ABOUT L&T

Larsen & Toubro is a Technology, Engineering, Construction, Manufacturing and Services

company with global operations.

It sustains leadership in its major lines of business through a customer-focused approach, an

innovative culture and the ability to respond positively to challenging requirements.

L&T Electrical & Automation is India s largest switchgear company that manufactures and
markets low and medium voltage switchgear products, electrical systems, energy meters and
automation solutions.

Its products and solutions address the power distribution and control needs of industry, utility,
infrastructure, buildings & homes and agriculture segments.

L&T promotes a culture of innovation and creation of intellectual property. Its products and
solutions have been in use at many landmark installations of the country and continue to
prove their high performance and reliability.
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EN
L&T
L&T offers its new range of Modular Devices EXORA to
ensure a safe environment around you. Protection and
Control devices offered in this range provide safety at your
home and at your workplace. Salient features of this range
Quick Break Mechanism, True Contact Position Indicator,
Energy Limitation Class 3 enhance safety of human lives
and precious belongings.

Further, Low Watt loss of these products reduces the

amount of electricity consumed and results in low electricity
expense. Features such as Dual Termination and Two
Position DIN Clip provide flexibility and ease of operation.
MODULAR DEVICES

1. Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs)

2. Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs)

11

3. Isolators

16
Technical Index
 MCB (10kA)
Miniature Circuit Breaker

The MCB is a vital protection device. It is essential in every electrical installation to safeguar d both your life and
valuable property against short-circuit and overload.

Features and Benefits

Conforms to IS/IEC 60898-1, IEC 60947-2

Characteristic Tripping curves B, C & D

Energy limiting Class 3 allows low let-through energy in the system

Unique patented design gives both label holder and true contact indication facility for individual poles

Low watt loss almost 50% of the values prescribed by IEC 60898-1 saves energy

Trip free mechanism to ensure maximum safety

Design based on advanced current limiting hammer trip mechanism ensures quick breaking

No line load bias gives flexibility for incomer supply termination on either sides

Dual termination on both sides of MCB

Accessories wide range of accessories like aux contact, trip alarm contact and shunt r elease

DC MCB as per IEC 60947-2 : Rated Voltage: 130 V DC (for SP), 250 V DC (for DP)*

conformity

1 * 6kA breaking capacity for DC

 Terminals suitable
up to 35 sq mm cable

Dual Termination

2-position DIN-Rail clip

ease of installation

True Contact
Indication
enhanced safety

Label Holder

IP-20 Finger-proof terminals eliminate

chances of accidental contact

2
Technical Specifications MCB

Specification IS / IEC 60898-1, IEC 60947-2 DC MCBs - IEC 60947-2

Current Rating 0.5 to 63A
Tripping Characteristic B, C and D curve -
Breaking Capacity IS/IEC 60898-1 : 10 kA
IEC 60947-2 : 15kA (0.5A to 40A) 6kA (1 Break/Pole)
(C Curve) 10kA (50A & 63A)

Rated Voltage 130V DC - Single Pole

240 / 415 V AC
250V DC - Double Pole
Frequency 50 to 60 Hz -
Rated Impulse Voltage 4 kV
Rated Insulation Voltage 500 V
Minimum Operating Voltage 24 V AC 24 V DC
Degree of Protection IP 20
Applied Connection Torque 6Nm
Operating Temperature - 25° C to + 70° C

Calibration Temperature 30° C

Termination Capacity 35 mm2 (Rigid)

25 mm2 (Flexible)

Mechanical Life >100,000

(operating cycles)
20,000
Electrical Life (cos Ø = 0.85 to 0.9) 6A to 32A
As per IEC 60947-2
(operating cycles) 10,000
(cos Ø = 0.85 to 0.9) for 40A to 63A

Mounting Position Horizontal/Vertical/Flat

Mounting Snap fixing on standard profile 35 X 7.5mm DIN-Rail as per EN 50022

Dimensions
36.5
ON

20.5

87.3
45

85

67
47°
OFF

30.5
39.5

31 5.5
36.5 17.5 35 52.5 70
41
43
59.6 1 - POLE 2 - POLE 3 - POLE 4 - POLE
69
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3
 Modules
Current B-Curve C-Curve D-Curve DC MCBs
1 Mod=
Rating (In) Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos.
Single-Pole (SP) 17.5mm

0.5A 1 - BB10E50C BB10E50D BB10E5DC

1A 1 - BB10010C BB10010D BB1001DC

2A 1 - BB10020C BB10020D BB1002DC

3A 1 - BB10030C BB10030D BB1003DC

4A 1 - BB10040C BB10040D BB1004DC

6A 1 BB10060B BB10060C BB10060D BB1006DC

10A 1 BB10100B BB10100C BB10100D BB1010DC

16A 1 BB10160B BB10160C BB10160D BB1016DC

20A 1 BB10200B BB10200C BB10200D BB1020DC

25A 1 BB10250B BB10250C BB10250D BB1025DC

32A 1 BB10320B BB10320C BB10320D BB1032DC

40A 1 BB10400B BB10400C BB10400D BB1040DC

50A 1 BB10500B BB10500C BB10500D BB1050DC

63A 1 BB10630B BB10630C BB10630D BB1063DC

Modules
Current B-Curve C-Curve D-Curve DC MCBs
1 Mod=
Rating (In) Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos.
17.5mm
Double-Pole (DP)
0.5A 2 - BB20E50C BB20E50D BB20E5DC

