The main differences between an Air Circuit Breaker (ACB) and a Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB) are as follows:
Utilization Category: ACBs are category B devices, while MCCBs are category A devices.
Application: ACBs are typically used in high current applications such as power transmission lines and power distribution stations, while MCCBs are commonly used at the load side for switching and protection.
Voltage Rating: ACBs are suitable for voltages of up to 1140 volts, including power distribution lines and systems, whereas MCCBs are built for use in systems with voltages of 120V, 240V, and 380V up to 660V.
Tripping Thresholds: The tripping thresholds can be adjusted easily in the MCCB, making it favorable in different circuits over other circuit breakers. The tripping thresholds can also be adjusted in the ACB, but it is a bit more complex.
Operation: There is a thermal-magnetic operation in the MCCBs. In the previous MCCBs, there was only one operation which was generally magnetic. The ACB also has a thermal-magnetic operation.
In summary, ACBs are generally used in high current applications and for voltages up to 1140 volts, while MCCBs are commonly used at the load side for switching and protection and for systems with voltages of 120V, 240V, and 380V up to 660V.