ability of a circuit breaker to detect and respond to changes in current flow, such as an overload or short circuit.
Breaker Service Life: The length of time that a circuit breaker is expected to operate without requiring replacement or repair.
Breaker service: The regular maintenance and repair of circuit breakers to ensure proper operation and safety.
Breaker short-circuit current rating (SCCR): The maximum short-circuit current that a circuit breaker or other electrical device can safely interrupt, without damage or failure, and that must be specified in the device datasheet or rating plate.
Breaker shunt trip: An accessory that can be added to a circuit breaker to allow remote tripping, using an external electrical signal.
Breaker size: The physical dimensions of a circuit breaker, determined by the type of breaker panel in which it will be installed.
Breaker sizing: The process of determining the appropriate size of a circuit breaker based on the electrical load it is intended to protect.
Breaker specification: The detailed information and specifications for a specific type or model of circuit breaker, including its rating, type, function, and other important characteristics.
Breaker standard: A set of guidelines and specifications for the design and construction of circuit breakers, established by organizations such as the National Electric Code (NEC) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
Breaker Status Indicator: A device or mechanism on a circuit breaker that displays the current state of the breaker, such as whether it is open or closed.
Breaker status indicator: A device, such as a light or switch, that indicates the current status of the breaker (on or off).
Breaker status indicator: A visual or electronic display that indicates the status of a circuit breaker, such as whether it is closed or tripped.
Breaker technology: The advancements and innovations in the design and construction of circuit breakers, including the use of new materials, improved trip units, and more advanced protection schemes.
Breaker Test Button: A button or switch on a circuit breaker that is used to initiate a breaker trip test.
Breaker test function: The ability of a circuit breaker to be tested for proper operation, using a test button, test switch, or other testing device.
Breaker test procedure: A set of steps and procedures used to test the operation and performance of a circuit breaker, using test equipment, test buttons, and other testing devices.
Breaker Testing: The process of evaluating the performance and functionality of a circuit breaker to ensure it is operating correctly.
Breaker testing: The process of evaluating the performance of a circuit breaker to ensure that it is operating correctly and within specifications.
Breaker testing: The process of verifying the operation and performance of a circuit breaker, through the use of test equipment, test procedures, and other methods.
Breaker thermal imaging: The use of thermal imaging cameras, to detect and diagnose electrical issues, such as hot spots, loose connections, and overloading, in an electrical system, before they cause a fault or an arc flash.
Breaker Trip Class: A classification system used to describe the speed at which a circuit breaker trips in response to an overcurrent or short circuit event.
Breaker Trip Coil: An electromagnet within a circuit breaker that is activated when the breaker trips, causing the breaker to physically interrupt the flow of current.
Breaker trip current: The current level at which a circuit breaker trips and interrupts current flow, as determined by its protection settings.
Breaker trip current: The value of current at which a circuit breaker is designed to trip, based on its trip setting and protection scheme.
Breaker trip curve: A graph that shows the relationship between the current and the trip time for a specific circuit breaker, used to evaluate its performance and trip settings.
Breaker Trip Curve: A graphical representation of the relationship between current and time for a particular circuit breaker, used to determine its trip settings and behavior.
Breaker trip curve: The graphical representation of a circuit breaker’s trip current versus time, used to determine its performance characteristics.
Breaker Trip Delay: The amount of time between when a breaker is triggered to trip and when it actually trips and interrupts the flow of current.
Breaker Trip Element: The component of a circuit breaker that physically opens and closes the breaker contacts to interrupt the flow of current.
Breaker trip function: The mechanism by which a circuit breaker trips and interrupts the flow of current in response to an overcurrent, short circuit, or other fault condition.
Breaker trip setting: The adjustable value or setting of a circuit breaker that determines the current level at which it will trip, based on its protection scheme and protection level.
Breaker trip setting: The specific value of current at which a circuit breaker is designed to trip, based on the breaker rating and the type of protection provided.
Breaker Trip Settings: The adjustable parameters of a circuit breaker that determine the conditions under which it will trip, such as current levels, time delays, and trip curves.
Breaker Trip Settings: The adjustable settings on a circuit breaker that determine the level of current at which the breaker will trip.
Breaker Trip Test: A procedure used to test the operation of a circuit breaker by intentionally causing it to trip.
Breaker Trip Test: A test performed on a circuit breaker to confirm that it will trip and interrupt the flow of current at the correct level.
Breaker Trip Testing: The process of testing a circuit breaker to verify that it is functioning properly and tripping at the correct levels and times.
Breaker trip threshold: The value of current at which a circuit breaker is designed to trip, based on its rating and protection scheme.
Breaker trip time curve: A graph that shows the relationship between the current level and the trip time for a specific circuit breaker, used to evaluate its performance and trip settings.
Breaker Trip Time: The amount of time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip and interrupt the flow of current after being triggered by an overload or short circuit.
Breaker trip time: The amount of time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip and interrupt the flow of current in response to an overcurrent, short circuit, or other fault condition.
Breaker trip time: The amount of time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip in response to a fault, typically measured in milliseconds.
Breaker Trip Time: The amount of time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip in response to an overcurrent or short circuit.
Breaker trip time: The time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip and interrupt current flow in response to an overcurrent, short circuit, or other fault condition.
Breaker Trip Unit: The component of a circuit breaker that monitors the flow of current and initiates a breaker trip if an overcurrent or short circuit condition is detected.
Breaker trip unit: The internal component of a circuit breaker that initiates the trip function, including the thermal-magnetic trip unit and the electronic trip unit.