1A 2 - BB20010C BB20010D BB2001DC

2A 2 - BB20020C BB20020D BB2002DC

3A 2 - BB20030C BB20030D BB2003DC

4A 2 - BB20040C BB20040D BB2004DC

6A 2 BB20060B BB20060C BB20060D BB2006DC

10A 2 BB20100B BB20100C BB20100D BB2010DC

16A 2 BB20160B BB20160C BB20160D BB2016DC

20A 2 BB20200B BB20200C BB20200D BB2020DC

25A 2 BB20250B BB20250C BB20250D BB2025DC

32A 2 BB20320B BB20320C BB20320D BB2032DC

40A 2 BB20400B BB20400C BB20400D BB2040DC

50A 2 BB20500B BB20500C BB20500D BB2050DC

63A 2 BB20630B BB20630C BB20630D BB2063DC

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 Current Modules B-Curve C-Curve D-Curve
Rating (In) 1 Mod= Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos.
Three-Pole (TP) 17.5mm

0.5A 3 - BB30E50C BB30E50D

1A 3 - BB30010C BB30010D

2A 3 - BB30020C BB30020D

3A 3 - BB30030C BB30030D

4A 3 - BB30040C BB30040D

6A 3 BB30060B BB30060C BB30060D

10A 3 BB30100B BB30100C BB30100D

16A 3 BB30160B BB30160C BB30160D

20A 3 BB30200B BB30200C BB30200D

25A 3 BB30250B BB30250C BB30250D

32A 3 BB30320B BB30320C BB30320D

40A 3 BB30400B BB30400C BB30400D

50A 3 BB30500B BB30500C BB30500D

63A 3 BB30630B BB30630C BB30630D

Current Modules B-Curve C-Curve D-Curve

Rating (In) 1 Mod= Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos. Cat. Nos.
Four-Pole (FP) 17.5mm

0.5A 4 - BB40E50C BB40E50D

1A 4 - BB40010C BB40010D

2A 4 - BB40020C BB40020D

3A 4 - BB40030C BB40030D

4A 4 - BB40040C BB40040D

6A 4 BB40060B BB40060C BB40060D

10A 4 BB40100B BB40100C BB40100D

16A 4 BB40160B BB40160C BB40160D

20A 4 BB40200B BB40200C BB40200D

25A 4 BB40250B BB40250C BB40250D

32A 4 BB40320B BB40320C BB40320D

40A 4 BB40400B BB40400C BB40400D

50A 4 BB40500B BB40500C BB40500D

63A 4 BB40630B BB40630C BB40630D

5
 Auxiliaries and Accessories
10 kA MCBs

L&T MCBs can be fitted with a wide range of accessories like the auxiliary contact, shunt release and trip alarm
contact.

Auxiliary & Accessories for 10kA MCBs

Description Cat. Nos.

Auxiliary Contact 240V AC, 6A (1NO+1NC), 1/2 module BZA11006

Shunt Release 240V AC, 1 module BZS00240

Trip Alarm Contact - 240V AC, 6A (1NO + 1NC),1/2 module BZT11006

6
 RCCB
Residual Current Circuit Breaker

Residual Current Circuit Breakers provide protection against earth leakage fault. They ensure safety of human
life in case of earth leakage fault and protection against electric shock.

Features and Benefits

Conforms to IS 12640-(Part 1), IEC 61008-1

Rated conditional short-circuit current 10 kA

L&T RCCBs are available in DP and FP versions from 25A to 100A ratings with 30mA, 100mA and
300mA sensitivity

Truly current operated operation even at low voltage

Operates on Core Balance Current Transformer (CBCT) principle

Neutral advance mechanism ensures complete protection

Finger-proof terminal (IP 20)

Dual termination on both sides

7
 Protection Devices RCCB

Finger-proof Dual Termination

terminal IP 20 suitable for Bus-
bar and / or wire
up to 50 sq mm

Test button Facilitates

to check healthiness of
device by creating an
artificial electrical fault
Combi-head screws
allows use of standard
as well as Philips head
screwdriver

8
Technical Specifications RCCB

Specification IS 12640 Part 1 / IEC 61008-1

RCCB Type AC

Rated Current ( In ) A 25, 40, 63, 100

Operating Sensitivity mA 30, 100, 300

No. of Poles 2 and 4 Pole

Rated Voltage 240/415 V AC

Rated Frequency 50/60 Hz

Rated Insulation Voltage 500 V

Rated Impulse Withstand Voltage 4 kV

Rated Conditional Short-Circuit Current 10 kA

Rated Residual Making and

1 kA
Breaking Capacity

Degree of Protection IP 20
50 mm2 (Rigid)
Termination Capacity
35 mm2 (Flexible)
Operating Temperature -5°C to + 55°C

Mechanical Life
20,000
(operating cycles)

Electrical Life (up to 63A)

10,000
(operating cycles)

Mounting Arrangement Snap-fit on 35 mm DIN-Rail

* For back-up short circuit protection device, please refer to page no. 27

Dimensions

71.6 52.5
17.5 71.53
17.5
45

36
83
35.5
45

83

3.3

5.5
50 71
5.5 66
3.3

50 35
66
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9
Current Sensitivity Modules 1 Mod= Cat Nos.
Rating 17.5mm Double-Pole (DP)
(In)

25A 30mA 2 BG202503

100mA 2 BG202510

300mA 2 BG202530

40A 30mA 2 BG204003

100mA 2 BG204010

300mA 2 BG204030

63A 30mA 2 BG206303

100mA 2 BG206310

300mA 2 BG206330

100A 30mA 2 BG210003

100mA 2 BG210010

300mA 2 BG210030

Current Sensitivity Modules 1 Mod= Cat Nos.

