What is the Difference Between MCB and MCCB?

MCB and MCCB are two of the most popular circuit breakers. But how do they differ from each other? Which one is applicable for home use? Which is more suited for industrial applications?

This blog is made to answer the above questions. While both serve to protect electrical circuits, they differ significantly in terms of their design, functionality, and applications.

We will then compare the differences between MCCBs and MCBs in this particular blog post and enable you to select the best one for your needs.

What is an MCB?

MCB is a Miniature Circuit Breaker which could protect an electric Circuit from short circuits and overloads. These small devices typically accept current ratings below 100 amperes and are utilized in residences and commercial settings. Their interrupting capacity (maximum current they can cut off safely) ranges from 10,000 to 18,000 amps.

MCB Functionalities

●Protection against overloads: Overloads happen when current flows through a circuit at more than its nominal capacity. MCBs detect and interrupt such overloads thereby preventing wire insulation damage and fire danger.
●Protection against short circuits: Short circuits take place when current surges through unintended paths that interrupt the normal flow of current. MCBs quickly disconnect the circuit to stay away from electrical fires and severe damage.

What is an MCCB?

MCCB is a Molded Case circuit Breaker that is designed to reduce overloads, short circuits and ground faults on electric circuits. These rugged devices generally accept current values from ten to 2,000 amperes and are utilized in commercial and industrial uses. Their interrupting capability is between 10,000 and 200,000 amperes and they can deal with weighty electric loads.

Functions of MCCB

●Protection against overloads: Like MCBs, MCCBs guard against overloads, stopping excessive current flow and harm to electrical components.
●Protection against short circuits: MCCBs detect and interrupt short circuits preventing electrical fires and equipment damage.
●Protection against ground faults: Ground faults are electrical circuits which contact the ground and cause a shock hazard. MCCBs protect the circuit from ground faults by disconnecting it.

Guidelines for Selecting MCCBs

●Evaluate the current rating and interrupting capacity demands of the industrial application.
●Consider the protection requirements against overloads, short circuits, and ground faults.
●Assess the installation environment, ensuring compatibility with industrial settings.

MCB vs MCCB

Below are the common differences that exist between an MCB and MCCB:

Definition and Purpose

• Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): An MCB is a compact device designed to protect low-voltage electrical circuits from overloads and short circuits. It automatically disconnects the circuit as it detects conditions that may lead to damage. MCBs are typically used in residential and light commercial electrical panels.
• Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): In contrast, an MCCB is a robust and versatile device used for medium voltage applications. Housed in a molded case, the MCCB protects against overloads, short circuits, and other electrical faults. MCCBs are normally utilized in industrial and commercial environments.

Voltage and Current Ratings

• Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): This device is designed for circuits with current ratings up to 100 amps. It may also cater to voltages up to 240V to 415V.
• Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): The circuit breaker is suited for circuits with current ratings ranging from 100 amps up to 2500 amps. MCCBs can accommodate voltages that can exceed 1000V.

Trip Mechanism

• MCB: The MCB utilizes bimetallic strips and electromagnets to detect overloads and short circuits. This trip setting is generally fixed. Thus, providing basic protection without the need for user adjustments.
• MCCB: On the other hand, an MCCB features a combination of thermal and magnetic trip mechanisms. The thermal trip handles overload protection while the magnetic one responds to short circuits.

Application and Usage

• MCB Applications: MCBs are commonly used in residential buildings, small commercial setups, and light industrial applications. They are ideal for circuits with moderate load requirements where basic protection is sufficient.
• MCCB Applications: MCCBs are employed in more demanding environments such as industrial plants, large commercial buildings, and critical infrastructure. They offer enhanced protection and flexibility, making them suitable for high-power applications and complex electrical systems.

Size, Design, and Cost

• Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB): The MCB comes with a generally compact and lightweight design. It is easy to install. MCB’s cost is relatively lower due to its simpler design and lower current ratings.
• Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB): An MCCB is characterized by its larger and heavier design. This size feature is designed to handle higher currents and provide robust protection. The cost is higher, reflecting its advanced features and capacity to manage more significant electrical loads.

iALLWay’s Premium Circuit Protection: The iALM1 MCCB

For those seeking top-tier circuit protection, iALLWay sells a collection of reliable MCCBs. One of them is the iALM1 MCCB. This product is a premier choice as shown below:

• Premium Circuit Protection: The iALM1 MCCB offers superior defense against electrical faults with a compact design tailored for industrial applications.
• Built-In Safety Features: The iALM1 is equipped with advanced safety features that provide comprehensive protection for your electrical systems. Its design ensures reliable performance, even in demanding environments.
• Flexible Installation: With the iALM1, installation is versatile and space-efficient. Mounting it vertically and horizontally is entirely up to your preferences.