Residual-current device
Residual-current device
A residual-current device (RCD), also known as a residual-current circuit breaker (RCCB), is an electrical safety device that quickly breaks an electrical circuit to prevent serious harm from an ongoing electric shock. RCDs are designed to protect against the risks of electrocution and fire caused by earth faults.
Function[edit | edit source]
RCDs work by detecting an imbalance between the live and neutral conductors. Under normal circumstances, the current flowing through the live conductor should be equal to the current returning through the neutral conductor. If there is a difference, it indicates that some of the current is flowing through an unintended path, such as through a person or to the ground. When this imbalance exceeds a predetermined threshold, the RCD disconnects the circuit.
Types[edit | edit source]
There are several types of RCDs, including:
- Fixed RCDs: Installed in the consumer unit (fuse box) and protect individual or groups of circuits.
- Socket-outlet RCDs: Built into a standard socket-outlet to protect the person using electrical equipment plugged into the socket.
- Portable RCDs: Plugged into any standard socket-outlet and then the electrical equipment is plugged into the RCD.
Applications[edit | edit source]
RCDs are used in various applications, including:
Standards and Regulations[edit | edit source]
RCDs must comply with specific standards and regulations, which vary by country. In many regions, the installation of RCDs is mandatory in certain situations, such as in bathrooms and outdoor electrical installations.
Advantages[edit | edit source]
- Provides protection against electric shock.
- Reduces the risk of electrical fires.
- Enhances overall electrical safety.
Limitations[edit | edit source]
- Does not protect against all types of electrical faults, such as short circuits or overloads.
- Requires regular testing to ensure proper functionality.
Maintenance[edit | edit source]
Regular testing of RCDs is essential to ensure they are functioning correctly. This can typically be done by pressing the "test" button on the device, which should cause it to trip.
See also[edit | edit source]
- Circuit breaker
- Earth leakage circuit breaker
- Ground fault circuit interrupter
- Electrical wiring
- Electrical safety
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Circuit breaker
- Earth leakage circuit breaker
- Ground fault circuit interrupter
- Electrical wiring
- Electrical safety
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