Rating 17.5mm
(In) Four-Pole (FP)
25A 30mA 4 BG402503

100mA 4 BG402510

300mA 4 BG402530

40A 30mA 4 BG404003

100mA 4 BG404010

300mA 4 BG404030

63A 30mA 4 BG406303

100mA 4 BG406310

300mA 4 BG406330

100A 30mA 4 BG410003

100mA 4 BG410010

300mA 4 BG410030

10
 ISOLATORS

Isolators are used in electrical installations to make, carry and break circuit current. The Isolator ensures that
the circuit remains completely isolated i.e. there will be no current at the load side even if the impulse voltage
appears when the isolator is OFF.

Features and Benefits

Conforms to EN/IEC 60947-3

Suitable for AC22-A utilization category

Available in DP, TP and FP versions in 40A, 63A, 80A and 100A ratings

Easy mounting due to two-position DIN-Rail clip

Combi-head screws allows use of multiple screwdrivers

True contact indication enhances safety

and certified

11
 Terminals suitable up to 35 sq mm
cable and dual termination

2 position DIN-Rail clip

ease of installation

True Contact
Indication
enhanced safety

IP-20 Finger-proof terminals eliminate

chances of accidental contact

12
Technical Specifications ISOLATORS

Specification EN / IEC 60947 3

Rated Current (In) 40A, 63A, 80A, 100A

No. of Poles 2, 3 and 4

Rated Operational Voltage (AC) 240/415 V

Rated Frequency 50 Hz

Rated Insulation Voltage 500 V

Rated Impulse Voltage 4 kV

Utilization Category AC 22A

Degree of Protection IP 20

35 mm2 (Rigid)
Termination Capacity
25 mm2 (Flexible)

Operating Temperature -5°C to + 50°C

Mounting Arrangement Snap-fit on 35 mm DIN rail

Rated Short Time Withstand Current, Icw 12 In , 1 sec

Dimensions
36.5
ON

20.5
470

67.0
87.3
85
45

OFF

30.5
39.5

31 5.5
35 52.5 70
36.5
41
43
2 - POLE 3 - POLE 4 - POLE
59.6

69

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 Current Modules
Modules 1 Cat. Nos
Double Pole (DP) Current
Rating (In) Mod= 17.5mm Cat. Nos
Rating (In) 1Mod = 17.5mm

40 2 BF204000

63 2 BF206300

80 2 BF208000

100 2 BF210000

Current Modules
Three Pole (TP)
Cat. Nos.
Rating (In) 1Mod = 17.5mm

40 3 BF304000

63 3 BF306300

80 3 BF308000

100 3 BF310000

Current Modules
Four Pole (FP) Rating (In) 1Mod = 17.5mm
Cat. Nos.

40 4 BF404000

63 4 BF406300

80 4 BF408000

100 4 BF410000

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Ingress Protection (IP)

The protection of enclosures against ingress of dirt or against the ingress of water is defined in IEC529 (BSEN60529:1991).
Conversely, an enclosure which protects equipment against ingress of particles will also protect a person from potential
hazards within that enclosure, and this degree of protection is also defined as a standard.

The degrees of protection are most commonly expressed as 'IP' followed by two numbers, e.g. IP65, where the numbers
define the degree of protection.

1st Digit 2nd Digit

Protection against Human Contact/ Protection against Water Ingress
Protection against Foreign Bodies

No special protection No special protection

With back of hand / large foreign Water dripping vertically

bodies, diam. >50mm
Water dripping at an angle (up to 15
With a finger / medium-sized degrees from the vertical)
foreign bodies, diam. >12.5mm
Spray water (any direction up to 60
With tools and wires etc. with a degrees from the vertical)
thickness >2.5mm / small foreign
bodies, diam. >2.5mm Spray water from all directions

With tools and wires etc. with a Water jets from a nozzle in all directions
thickness >1mm / granular
foreign bodies, diam. >1mm
High pressure jets
Complete protection / dust
protected Temporary immersion

Complete protection / dust-proof Permanent immersion

15
TECHNICAL INDEX
1. Basics of Electrical System and General
Electrical Practices
1.1 Types of faults

1.2 Safety requirement

2. Earthing Systems
2.1 Types of Earthing systems

2.2 Comparison of Earthing systems

2.3 Choice of Earthing

3. Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB)

3.1 Selection of MCB

3.2 Application of different curves

3.3 Temperature de-rating chart

3.4 I-T characteristics

3.5 Watt loss table

4. Residual Current Devices

4.1 Danger of electrocution

4.2 Working of residual current devices

4.3 Precautions for installation

4.4 Fault finding when RCCB trips

4.5 I-T characteristics

5. Surge Protection Device (SPD)

5.1 SPD classification

5.2 Installation and wiring

5.3 SPD selection

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Basics of Electrical System and General Electrical Practices

Overvoltage stressing the insulation beyond its limits.