Breaker tripping characteristic: The manner in which a circuit breaker trips in response to an overcurrent, short circuit, or other fault condition, including instant trip, short delay trip, and long delay trip.
Breaker tripping mechanism: The internal components of a circuit breaker that sense current levels and initiate the trip function, including the trip unit and trip coil.
Breaker tripping: The act of a circuit breaker interrupting current flow in response to an overcurrent, short circuit, or other fault condition.
Breaker tripping: The process of a circuit breaker interrupting the flow of current due to an overcurrent, short circuit, or other fault.
Breaker type: The classification of a circuit breaker based on its function, design, or protection scheme, including circuit breakers for overcurrent protection, ground fault protection, and arc fault protection.
Breaker types: The different types of circuit breakers available, including molded case circuit breakers, miniature circuit breakers, low voltage power circuit breakers, high voltage circuit breakers, and others.
Breaker types: The various types of circuit breakers available, such as standard breakers, GFCIs, arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs), and dual function circuit breakers (DFCs).
Breaker undervoltage release: An accessory that can be added to a circuit breaker to allow manual closing after a power failure or undervoltage condition, without the need to manually reset the breaker.
Breaker usage: The specific electrical applications for which a circuit breaker is used, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or utility applications.
Breaker verification: The process of testing and confirming that a circuit breaker is operating correctly and meeting its specifications.
Breaker Voltage Rating: The maximum operating voltage that a circuit breaker is designed to handle without sustaining damage.
Breaker wiring: The electrical connections between a circuit breaker and the electrical equipment it is intended to protect, including the hot and neutral wires, the ground wire, and the breaker panel.
Bullet Point List All Circuit Breaker Terminology and Related Definitions.
Busbar: A metal conductor used to distribute power to multiple circuit breakers in a load center.
Circuit breaker accessories: The additional components or devices that can be added to a circuit breaker, such as shunt trips, undervoltage releases, and auxiliary switches, to enhance its functionality and performance.
Circuit breaker contacts: The metal components that make and break the electrical connection in a circuit breaker, allowing current flow or interrupting current flow, based on the breaker trip signal.
Circuit breaker control: The process of controlling the operation of a circuit breaker, either manually, through the use of a breaker handle or switch, or automatically, through a remote control or communication system.
Circuit Breaker Coordination: The process of selecting and arranging circuit breakers in an electrical system to provide adequate protection and minimize the number of unnecessary interruptions.
Circuit Breaker Coordination: The process of selecting and installing circuit breakers in a manner that ensures the proper coordination of overcurrent protection devices in an electrical system.
Circuit Breaker Enclosure: A metal or plastic box that houses and protects a circuit breaker.
Circuit Breaker Enclosure: A protective housing for circuit breakers, typically made of metal or plastic, that provides protection against electrical shock, impact, and moisture.
Circuit Breaker Enclosure: A protective metal casing that houses circuit breakers.
Circuit breaker enclosure: The metal or plastic casing or cabinet that houses and protects a circuit breaker, providing mechanical protection and insulation, as well as environmental protection against moisture, dust, and temperature.
Circuit breaker frame: The metal frame that supports and secures the components of a circuit breaker, including the trip unit, the contacts, and the operating mechanism.
Circuit Breaker Life Cycle: The period of time over which a circuit breaker is used and subjected to electrical and mechanical stresses, including trips and closing operations.
Circuit Breaker Life Expectancy: The average length of time that a circuit breaker is expected to operate before it fails or needs to be replaced.
Circuit Breaker Life Expectancy: The estimated length of time that a circuit breaker will perform as intended before requiring replacement.
Circuit Breaker Maintenance: The process of inspecting, testing, and servicing circuit breakers to ensure they are functioning properly and safely.
Circuit Breaker Maintenance: The regular upkeep and inspection of circuit breakers to ensure they are functioning properly and to extend their lifespan.
Circuit breaker mechanism: The mechanical or electrical device that opens and closes the contacts of a circuit breaker, allowing current flow or interrupting current flow, based on the breaker trip signal.
Circuit Breaker Operating Time: The length of time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip in response to an overcurrent or fault condition.
Circuit breaker operation: The process of opening and closing the contacts of a circuit breaker, either manually, through the use of a breaker handle or switch, or automatically, through the breaker trip mechanism.
Circuit Breaker Panel: A type of load center that uses circuit breakers to distribute power to individual circuits.
Circuit Breaker Rating: The amount of electrical current that a circuit breaker is designed to carry without tripping or failing.
Circuit Breaker Rating: The maximum current that a circuit breaker is designed to carry and protect against overcurrent conditions.
Circuit Breaker Rating: The maximum current that a circuit breaker is designed to carry continuously under normal operating conditions.
Circuit Breaker Rating: The parameters that define the electrical characteristics of a circuit breaker, such as the voltage rating, the current rating, the short-circuit interrupting capacity, the frame size, and the duty cycle.
Circuit Breaker Terminology Definitions
Circuit Breaker Testing: The process of evaluating the performance and functionality of circuit breakers, typically through routine testing or after an interruption event.
Circuit breaker testing: The testing of circuit breakers, using test equipment, test procedures, and test buttons, to verify their performance and operation, and to detect any faults or issues.
Circuit Breaker Tolerance: The amount by which a circuit breaker’s trip point can vary without affecting its performance.
Circuit Breaker Trip Curve: A graphical representation of the relationship between the current flowing in an electrical circuit and the time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip in response to that current.
