What is a Circuit Breaker?
A circuit breaker is a device found in most modern homes. All the wiring in the house runs through a central circuit breaker panel. It is the basic black switch at the center of the gray electric panel that acts as a protective device to guard against excessive current. Its main function is to cut the power when there is too much electric current flowing through the wiring. It protects the wiring that runs from the circuit breaker to various switches or outlets.
How does a circuit breaker work?
Electricity generates friction as it flows through a wire, which in turn generates heat. This heat can sometimes melt the insulation on the wires and if the wires then cross, it generates sparks that may cause fire. All home appliances and cords are designed to keep current at a relatively low level for safety purposes. For example, an extension cord may be rated to withstand 10 amps. Anything in excess of 10 amps may cause the wire to melt. A typical breaker has a bi metallic strip or an electro magnet that detects the rise in the heat. The strip is usually made of two different metals that expand at different rates. As the heat in the wires rise, it causes the metals in the strip to expand at different rates making it bend. This bending causes the breaker to switch off.
How is a circuit breaker used?
The switch of the circuit breaker can also be used manually if necessary. It has four positions – Off, On, tripped, and reset. While the On and Off positions are marked, the tripped position is usually indicated by a red mark on the breaker. In some cases a reset position is not explicitly marked but it involves moving the switch in the off direction until a click is heard. Once it is reset, the breaker can be turned on again. But before the breaker is reset it is essential that the source of the problem is found and rectified. Sophisticated circuit breakers now use electronic components that protect people from electric shocks rather than simply protecting the wiring.