Fault
Under frequency causing plant to behave incorrectly.
A fault can be defined as any abnormal flow of electric Power swings generators going out-of-step or
current, in an electric power system. synchronism with each other.

Types of faults Safety Requirements

Faults can be broadly classified into two main areas.
Some of the important safety requirements in electrical
1. Active Fault installations in domestic dwellings are summarized below:
2. Passive Fault a. All outlets for domestic electrical appliances shall be
of three-pin socket type, the third socket being
1. Active Fault connected to the earth.
An Active fault occurs when actual current flows from one b. All the single-pole switches shall be on phase or live
phase conductor to another (phase-to-phase) or conductor only.
alternatively from one phase conductor to earth (phase-to-
c. The electrical outlets for appliances in the bathrooms
earth). This type of fault can also be further classified into
shall be away from the shower or sink.
two areas, namely the solid fault and the incipient fault.
d. Wiring for power outlets in the kitchen shall be
Solid fault preferably done in metallic conduit wiring.
The solid fault occurs as a result of an immediate complete e. The electrical outlets shall not be located above the
breakdown of insulation. For example a pick struck an gas stove.
underground cable, bridging conductors etc.
f. The clearance between the bottom-most point of the
Incipient fault ceiling fan and the floor shall be not less than 2.4 m.

An incipient fault is a fault that starts from very small g. The metallic body of the fan regulator if any, shall be
beginnings, say some partial discharge (excessive electronic earthed effectively.
activity often referred to as corona) in a void in the h. Earth leakage circuit-breaker at the intake of power
insulation, increasing and developing over an extended supply at the consumer's premises shall be provided.
period, until such time as it burns away adjacent insulation,
eventually running away and developing into a "solid"
fault.

2. Passive Fault
Passive faults are not real faults in the true sense of the
word, but are conditions that stress the system beyond its
design capacity, so that ultimately active faults will occur.
Examples of passive faults Overloading leading to
overheating of insulation (deteriorating quality, reduced life
and ultimate failure).

17
Earthing 1. TT system If the neutral of the source & protective
earth (PE) conductor at the consumer end are earthed
According to BS 7671 five types of earthing are specified. separately, the system is called TT system. The system is as
TT- Earthing system shown in the figure.

TN-S Earthing system With TT, the consumer must provide their own connection
to earth, i.e. by installing a suitable earth electrode local to
TN-C system
the installation. The circumstances in which a distributor
TN-C-S system may not provide a means of earthing for the consumer
IT-system where the distributor cannot guarantee the earth
connection back to the source, e.g. a low voltage overhead
In the above systems,
supply or where there is the likelihood of the earth wire
T = Earth (from the French word Terre) either becoming somehow disconnected or even stolen.
N = Neutral

S = Separate TT System
L
C = Combined
Installation
I = Isolated N Equipment

When designing an electrical installation, one of the first

things to determine is the type of earthing system. The
system will either be TN-S, TN-C-S Protective Multiple TT
Earthing (PME) or TT for a low voltage supply given in
Source Consumer’s
accordance with the Electricity Safety, Quality and Earth Earth
Continuity Regulations 2002.

2. TN- S system
In this system, the N and PE neutral
conductors are separate. PE and N
TN-S system conductors are mandatory for the circuits of
cross-section less than 10 sq.mm.
Source of supply Installation
A TN-S system has the neutral of the source
L
of energy connected with earth at one point
Installation
Equipment only, at or as near as is reasonably practicable
N
to the source. The consumer s earthing
terminal is typically connected to the metallic
T Exposed-conductive-part
sheath or armour of the distributor s service
N-S
cable into the
Source Earth premises or to a separate protective
conductor of, for instance, an overhead
supply. Large consumers may have one or
more HV/LV transformers dedicated to their
installation and installed adjacent to or
within their premises. In such situations, the
usual form of system earthing is TN-S.

18
3. TN-C-S system
A TN-C-S system has the supply neutral conductor of a
TN-C-S system
distribution main connected with earth at source and at
L
intervals along its run. This is usually referred to as Protective
Installation
Equipment Multiple Earthing (PME). With this arrangement the
PEN N
PE distributor s neutral conductor is also used to return earth
Link
fault currents arising in the consumer s installation safely to
Additional the source. To achieve this, the distributor will provide a
Source
Earth T Source Electrode
N-C S consumer s earthing terminal which is linked to the
[combined neutral and (separate neutral (N) and incoming neutral conductor.
protective conductor (PEN) Protective conductors (PE)
in source of supply, within installation)
with PME applied]

4.TN-C system
If the N and PE neutral conductors are one and the same
TN-C System
(PEN) in the system than such a system is called a TN-C
Source of Installation
system. In this system RCD will trip in case of leakage only supply
L
through human body. So this system is most the dangerous Installation
Equipment
from the safety point of view.
PE N

T Exposed-
N-C conductive-part

Source
Earth

5. IT system
In an IT network, the distribution system has no connection
IT System
to the earth at all, or it has only a high impedance
L connection. In such systems, an insulation monitoring
Installation device is used to monitor the impedance. Only the IT system
N Equipment
guarantees risk-free continuity of supply in the presence of
an insulation fault.