Circuit Breaker Trip Curve: A graphical representation of the relationship between the current flowing through a circuit breaker and the time it takes for the breaker to trip.
Circuit Breaker Trip Unit: The component within a circuit breaker that is responsible for tripping the breaker and breaking the electrical connection in the event of an overcurrent or fault condition.
Circuit breaker trip unit: The device or component that detects and triggers a breaker trip, based on the breaker protection function and the breaker protection setting.
Circuit Breaker Trip Unit: The part of a breaker that is responsible for tripping the breaker in response to an overcurrent condition.
Circuit Breaker Trip Unit: The part of a circuit breaker that is responsible for detecting and interrupting the flow of electrical current.
Circuit Breaker Trip Unit: The part of a circuit breaker that senses overcurrent conditions and initiates the breaker’s tripping mechanism.
Circuit breaker trip: The process of interrupting current flow in a circuit, through the operation of the circuit breaker mechanism, based on a trip signal, such as an overcurrent, a short-circuit, or a ground fault.
Circuit Breaker Tripping Time: The amount of time it takes for a circuit breaker to detect and interrupt the flow of electrical current.
Circuit breaker: An electrical switch that automatically breaks an electrical circuit to prevent damage caused by overload or short circuit.
Circuit: An individual electrical pathway, with a single source of power, that carries electrical current to different parts of a building.
Close Time: The amount of time it takes for a circuit breaker to close after being tripped.
Combination Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (CAFCI): A type of circuit breaker that provides both overcurrent and arc fault protection in one device.
Common Trip Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is connected in series, and that operates together, such that if one breaker trips, all the breakers trip, and that provides selective coordination, redundancy, and increased safety, for multi-circuit applications.
Common Trip Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed to trip (interrupt the flow of electrical current) when any of the individual breakers within a panel are tripped.
Communications Trip Unit: A type of trip unit that includes communication capabilities, such as serial, Ethernet, or wireless, to enable remote monitoring, control, and data transfer for a circuit breaker.
Coordination: The process of selecting and arranging protective devices so that their operation is synchronized, minimizing the possibility of cascading failures or overloading other devices.
Current Limiting Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed to limit the amount of current that flows during a fault, reducing the risk of damage to equipment and improving system reliability.
Current Limiting Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed to limit the current during a fault, to a value that is much lower than the peak fault current, and that provides fast and reliable protection, as well as minimum damage to the system and the breaker itself.
Current Rating: The maximum current that a breaker is designed to carry under normal operating conditions, typically expressed in amperes (A).
Current Rating: The maximum current that a circuit breaker is rated to handle.
Definite Time Characteristic: A type of trip curve that is used in thermal and magnetic trip units, and that shows that the breaker will trip after a fixed time, regardless of the current value, and that provides protection against less severe faults, with a lower priority.
Dielectric Test: A procedure that is used to test the insulation and integrity of a breaker, by applying a high-voltage test signal to the breaker, and observing its performance and withstand capability.
Differential Protection: A type of protection provided by circuit breakers that detects and interrupts the flow of electrical current in the event of a fault within the protected system.
Differential Protection: A type of protection that is provided by a circuit breaker, and that is designed to detect and interrupt differential current, which occurs when the current flowing into a protected zone is not equal to the current flowing out of the protected zone, indicating a fault within the zone.
Discrimination: The ability of a protective device to distinguish between normal and abnormal conditions and to respond accordingly.
Distribution Panel: A panel that distributes electrical power to various circuits within a building or facility.
Double Pole Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that provides protection to two electrical circuits and takes up two spaces in a load center or panel.
Double-Pole Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that provides over-current protection for two circuits that are electrically connected.
Dual function circuit breaker (DFC): A type of circuit breaker that combines the functions of a GFCI and an AFCI, providing both ground fault protection and arc fault protection in one device.
Dual Function Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that provides both overload and short circuit protection for a circuit.
Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt earth leakage, which occurs when electrical current leaks to the ground.
Electrically Operated Circuit Breaker: A type of breaker that uses electrical energy to trip the breaker in response to an overcurrent condition.
Electromagnetic Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses an electromagnet to detect and interrupt over-current conditions.
Electromagnetic Trip (EMT): A type of trip unit that combines thermal and magnetic elements, and that provides both overcurrent and overheat protection for a circuit breaker.
Electromagnetic Trip Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses an electromagnetic release mechanism to trip in response to overcurrent conditions.
Electronic Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses electronic components to detect and interrupt the flow of electrical current, typically used in modern electrical systems.
Electronic Trip Unit: A type of trip unit that uses electronic components and microprocessors, and that provides advanced protection features, such as communication, metering, and diagnostics, as well as improved accuracy, stability, and reliability.
Electronic Trip: A type of trip unit that uses microprocessors, and that provides digital protection, control, and communication, for the breaker, and that can be programmed and customized, based on the system requirements and the protection needs.
Endurance: The maximum number of operations a circuit breaker can perform before failure.
Frame Size: The dimension of the circuit breaker housing, and that determines the maximum current rating and the physical size of the breaker.
Frequency Rating: The range of frequencies a circuit breaker is designed to handle.
Fuse Panel: A type of load center that uses fuses to distribute power to individual circuits.
Fuse: A type of overcurrent protection device that contains a fuse element that melts when the current exceeds a specified value, and that provides a visual indication of the fault condition.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): A device designed to detect and interrupt ground faults in electrical wiring.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt ground fault conditions that can lead to electrocution.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt ground faults, and to protect against electrical shock and electrocution, in residential and commercial applications.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt ground faults, which are dangerous electrical malfunctions that can cause electrocution.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt ground faults, which are electrical current leaks to ground that can pose a shock hazard.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt ground faults, which occur when electrical current leaks to the ground.
Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to quickly detect and interrupt ground faults.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): A type of circuit breaker that is specifically designed to detect and interrupt ground faults in electrical circuits.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): A type of circuit breaker that provides protection against electrical shock by detecting and tripping in the presence of ground faults.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Outlet (GFCI Outlet): A type of electrical outlet that is designed to detect and interrupt ground fault conditions that can lead to electrocution.
Ground Fault Current Interrupter (GFCI): A type of protective device designed to detect and interrupt ground faults.
Ground fault current: The current that flows to ground during a ground fault.
Ground Fault Detection and Interrupt (GFDI): A feature that is integrated into a circuit breaker to detect and interrupt ground faults.
Ground Fault Protection: A protective device or system that prevents a circuit from being damaged or destroyed by a ground fault, which occurs when electrical current leaks to the ground.
Ground Fault Protection: A type of protection provided by circuit breakers that detects and interrupts the flow of electrical current when it deviates from its normal path, indicating a ground fault.
Ground Fault Protection: A type of protection that is provided by a circuit breaker, and that is designed to detect and interrupt ground faults, which occur when current flows to earth through a path other than the normal return path.
Ground Fault Protection: A type of protection that trips the breaker, when a fault occurs between the phase and the ground, and that provides protection against ground faults, and improved safety and reliability of the system.
Ground fault protection: A type of protection used in electrical power systems that detects and isolates ground faults, preventing damage to equipment and reducing the risk of injury to personnel.
Ground fault relay: A type of protection relay that is used to detect and isolate ground faults in electrical power systems.
Ground Fault Trip Unit: A type of protection unit that is used to detect and trip the breaker, in case of a ground fault, and that provides fast and reliable protection, and improved safety and reliability of the system.
Ground Fault: A dangerous electrical condition that occurs when electrical current strays from its intended path and flows into the earth, potentially causing electrocution.
Ground Fault: A fault that occurs when the current flowing in a circuit takes an unintended path to ground.
Ground fault: A type of electrical fault that occurs when the current flowing in a system deviates from its intended path, flowing to ground instead.
Ground fault: An electrical fault in which current flows from a hot conductor to ground.
Ground Wire: An electrical conductor that is used to provide a path of low resistance for stray electrical current to return to the source and improve safety.
Grounded Wire: A wire that is connected to the earth or to a common ground, usually for safety purposes.
Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter Receptacle (GFCI Receptacle): A type of electrical receptacle that integrates a GFCI device to provide protection against ground faults.
Grounding Busbar: A metal bar in an electrical panel that is used as a central connection point for ground wires.
Grounding Electrode: A metal conductor that is buried in the earth and used to provide a path for electrical current to return to the source and improve safety.
Grounding System: A system of electrical conductors and ground rods used to provide a low-resistance path for electrical current to return to the source and improve safety.
Grounding: The process of connecting electrical equipment to earth or a common ground in order to reduce the risk of shock and improve safety.
High resistance grounding: A method of electrical grounding in which the ground connection provides a high impedance path, reducing the flow of fault current but still providing a safe ground for personnel.
High voltage circuit breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed to interrupt high voltage electrical circuits.
High-Temperature Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed to operate in high temperature environments, typically used in industrial applications.
High-Voltage Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed for use in high-voltage electrical systems.
Hold Current: The amount of current that an over-current protection device can continuously carry without tripping.
Hot Wire: A live electrical conductor that carries electrical current from the source to the load.
Indicator Light: A breaker accessory that provides a visual signal, such as a green or red light, to indicate the breaker’s status or operation, such as on or off, normal or tripped.
Instantaneous protection: A type of protection that trips immediately upon detection of a fault, without any time delay.
Instantaneous Trip: A type of trip curve that is used in electronic trip units, and that shows that the breaker will trip immediately, when the current reaches a set value, and that provides protection against very fast and high-current faults, with a highest priority.
Instantaneous Trip: A type of trip unit that operates without time delay, and that trips the breaker immediately upon sensing an overcurrent.
Insulated Case Circuit Breaker (ICCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses an insulated case to provide insulation and mechanical protection.
Insulated Case Circuit Breaker (ICCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses an insulated case to separate the breaker components from the live parts, and that provides increased safety, reduced maintenance, and improved performance, for low-voltage and medium-voltage applications.
Insulated Case Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that has an insulating material between the breaker and the electrical panel, providing protection against electric shock.
Interrupting Rating: The maximum current a circuit breaker is capable of interrupting without damage to the breaker or its components.
Interrupting Rating: The maximum current that a breaker is capable of safely interrupting in the event of a fault, typically expressed in amperes (A).
Inverse time characteristic: A characteristic of a protection system that determines the time taken for the protection to trip based on the magnitude of the fault current.
Inverse Time Characteristic: A type of trip curve that is used in thermal and magnetic trip units, and that shows that the breaker will trip faster, as the current increases, and that provides protection against severe faults, with a higher priority.
Isolation Switch: A switch designed to provide isolation of a portion of an electrical system.
Isolation: The process of disconnecting a portion of an electrical system so that it is electrically isolated from other parts of the system.
Isolator Switch: A type of switch that provides a means of safely isolating a load or a component from the power source, and that includes a manual or motorized operating mechanism, a locking device, and a visual or electrical indication.
