Hello, readers welcome to new post. Here we will discuss Difference Between Isolator and Circuit Breaker. There are different types of circuit control devices used in the electrical power system Commonly used as circuit breakers and isolators.
In this post, we will get the details about these devices and find their basic differences. So let’s get started Difference Between the Isolator and Circuit Breaker.
Difference Between Isolator and Circuit Breaker
What is Isolator
- Isolators also named as disconnectors from its name can say that it is switching and isolating components that are used to break the circuit from the main supply.
- It is an offload device that operates only when the current flow in the circuit is 0. It does not have any built-in arc system and is used during the offload states.
- These modules are used in the system to make sure that the system is ready for the removal of any component and fault.
- It is only used for circuit breaks and is mostly used in distribution and industries where different components from the system have to be removed for repairs.
- Disconnectors can operate manually and motors are used for operation and are connected to an earth switch to the ground that makes sure that any person does not get harmed during preparing the component.
- High volts isolators re used in substations to remove the devices such as circuit breaker, transformers and transmission lines.
- These devices are not used for circuit control but help to provide the safety to a system
- Disconnectors are normally operate when the current is not flowing system if the current flow then a spark occurs can cause serious problems
- So they called offload devices used after completely breaking the current flow.
- It is a mechanical device that operates as a switch
- There are different types of disconnectors are used
- Center-break disconnectors
- Double-break disconnectors
- Pantograph disconnectors Horizontal break knee disconnectors
- Vertical break disconnectors
- Coaxial disconnectors
What is Circuit Breaker
- A circuit breaker is used in the system to break the circuit to protect the system from errors.
- Performance can be mechanical and automatic due to the configuration of the structure.
- Due to the need for high accuracy in the timing of the system, the breaker is maintained to function properly.
- Its main function is to interrupt the flow of power if an error is present in the system.
- Also called the OCPD device
- Its functions are based on switching and electromagnetism phenomena.
- If it works once it can be used multiple times.
- When an employee indicates its effectiveness
- It can be used as a switch.
- Its performance is based on ambient temperature.
- It is widely used to protect the system from short circuits and overcrowding.
- Its operating time is 0.02 to 0.05 per second.
- There are different types of breakers used.
- More expensive than a fuse
- There are different types of circuit breakers used.
- Oil circuit breaker.
Air circuit breaker.
SF6 is a circuit breaker.
Vacuum circuit breaker.
Isolator vs. Circuit Breaker
Isolator
- The isolator is a disconnection switch type used for the circuit to isolate from supply.
- It is a mechanical switch type and manually operated.
- It is an off-load switching device and operates when the circuit does not have current.
- The basic function is to disconnect faulty components of the system and repair them when needed.
- Single or double earth switches are used in isolators.
- The breaking capacity of the isolator is less and not used to break load faults.
- Isolators make sure safety technicians and switchgear.
- It comes with main and moving arms.
- It has features for handling the current capacity.
- It does not need insulation and uses air as an arc-quenching medium.
- It interrupts the power supply at the time of inspection or repair.
- It has a feature for removing trap charges.
- It does not use a relay for working.
Circuit Breaker
- The circuit breaker is an electrical device that operates as a switch and is used to stop the flow of current.
- It comes with an electromechanical switch and relay system for a single unit.
- The breaker operated manually and automatically.
- The breaker is on a load device and works under power conditions.
- It does not use any earth switches.
- There can be increases in overvoltage at the time of breaker switching.
- It has a high breaker capacity and is used for breaking load faults.
- It is a low-cost device and needed a professional for operating.
- Its work is to protect the complete power system, and if a fault occurs, it works as a function of a switch to turn off supply when needed.
- It comes with main and arcing contacts.
- It has a high capacity.
- The breaker needed insulation medium and arc quenching like air, oil, vacuum, and SF6 gas.
- The breaker interrupts power flow as a result of short circuits and overload.
- The breaker has features for removing trap charges.
- Breaker uses a relay system for the detection of errors in the system.
Read also
- Introduction to GFCI and AFCI Circuit Breakers
- What to Do if Your Circuit Breaker Won’t Reset
- How Many Outlets on a 15 Amp Circuit Breaker?
- Difference Between Fuse and Circuit Breaker
- What is circuit breaker | Working Principle & Why Is It Important?
That is all about the Difference Between Isolator and Circuit Breaker. All details has been explained. If you have to know more ask in the comments. see you in next tutorial