IT

Consumer’s Earth

19
Comparison of earthing systems

TT IT TNS TNC TNC-S

Earth fault loop High Highest Low Low Low
impedance

Yes No Yes No After N and

RCD preferred?
PE separate
Need earth electrode Yes Yes No No No
at site ?

PE conductor cost Low Low Highest Least High

Risk of broken neutral No No No Highest High

Safety Safe Less Safe Safest Least Safe Safe

Electromagnetic Least Least Low High Low

interference

High loop
Safety risks Double fault, Overvoltage Broken PE Broken neutral Broken Neutral
impedance

Continunity of operation,
Advantages Safe and reliable Safest Cost Safety and cost
cost

Choice of earthing
Choice of earthing system for an installation depends on harmonics in the system
parameters: 4. Environment (risk of lightning strike)
1. Safety of person 5. Quality, maintenance and cost
2. Continuity of supply 6. Network size
3. Sensitivity of the equipment to the presence of 7. Requirement of skilled operator and designer

Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB)

An MCB is an automatically operated electrical switch
designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage
caused by overload and short circuit. Its basic function is to
detect a fault condition and, by interrupting continuity, to
immediately discontinue electrical flow. Unlike a fuse,
which operates once and then has to be replaced, a circuit
breaker can be reset (manually) to resume normal
operation. 16A Short duration capacity of cable
(1.45 times FL)
Selecting an MCB: In order to achieve perfect overload
protection, the normal current of the MCB (Im) should not
11A Continuous current rating of Cable
be less than the design current of the circuit (Ic) and that (Im)
should not exceed the current-carrying capacity of the 8.7A Tripping current of MCB
conductors (Iw), and that the current causing effective
6A Continuous current rating of MCB
operation of the protective device Im does not exceed 1.45
times the current-carrying capacity of the conductor Ic, 4A Maximum design current in circuit
expressed as; Ic < Im < Iw e.g. If for a load of 800w, 220V;
load current is 4A then wire capacity should be minimum 0

11A (i.e. 1 sq mm) and MCB rating should be 6A.

20
Application of Different Types of Curves

Type Setting Application

B 3-5 In Generator-sensitive loads very long circuit runs

Example: Incandescent lights, Heater, Geyser

C 5-10 In General, light and power

Example: Flourescent lights, Small motors, Fans, Refrigerators Window / Split ACs

D 10-20 In Motors & transformers sodium lighting highly inductive loads

Example: Water lifting pumps, UPS, Medium size motors

Temperature Derating

As per IS/IEC 60898, thermal calibration of an MCB is to be done at 30°C and if the manufacturer decides to do it at any
other temperatures, the data has to be furnished on the breaker. When used at ambient temperatures exceeding the
calibrated temperatures, MCBs tend to trip faster while carrying the rated current. This calls for de-rating the MCBs when
used in ambiences, with temperatures higher than the design ambient temperature. At temperature higher than 30°C, the
MCB require progressively less time to trip on the same level of overload.

Temperature Correction of EXORA MCBs :

In(A) 30°C 40°C 50°C

6 6 5.4 4.8

10 10 9 8

16 16 14.4 12.8

20 20 18 16

25 25 22.5 20

32 32 28.8 25.6

40 40 36 32

50 50 45 40

63 63 56.7 50.4

21
Current-limiting and Energy-limiting class Let thru energy is the amount of fault energy which passes
through a circuit breaker to downstream network
Current limitation is the technique used in circuit breakers
measured from the instant fault occurs in a system to the
to limit the short circuit current to reach its prospective
instant the circuit breaker clears the fault.
value.
IEC classify MCBs into three classes depending upon their
Current limitation can be achieved by following methods:
"Quality of current limiting" and let thru energy of a circuit
1. By Limiting the Fault breaker on short circuit class.

By series resistors: using a series resistor to limit current Class 1 No Limitation

on short circuit, but this wastes a lot of energy in
limiting resistors. Class 2 370 kA²S

By series inductors coil lot of heat loss combined with Class 3 110 kA²S
bulky size of inductor coils.
As per EN-60898-1 -2003, for 10kA C-curve MCB
(Greater than 16A up to and including 32A)
2. By Current Limiting Technology
A current limiting circuit breaker cuts off the fault
Ip.14.1 kA peak
current much before it attains its peak value and hence
greatly reduces the thermodynamic stresses on an electrical
network.

On a 50 Hz electrical network, fault current takes

Cut-off at5.0 kA
5 msec to reach its prospective peak value.

A current limiting circuit breaker interrupts the fault current Let thru energy
within 5 msec and clears the fault within 10 msec to limit
the fault current and minimize let thru energy for maximum
3-5 ms 10 ms
protection of electrical network.