Life Expectancy: The expected lifespan of a circuit breaker based on the number of operations it is expected to perform.
Load Break Switch (LBS): A type of switch that is designed for use in low voltage power distribution systems, typically below 1000V, and that provides manual or remote switching operations, for the purpose of isolating or connecting a load.
Load center: A central distribution point for electrical circuits in a building, typically containing multiple circuit breakers.
Load Center: A device that houses multiple circuit breakers and distributes electrical power to different circuits within a building or facility.
Load Center: An assembly of circuit breakers or fuses that are used to distribute power to individual circuits in a building.
Load Center: An electrical distribution panel that contains the main breaker and other circuit breakers.
Long time delay: A time delay setting in a protection system that allows for a longer time for the protection to trip, typically used in systems where the expected fault current is low or where the consequences of a false trip are severe.
Long-Time Trip: A type of trip unit that operates with a long time delay, and that allows a sustained overcurrent to flow for a specified time, before tripping the breaker to prevent overloading and damage.
Low Voltage Circuit Breaker (LVCB): A type of circuit breaker that is designed for use in low voltage power distribution systems, typically below 1000V, and that provides protection against overloading, short-circuiting, and fault conditions.
Low Voltage Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed to protect low voltage electrical systems, typically used in residential and commercial buildings.
Magnetic Only Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses a magnetic element to detect and interrupt the flow of electrical current, typically used in low-voltage systems.
Magnetic Trip Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses magnetic forces to trip in response to overcurrent conditions.
Magnetic Trip Unit: A component of a breaker that is responsible for detecting and tripping in the event of an overcurrent condition, using a magnetic field.
Magnetic Trip Unit: A device within a circuit breaker that uses a magnetic field generated by current flow to trigger the breaker to trip.
Magnetic Trip: A type of protection provided by circuit breakers that uses a magnetic field to detect and interrupt the flow of electrical current in the event of an overload or short circuit.
Magnetic trip: A type of trip mechanism that operates based on the magnetic effect of current flow on the circuit breaker.
Magnetic Trip: A type of trip unit that operates based on the magnetic field generated by the flow of current, and that trips the breaker to prevent overloading and damage.
Magnetic Trip: A type of trip unit that uses an electromagnet, and that trips the breaker when the current causes the magnetic field to build up, and to attract a trip bar, and that provides protection against short-circuits of the system.
Main Breaker: A large circuit breaker located in the main breaker panel that provides overall over-current protection for the entire electrical system.
Main Breaker: A large circuit breaker that provides over-current protection for the entire load center.
Main breaker: A large circuit breaker that serves as the main disconnecting device for an electrical system.
Main Breaker: The largest circuit breaker in a load center or service entrance panel that serves as the main disconnect for all circuits within the building or facility.
Main Circuit Breaker: A protective device that is located at the main electrical panel and is responsible for shutting off the supply of electricity to the entire system in case of an emergency or fault.
Manual Reset Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that requires manual intervention to reset the breaker after it has tripped (interrupted the flow of electrical current).
Manual Transfer Switch (MTS): A switch that allows a user to manually transfer power from one source to another, such as from utility power to a backup generator.
Mechanically Operated Circuit Breaker: A type of breaker that uses mechanical energy to trip the breaker in response to an overcurrent condition.
Microprocessor-Based Trip Unit: A type of trip unit that uses a microprocessor and digital technology, to provide advanced protection, metering, and communication features, for a circuit breaker.
Miniature circuit breaker (MCB): A small, low-voltage circuit breaker that is typically used to protect individual circuits in a building.
Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): A type of circuit breaker that is designed for use in low-voltage and low-current applications, such as residential and light commercial electrical systems.
Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): A type of circuit breaker that is designed for use in low-voltage electrical systems.
Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to protect smaller electrical circuits and typically has a lower current rating than other types of circuit breakers.
Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): A type of circuit breaker that is small in size and used to protect low-voltage electrical circuits.
Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): A type of circuit breaker that is smaller in size than a molded case breaker, and that is used for low-voltage and residential applications, providing protection against overloading, short-circuits, and ground faults.
Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): A type of circuit breaker that is smaller than a molded case circuit breaker, typically used in residential and light commercial applications.
Miniature Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is smaller in size and designed to protect low voltage electrical circuits.
Minimum pickup current: The minimum level of current that a protection system must detect before it trips.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): A type of circuit breaker that has a molded plastic case and uses a mechanism to trip the breaker, based on the detection of overcurrent, undervoltage, or short-circuit conditions.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): A type of circuit breaker that is designed for use in medium-voltage electrical systems.
Molded case circuit breaker (MCCB): A type of circuit breaker that is encased in a molded plastic or metal housing.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses a molded case to protect the breaker’s internal components and provide insulation and mechanical support.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses a molded insulating case to protect the breaker’s internal components.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses a molded plastic case to enclose the breaker components, and that provides a compact and cost-effective solution for low-voltage and medium-voltage applications.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses a molded plastic case to house the breaker components and provide insulation and protection.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses molded plastic or insulating material as its outer casing.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that has a molded case, providing protection against electrical shock, impact, and moisture.
Motor Protection Circuit Breaker (MPCB): A type of circuit breaker that is specifically designed for use with electric motors, and that provides protection against overloading, short-circuiting, and thermal overload, for the motor and the system.
Neutral Wire: An electrical conductor that carries current back to the source in a balanced distribution system.
Neutral: A conductor in an electrical system that carries current back to the source in a balanced distribution system.