MCB
Some Important Definitions and Symbols the temperature rise test

(National and International Standards) t = trip delay of residual current devices

Ue = rated service voltage

Fault Current Trip time
Ui = rated insulation voltage (>Uemax)
1.13 In Greater than 1 hour
Uimp = rated impulse withstand

Icm = rated short circuit making capacity 1.45 In Less than 1 hour
Icn = rated short circuit capacity
2.55 In 1 to 120 seconds
Ics = rated service short circuit breaking capacity

I n = rated residual operating current (often called

residual sensitivity)

In = rated current = maximum value of current used for

22
The inverse time delay characteristics of all MCBs complying with IEC 60898 must operate within these limits.

The difference between three types of characteristic curve B, C and D concer ns only the magnetic instantaneous trip
which provides short circuit protection.

Curve type Breaker trip limits

Type B 3 to 5 times In
Type C 5 to 10 times In
Type D 10 to 20 times In

MCB Characteristic Curves

I-T characteristics B-Type I-T characteristics C-Type
3600 3600

Time - Current Characteristics Time - Current Characteristics

1000 1000
Ref. Calibration Temp.: 30 C O
Ref. Calibration Temp.: 30 C
O

Ref. Standard:IS/IEC 60898 Ref. Standard:IS/IEC 60898

100 100
Tripping Time T (s)

Tripping Time T (s)

10 10

1 1

0.1 0.1

0.01 0.01
1 1.13 1.45 2 3 5 10 20 1 1.13 1.45 2 3 4 5 10 20
Multiple of Rated Current In (A) Multiple of Rated Current In (A)

I-T characteristics D-Type

3600
Time - Current Characteristics
1000
Ref. Calibration Temp.: 30 C O

Ref. Standard:IS/IEC 60898

100
Tripping Time T (s)

10

0.1

0.01
1 1.13 1.45 2 3 4 5 10 20
Multiple of Rated Current In (A)

Watt Loss
Current (A) In 6 10 16 20 25 32 40 50 63
Loss (Watt) 1.36 1.8 1.8 2.49 3.52 3.4 3.75 5.17 5.93
23
RCCB
Danger of Human Electrocution

Current I v/s Flow Time

mS 10000
A B C1 C2 C3
5000

2000

1000

500
1 2 3 4
200

100

50

20

10
0.1 0.2 0.5 1 2 5 10 20 50 100 200 500 1000 2000 5000 10000 mA

Current Flowing Through The Body Is

1 Unperceived 3 Reversible effects : muscular contraction

2 Perceived 4 Possible irreversible effects

C1= 5% risk C3>50% risk

Duration of current flow in the body as a function of current strength: In this graph, the effect
of AC current (15 to 100 Hz) has been divide into four zones (as per IEC60479-1).

The gravity of an electric shock depends on Importance of RCCB

the following factors: The fault current overloads and short circuits can be
Current value detected by circuit breakers like MCBs, MCCBs, HRC Fuses,
etc. But circuit breakers do not detect leakage currents
Time it remains in the human body which are dangerous for humans and livestock. If not
Path it takes through the human body detected, these leakages can lead to fire hazards. We need
a solution that detects such leakage currents and
Impedance of the human body disconnects the circuits from the power supply. Here comes
When a current in excess of 30 mA flows through part of the solution in the form of RCCB (Residual Current Circuit
the human body, the person is in danger if this current is Breaker) also known as ELCB (Earth Leakage Circuit
not interrupted in a relatively short time. Breaker) which provides protection against direct and
indirect contact of personnel or livestock and against fires.

24
Critical Current Thresholds conductor. If these do not sum to zero, there is a
leakage of current to somewhere else (to
According to the medical study, effect of various earth/ground, or to another circuit), and the
current levels on human bodies is as shown device will open its contacts.
below.
RCCBs have different current sensitivities which
can be used for various applications.
mA

1A Cardiac arrest Sensitivities Application

Irreversible cardiac For protection against direct

75 mA fibrillation
30mA
contacts
30 mA Breathing arrest
100mA For protection against
indirect contact (where
Muscular contraction
10mA generally leakage is high)

0.5 mA For protection against

Tingling 300mA
industrial installations, fire,
etc.

Working Principle of RCCB To ensure safety, the RCCB switches turn off the protected
circuit immediately. If there is an insulation fault causing a
short-circuit to an exposed part (frame etc.) of machinery
and equipment (protection against indirect contact), the
L N
maximum permissible touch voltage U must occur at a
residual current greater than or equal to the rated residual
operating current I that triggers the In RCCB. This condition
is met by earthing the exposed part with a sufficiently low
1 resistance to earth RE.
Earth Resistance (RE) < Touch Voltage (U)

Rated Residual Operating Current ( I )

2
3 Precaution for Installations
4
Wiring should be done as per the wiring diagram. by a
trained and qualified electrician.

All wiring necessary for operation shall be passed

through the RCCB.
1 Electromagnet
2 Current transformer secondary winding The neutral conductor must be insulated against earth
3 Transformer core to the same extent as the live conductors.
4 Test switch L live conductor N neutral conductor
All equipment used must be properly earthed.

To ensure correct functioning, care must be taken that

the neutral conductor on the load side of the RCCB must
RCCBs operate by measuring the current balance not be connected to earth, otherwise nuisance tripping
between two conductors using a differential may occur or tripping may be impaired.
current transformer. This measures the difference Suitable device either MCB or HRC fuses shall be used
between the current flowing out of the live for short circuit and overload protection of the circuit
conductor and that returning through the neutral under installation.
25
Fault finding when RCCB trips
External light
Switch OFF all the switches/MCB connected in the circuit
downstream the RCCB. Switch ON RCCB and switch ON the
Switches one by one. You will find that during switching
ON of a particular appliance/switch RCCB trips again and
again which shows that this is the faulty circuit/appliance.
Isolate the faulty circuit, rectify the fault and switch ON the
Crossed neutral
RCCB. Split load board

P
Faults existing downstream of the RCD
N
Indirect contact. An RCD may be used to provide
protection against electric shock due to indirect
contact in an installation.
Main Switch 30 mA RCD
Direct contact. An RCD may be used to provide
supplementary protection against direct contact.
In the above diagram, the external lighting circuit has been
Incorrect application. An RCD must be correctly incorrectly connected. The MCB supplying the circuit is
selected and erected for the particular application. For connected to the non-RCD-protected side of the split load
example, protecting an entire installation using a single board but the neutral conductor for the circuit has been
high sensitivity RCD can, in many cases, lead to inadvertently connected downstream of the RCD.
unwanted tripping, particularly in industrial
As soon as the outside light is energized, the RCD will see a
environments where inductive loads will cause greater
large imbalance and will operate. The neutral must be taken
transient overvoltages and where longer cable runs will
from the same final circuit, never from another circuit, as
result in larger values of capacitance to earth.
has happened in this example. Circuits must be kept
No discrimination between series connected RCDs. separate; in this example a borrowed neutral situation
A fault downstream of two series-connected RCDs may exists presenting a potential shock risk for an electrician
result in operation of either device. A fault downstream attempting to troubleshoot the problem.
of the second device will be seen by both devices.
Neutral-to-Earth fault. A neutral-to earth fault or
Inconvenience may result if the upstream device
in advertent connection of neutral to earth downstream
operates. Discrimination, where required, must be
of an RCD will probably result in the device operating as
ensured by means such as selecting a time delayed
part of the neutral current will flow in the circuit
device for the upstream device.
protective conductor resulting in the RCD seeing an
Loose connections. A loose connection downstream imbalance (refer fig below). A neutral-to-earth fault
of an RCD may cause it to operate due to transient can be caused by:
voltages or capacitive effects. Every connection must be
A neutral conductor touching an earthed mounting box
properly constructed of durable electrical continuity and
or earthed metal conduit
adequate mechanical strength correctly selected
enclosed and accessible, where required. Reversed neutral and earth connections at an accessory
or item of current-using equipment
Crossed neutral on split load distribution board or
consumer unit. Withdrawal of a fuse or switching off a circuit-breaker in
a final circuit resulting in an RCD tripping as the neutral
is normally not interrupted.

Nails and picture hooks, screws and power drills: A

floorboard nail driven between the neutral and earth
conductors creates a neutral to earth fault which is likely
to cause an upstream RCD to trip. The fault can be
located by insulation testing. The damaged cable must
be replaced and either relocated to avoid further
damage or protected.

26
 Mineral insulated cables. Mineral insulated cables can mains borne interference. Motors such as lift motors,
absorb moisture if not correctly terminated resulting in control gear for discharge lighting and transformer inrush
reduced insulation which may cause an RCD to trip as a currents can cause unwanted RCD operation. Although
certain amount of outgoing phase current will return significant transients can arise within an installation they
through the MI cable sheath causing the RCD to detect would normally only occur under fault conditions. They
an imbalance. Insulation testing should identify the might, however, travel to other installations where they
problem. could cause unwanted tripping of a RCD.

Moisture ingress can cause reduced insulation resulting Overhead lines: Unwanted tripping may occur more
in RCD operation. Reduced insulation can result from frequently in an installation supplied by overhead lines
wet plaster, condensation or water entry into compared to one supplied by an underground concentric
accessories. Similarly, some appliances may exhibit cable. An underground concentric cable is, by its very
reduced insulation causing RCD operation. Certain nature, a good attenuator of transient overvoltages.
installed services, such as heating elements in cookers Spurious tripping may be avoided by installing a filter
can have reduced insulation when cold; the insulation upstream of the RCD at the origin of the installation.
increasing when hot. The manufacturer s instructions
should be consulted. Domestic Installation (RCCBs)
Double-pole switching. Double pole switching within RCCBs can be installed mainly in two ways:
the fixed wiring is known to trip an RCD when switching
1.Whole house protection: In this type of protection the
off or on due to capacitive effects. Changing over from
RCCBs serve as the main switch. This type of protection is
double pole to single pole switching can overcome the
very popular but has a major disadvantage that all the
problem, where such replacement is permissible and
circuits are disconnected in the event of a fault.
safe.
2.Selective protection: This type of protection can be
divided into two types.

RCD detects A. Split busbar consumer unit: In this case all circuits
Imbalance and Operates are fed through an overall isolator and selected
circuits additionally through RCCBs. The examples of
P
selected circuits are socket outlets, garage circuits,
etc. So this reduces the inconvenience in the event of
fault.
N B. Per Phase Isolation (PPI): A RCCB is used as sub-
incomer for each individual phase. In case of a fault,
Neutral-earth
Some Current Returns Through only faulty phase will be disconnected and remaining
fault
E Circuit Protective Conductor phases will not be affected.