Overcurrent Protection: A device or function in a circuit breaker that limits the amount of current flowing in a circuit.
Over-Current Protection: A device or system that is designed to interrupt the flow of electrical current in the event of an over-current condition.
Overcurrent Protection: A type of protection provided by circuit breakers that detects and interrupts the flow of electrical current when it exceeds a certain level.
Overcurrent protection: A type of protection that trips when the current in a system exceeds a predetermined level.
Overcurrent: A flow of current that exceeds the maximum level that a circuit is designed to handle.
Overload Protection: A protective device or system that prevents a circuit from being damaged or destroyed by excessive electrical current.
Overload: A condition where the current flowing in a circuit exceeds its normal operating range, but does not cause a fault.
Overload: A dangerous electrical condition that occurs when too much current flows through a circuit, causing it to heat up and potentially causing a fire.
Overvoltage protection: A type of protection that trips when the voltage in a system exceeds a predetermined level.
Pickup current: The level of current that a protection system must detect before it trips.
Recloser: A type of circuit breaker that automatically recloses after a fault, and that provides multiple reclosing operations, in order to clear the fault and restore the power supply, if possible.
Reclosing: The process of closing a circuit breaker after it has tripped, and that is used for fault clearing, load shedding, or load restoration, depending on the type of fault, the protection settings, and the system requirements.
Remote Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that can be controlled remotely, either manually or by a control system.
Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB): A type of circuit breaker that detects and trips in the presence of residual current, which can indicate a potential electrical fault or ground fault.
Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt residual current conditions, which occur when there is a difference between the current entering and leaving a circuit.
Residual Current Device (RCD): A type of circuit breaker that is designed to detect and interrupt residual currents, which are dangerous electrical malfunctions that can cause electrocution.
Ronald Legarski Circuit Breaker: Terminology and Definitions.
Sectionalizer: A type of circuit breaker that is installed in a distribution system, and that provides isolation of a portion of the system, for maintenance or repair, without affecting the rest of the system.
Selective Coordination: A principle that ensures that, in case of a fault, only the circuit breaker closest to the fault opens, and that the rest of the system remains energized, providing protection and power continuity to the unaffected parts of the system.
Selective coordination: A type of protection system design in which the protective devices are coordinated such that the fault current is limited to the section of the system affected by the fault, minimizing the impact of a fault on the rest of the system.
Selective Coordination: The arrangement of circuit breakers in an electrical system such that, in the event of an overcurrent condition, only the breaker closest to the source of the fault will trip, minimizing the disruption of power to other parts of the system.
Self-Resetting Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that automatically resets itself after it has tripped (interrupted the flow of electrical current).
Service Entrance Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is installed at the point where electrical service enters a building or structure.
Service Entrance Panel: A panel that serves as the main distribution point for incoming electrical power to a building or facility.
Service Entrance: The point at which electrical service enters a building from the utility power lines.
Service entrance: The point at which electrical service enters a building, typically consisting of a main breaker or fuse and a meter.
Service Life: The expected lifespan of a circuit breaker, typically measured in number of operations or years.
Service Panel: The main distribution point for electrical power in a building, often located in a basement or utility room.
SF6 Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as the insulating and arc-quenching medium, and that provides high performance, high reliability, and high environmental compatibility, for high-voltage and extra-high-voltage applications.
SF6 Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as the insulating and arc-quenching medium.
SF6 Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as the insulation and arc-quenching medium, and that provides high performance, high interrupting capacity, and long life.
SF6 circuit breaker: A type of high voltage circuit breaker that uses sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as the insulating and arc-quenching medium.
Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR): The maximum short-circuit current that a circuit breaker or other electrical equipment is rated to withstand without damage.
Short Circuit Protection: A protective device or system that prevents a circuit from being damaged or destroyed by a short circuit, which occurs when there is a direct connection between the live and neutral wires.
Short Circuit: A dangerous electrical condition that occurs when a live wire comes into direct contact with a neutral or ground wire, allowing a large amount of current to flow through the circuit.
Short circuit: A low resistance connection between two points in a circuit that results in a high current flow.
Short time delay: A time delay setting in a protection system that allows for a short time for the protection to trip, typically used in systems where the expected fault current is high and the consequences of a false trip are less severe.
Short-Circuit Current: The maximum current that a circuit breaker is capable of interrupting at a specified voltage and frequency.
Short-Circuit Rating: The maximum fault current that a breaker can safely interrupt without damage, typically expressed in kA (kilamperes).
Short-Time Trip: A type of trip unit that operates with a time delay, and that allows a limited overcurrent to flow for a specified time, before tripping the breaker to prevent overloading and damage.
Shunt Trip: A breaker accessory that allows a remote signal, such as from a fire alarm or supervisory system, to trip the breaker, interrupting the flow of current.
Shunt Trip: A mechanism in a circuit breaker that allows the breaker to be tripped remotely by an electrical signal.
Shunt Trip: An accessory for circuit breakers that allows the breaker to be tripped remotely, typically used in emergency shutdown systems.
Shunt Trip: An auxiliary device that is connected to a circuit breaker, and that allows the breaker to trip, through a separate electrical signal, and that provides remote tripping, and increased safety and control, for the breaker.
Single Pole Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that provides protection to a single electrical circuit and takes up only one space in a load center or panel.
Single-Pole Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that provides over-current protection for a single circuit.
Smart Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that includes monitoring and communication capabilities, allowing it to be integrated into a smart grid system or building management system.
Subpanel: A secondary breaker panel located in a different part of a building, used to distribute electrical power to specific areas.