RCCB should be protected against overload and short-

circuit by using backup MCB or Fuse as per table
below:
Faults Upstream of the RCD
RCCB Rating (A) L&T MCB (A) gG L&T Fuse (A)
A loose connection upstream of the RCD such as at the
main switch or at the busbar connections can cause the
25 25 25
device to operate.

Mains-borne disturbances such as spikes, voltage surges 40 40 40

and dips, a lightning strike and the operation of distribution
network switchgear and protective devices combined with
63 63 63
capacitance to earth within the installation can cause
unwanted RCD operation. A filter may be of assistance.
100 100 100
Site machinery or plant and installed services can cause

27
SPDs
a. IEC Standards
As per international standards, SPDs are classified as SPDs offer a lower surge capacity and provide a lower clamp
lightning current arresters (Class I), surge protection devices level than the primary suppressor. These SPDs also suppress
(Class II) or device protection (Class III). Each Class is defined any surge currents generated by induced lightning currents
by performance testing methods for surge current handling / partial lightning and operational switching action in the
capability. electrical network. These SPDs are tested with a 8/20s

Type 1 / Class I SPDs (Lightning Arresters) are mainly medium-energy or low-energy surge currents, and typically

installed in the electrical entry panel or the Main offer a VPL of around 1.5 kV. It is important to note that this

Distribution Panel. This is the first-stage protection in the voltage level can still potentially allow damage to sensitive

electrical network, and the surge arrester is designed to equipment. It is also interesting to note that some SPDs

divert lightning energy caused by over-voltage comparable offer combined Type 1 and 2 protection of loads against

to that of a direct lightning strike to the power lines or both direct and indirect lightning strokes.

equipment. These protectors must be designed to survive

the 10/350 s wave form. In addition, Class I lightning
arresters are tested with 8/20 s current impulses for
nominal discharge current ratings..

It must be understood that Class I SPDs are only for

insulation breakdown protection, e.g.: protecting the
wires, insulation/dielectrics, and other components of the
electrical distribution system. These SPDs are not intended
to prevent damage to electronics and sensitive equipment.
Most SPD manufacturers use discharge-gap technology to
meet the challenging test requirements of surviving
multiple 10/350s wave shape hits without damage or
Type 3 / Class III SPDs must be installed as a supplement to
degradation. The discharge gap handles high surge
Type 2 SPD and be located in the immediate vicinity of
currents of 100kA and does not suffer from leakage current
sensitive loads. Some critical applications with sensitive
when not conducting. One drawback is that the relatively
equipment include: Medical Imaging, Cloud Servers, and
slow response time (~100 s typically) results in a voltage
Video Surveillance. The function of a Class 3 device is
level protection (VPL) of 1.5 - 2 kV. The minimum discharge
protection of sensitive electronic equipment and thus the
capability (Iimp) of a Class I SPD is 25kA.
voltage protection level should be < 600 V. These devices
Type 2 / Class II SPDs are mainly installed in secondary are tested similar to the Class II SPDs (1.2/50 s and 8/20 s
distribution panels as the second stage protection. The waveforms) but have lower discharge current capability.
Class II SPD working with the first stage Class I arrester Often, Type 2 products are declared as Type 3. It is important
provides a better level of protection for equipment. These to check that these SPDs offer voltage levels of 600 V.

28
Installation and Wiring
1 Install only in a restricted access power distribution cabinet that requires a key or tool to open.

2 The SPD should only be installed by a licensed electrician.

3 All local and national electric codes must be observed.

4 Keep wires as short as possible (maximum length 0.5 m) and free of sharp bends.

5 Before installation, shut off power to prevent accidental electrical shock or injury.

6 The ground conductor should be insulated stranded copper greater than 10 mm2 (#6 AWG) diameter.
The power conductors should be copper stranded insulated gr eater than 6 mm2 (#10 AWG) diameter.

Usage and Maintenance

1 The SPD should be scheduled for periodic inspection to ensure SPD is operational, each module is securely
inserted in base and all wire connections are tight.

SPD selection

Coordination Stage Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3

Surge Threat Lightning Lightning & Inductive Inductive

IEC 61643-1 Class I test Class II test (8/20 s) Class III test

EN/IEC 61643-11 Type 1 : (10/350 s) Type 2 : (8/20 s) Type 3 : (8/20 s)

IEC Test Waveform 10/350 s 8/20 s 1.2/50 s + 8/20 s

IEEE C62.41 Location C (8/20 s) Location A (8/20 s)

Location B (8/20 s)

UL 1449 Type 1 (8/20 s) Type 3 (8/20 s)

Type 2 (8/20 s)

IEEE Test Waveform

8/20 s 8/20 s 1.2/50 s + 8/20 s

29
 CBMC/031018

Larsen & Toubro Limited, Electrical Standard Products

Powai Campus, Mumbai 400 072
SP 50586 R5

Customer Interaction Center (CIC)

BSNL / MTNL (toll free) : 1800 233 5858 Reliance (toll free) : 1800 200 5858
Tel : 022 6774 5858 E-mail : [email protected] / Website www.Lntebg.com

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