Sub-panel: A secondary distribution panel that is fed by the main panel and is used to distribute power to specific areas of a building.
Sub-panel: A smaller load center that is fed by a main panel and provides power to specific circuits.
Subpanel: A smaller panel that serves as a distribution point for a subset of the circuits within a building or facility.
Surge protection: The use of devices such as surge arresters or suppressors to protect electrical equipment from damage due to surges or spikes in voltage.
Surge Protective Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is designed to protect electrical systems from surges in voltage, typically caused by lightning strikes or power outages.
Surge Protective Device (SPD): A type of circuit breaker or other device that is designed to protect electrical equipment from damage caused by surges in voltage or current.
Surge Protector: An electrical device that protects electrical equipment from damage caused by sudden spikes in voltage.
Switch Disconnector: A type of switch that provides a means of safely disconnecting a load from the power source, and that includes a manual or motorized operating mechanism, a locking device, and a visual or electrical indication.
Thermal Magnetic Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses both thermal and magnetic effects to trip in response to overcurrent conditions.
Thermal Magnetic Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses both thermal and magnetic elements to detect and interrupt the flow of electrical current.
Thermal Magnetic Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses both thermal and magnetic mechanisms to detect and interrupt over-current conditions.
Thermal Magnetic Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses both thermal and magnetic principles to trip and interrupt the flow of current.
Thermal Magnetic Trip: A type of trip unit that combines thermal and magnetic elements, and that provides protection against overloading, as well as short-circuits, by using a combination of temperature and current sensors.
Thermal Overload Protection: A type of protection provided by circuit breakers that detects and interrupts the flow of electrical current when it generates excessive heat.
Thermal Trip Unit: A component of a breaker that is responsible for detecting and tripping in the event of an overcurrent condition, using a heating effect caused by the flow of current through the breaker.
Thermal Trip Unit: A device within a circuit breaker that uses the heat generated by current flow to trigger the breaker to trip.
Thermal trip: A type of trip mechanism that operates based on the heating effect of current flow on the circuit breaker.
Thermal Trip: A type of trip unit that operates based on the temperature rise of the breaker’s current-carrying components, caused by the flow of current, and that trips the breaker to prevent overheating and damage.
Thermal Trip: A type of trip unit that uses a bimetallic element, and that trips the breaker when the current causes the element to heat up, and to deform, and that provides protection against overloading of the system.
Thermal-Magnetic Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that combines thermal and magnetic trip elements to provide both overcurrent and overload protection.
Time-Current Characteristic: A graphical representation of the relationship between the current flowing through a circuit breaker and the time it takes for the breaker to trip under different levels of current.
Timed Test: A procedure that is used to test the breaker’s long-time trip function, by intentionally applying a sustained overcurrent to the breaker, and observing its trip time and response.
Transfer Switch Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that is used in transfer switches, which switch between different power sources, such as utility power and generator power.
Transfer Switch: A device that allows for the transfer of electrical power from one source to another, such as from utility power to a backup generator.
Transfer Switch: A type of switch that provides a means of transferring a load from one power source to another, and that includes a manual or automatic operating mechanism, a synchronization system, and a visual or electrical indication.
Transfer Time: The time that is required for the automatic transfer switch to switch the power supply from one source to another, and that is an important factor for the stability, reliability, and safety of the system.
Trip Class: A rating assigned to a breaker that indicates the accuracy with which the breaker can detect and trip in response to overcurrent conditions, typically expressed as a Class rating (e.g., Class 10, Class 20, etc.).
Trip coil: A coil of wire that generates a magnetic field when energized, used to trip the breaker when the current level exceeds a certain threshold.
Trip contacts: The contacts within a circuit breaker that open to interrupt the flow of current.
Trip Current: The amount of current at which an over-current protection device will trip and interrupt the flow of electrical current.
Trip Curve: A graph showing the relationship between the current flowing through a circuit breaker and the time it takes for the breaker to trip.
Trip Curve: A graphical representation of a breaker’s trip unit, showing the relationship between current and time, and indicating the breaker’s trip time for a given current level.
Trip curve: A graphical representation of the relationship between current and trip time for a circuit breaker.
Trip Curve: A graphical representation of the relationship between the current and the time required to trip a circuit breaker, and that provides a way to choose the appropriate breaker for a given application, based on the maximum fault current and the protection time requirements.
Trip Curve: A graphical representation of the relationship between the current flowing through a circuit breaker and the time it takes for the breaker to trip and interrupt the flow of current.
Trip Curve: A graphical representation of the relationship between the magnitude of current and the time it takes for a breaker to trip in response to that current.
Trip Curve: The graphical representation of the relationship between the current and the time, and that shows how the breaker will trip, depending on the type of fault, the protection settings, and the system conditions.
Trip Free Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that trips (interrupts the flow of electrical current) even if the breaker’s handle is held in the “on” position.
Trip Free Mechanism: A feature of a circuit breaker, that allows the breaker to trip, even if the operator tries to keep it closed, and that provides safety and reliability, in case of a fault, and prevents the operator from overriding the protection.
Trip Free Mechanism: A feature of circuit breakers that allows the breaker to trip even if the operating handle is held in the “on” position.
Trip Free Mechanism: A feature that is incorporated in a circuit breaker, and that ensures that the breaker trips automatically, regardless of the position of the operating handle, and that provides safety against erroneous or accidental operation.
Trip Indicator: A device that is incorporated in a circuit breaker, and that provides a visual or electrical indication of the tripped status of the breaker, for the purpose of troubleshooting and maintenance.
Trip lever: A lever that physically opens the breaker contacts when the trip function is activated.
Trip Lockout: A function that is provided by a circuit breaker, and that prevents accidental or unauthorized tripping of the breaker, by locking the trip mechanism, after a certain number of trips, or by requiring a manual reset.
Trip Setting: The amount of current required to trip a circuit breaker.
Trip Settings: The adjustable parameters on a circuit breaker trip unit, such as the trip current, trip time, and trip curve, that determine the breaker’s response to overcurrent conditions.
Trip Settings: The parameters that are used by the trip unit of a circuit breaker, to determine the conditions for tripping the breaker, such as the trip current, the time delay, the pickup current, and the reset function.
Trip Test: A procedure that is used to verify the breaker’s trip unit and trip characteristics, by intentionally applying an overcurrent to the breaker and observing its trip time and response.
Trip Test: A test that is performed on a circuit breaker, and that verifies the operation of the trip unit, the trip indicator, and the trip settings, by applying a simulated fault current and checking the tripping performance.
Trip threshold: The level of current at which a circuit breaker will trip and interrupt the flow of current.
Trip Time: The amount of time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip after being subjected to a current exceeding its trip setting.
Trip Time: The amount of time it takes for an over-current protection device to trip and interrupt the flow of electrical current.
Trip Time: The time it takes for a breaker to respond to an overcurrent condition and trip, typically expressed in seconds.
Trip time: The time it takes for a circuit breaker to trip after the trip threshold has been exceeded.
Trip Unit: A device that is incorporated in a circuit breaker, and that provides the functionality of measuring the current, determining the fault condition, and tripping the breaker, based on predetermined settings and algorithms.
Trip Unit: The component within a circuit breaker that monitors the flow of current and triggers the breaker to trip and interrupt the flow of current in the event of an overload or short circuit.
Trip Unit: The electronic device within a circuit breaker that senses an overcurrent and trips the breaker, interrupting the flow of current.
Trip Unit: The internal mechanism of a circuit breaker that controls and triggers the opening of the breaker contacts.
Trip unit: The internal mechanism of a circuit breaker that senses current levels and initiates the trip function.
Trip Unit: The part of a circuit breaker that senses the current flow, and that determines when to trip the breaker, based on the current value, the time elapsed, and the protection settings, and that provides the logic and control functions of the breaker.
Triple Pole Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that provides protection to three electrical circuits and takes up three spaces in a load center or panel.
Tripping Mechanism: The mechanism within a circuit breaker that physically interrupts the flow of current when the breaker trips.
Undervoltage Release: An accessory for circuit breakers that allows the breaker to trip when the voltage in the electrical system falls below a certain level.
Undervoltage Trip (UVT): A feature in a circuit breaker that trips when the voltage in the circuit falls below a certain level.
Undervoltage Trip: A breaker accessory that operates based on the voltage level of the electrical system, and that trips the breaker when the voltage drops below a specified level, to prevent damage or disruption to the system.
Undervoltage Trip: A type of protection that trips the breaker, when the voltage drops below a set value, and that provides protection against low-voltage conditions, and improved system stability and reliability.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses a vacuum as the arc-quenching medium, providing reliable and low-maintenance operation in high-voltage applications.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses a vacuum as the insulating medium between the contacts.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses a vacuum as the insulation and arc-quenching medium, and that provides high reliability, low maintenance, and fast switching operations.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses a vacuum to extinguish an arc in the event of an over-current.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses vacuum as the insulating medium, and that provides high reliability, low maintenance, and fast operation, for medium-voltage and high-voltage applications.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB): A type of circuit breaker that uses vacuum as the primary insulation and interruption medium.
Vacuum circuit breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses a vacuum as the insulating medium between the contacts.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that uses vacuum as the insulating medium to interrupt the flow of electrical current.
Vacuum Circuit Breaker: A type of high-voltage circuit breaker that uses a vacuum to interrupt the flow of electrical current.
Voltage Rating: The maximum operating voltage of a breaker, typically expressed in volts (V).
Voltage Rating: The maximum voltage that a circuit breaker is rated to handle.
Voltage: A measure of the electrical potential difference in a circuit, expressed in volts (V).
Wattage: A measure of the rate at which electrical energy is used, expressed in watts (W).
Withdrawable Circuit Breaker: A type of circuit breaker that allows the breaker to be removed from the panel, for maintenance, repair, or replacement, without disconnecting the power supply to the system, and that provides improved accessibility, flexibility, and reliability.
Zero sequence impedance: The impedance of a system or network with respect to zero sequence current. It is used to determine the zero-sequence fault current in the system and to calculate the fault current in the system under zero-sequence fault conditions.
Zero-sequence overcurrent protection: A type of protection used in high-voltage electrical power systems that is used to detect and isolate zero-sequence faults, such as earth faults, in the system.
Zonal protection: A protection scheme in which the electrical power system is divided into a number of zones, each with its own protection devices, to reduce the impact of a fault and to allow a quicker restoration of power.
Zone of protection: The defined area of protection for a particular protection device, such as a circuit breaker, where the device is expected to operate and clear a fault.
Z-system: A type of protection system used in high-voltage electrical power systems, where the protection functions are integrated into a single unit, or protection relay, as opposed to having separate protection devices for each function.
Z-Type (ZSI) Circuit Breaker: A type of selective protection device designed to break only the faulted circuit, leaving the remaining circuits unaffected.

Electricity