How to distinguish a differential circuit breaker from an RCD? The principle of operation of the RCD and the need for installation Iek vd1 63 connection diagram

How to distinguish a differential circuit breaker from an RCD? The principle of operation of the RCD and the need for installation Iek vd1 63 connection diagram

    Complain

In terms of efficiency, there is no real alternative to a residual current device (RCD) yet. Moreover, in the future the RCD will remain the main electrical protection device.

Recently, a significant number of new types of RCDs have appeared, with different technical characteristics. Let's consider the main parameters by which a consumer can choose the necessary modification of the RCD, using the example of a differential switch VD1-63 brand IEK.

RCD VD 1-63 type AS

The key task of the RCD VD 1-63 type AC is to ensure reliable protection of a person from electric shock when accidentally touching parts of electrical installations that are under voltage and to prevent fires that occur as a result of prolonged flow of damage current when overcurrent protection devices do not operate.

VD 1-63 type AC is controlled by alternating differential current, does not have built-in overcurrent protection, and is functionally independent of the mains voltage.

The choice of VD 1-63 type AC IEK® is determined by the following properties:

  • the absence of electronic components in the electromechanical circuit ensures increased reliability: the RCD can operate effectively without the presence of auxiliary power sources, but is capable of being triggered by differential current (remains operational even in the event of a break in the neutral conductor);
  • rated conditional differential short-circuit current I Dc, A: 3’000
  • breadth of assortment:
    • Rated current I n , A: 16, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100
    • Rated residual current I Dn, mA: 10, 30, 100, 300
  • the presence of silver-containing solders on the contacts increases wear resistance: the number of guaranteed inclusions is at least 10 thousand;
  • maximum cross-section of connected wires, mm 2 - 35;
  • comfortable price: with high quality workmanship and operational reliability comparable to European analogues, the price of the IEK® RCD remains almost half as low.

RCD VD 1-63 type A

In electrical installations where devices with a switching power supply are used, pulsating leakage current may occur. Such devices can be power tools and equipment that use thyristor converters, as well as personal computers, televisions, washing machines, chargers, etc.

To ensure protection during the operation of this type of equipment, it is necessary to use an RCD that responds not only to sinusoidal alternating differential current, but also to pulsating direct current. Such a device is VD 1-63 type A IEK®.

To summarize, it can be noted that VD 1-63 type A has all of the above properties of VD 1-63 type AC, such as:

  • operating range: from -25°С to +40°С;
  • comfortable price.

Also, VD 1-63 type A has a number of differences relative to type AC:

  • rated conditional differential short-circuit current I Dc, A: 4’500
  • range:
    • Rated current I n, A: 16, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63;
    • Rated residual current I Dn, mA: 10, 30, 100
  • operating characteristic in the presence of differential current - A;
  • maximum cross-section of connected wires, mm 2 - 50;

But the main advantage of the VD 1-63 type A is that the type A differential switch is a unique device of its kind, since Most manufacturers do not have similar analogues in their range.

RCD VD 1-63 S selective

The choice of a selective RCD is determined by the provisions of the PUE (7th edition, clause 7.1.73): “When installing an RCD, selectivity requirements must be consistently met. With two- and multi-stage circuits, the RCD located closer to the power source must have a setting and response time that is at least 3 times greater than that of the RCD located closer to the consumer.” If we consider an example of the occurrence of an instantaneous leak of significant magnitude (for example, a leak on the floor above, which caused the flow of current to the “ground” from the neutral conductor), then for a two-stage protection circuit there is no certainty: which of the RCDs will trip first. And most likely they will work simultaneously. What is the solution? Only when using selective RCD.

Unlike VD 1-63 types AC and A, which switch off immediately after a differential current leak occurs, VD 1-63 S selective IEK® provides a certain response delay: the maximum non-switching time is 40 ms.

The purpose of the response delay is to eliminate false alarms, as well as to prevent blackouts in operable areas of the electrical installation. When a residual current occurs, the 1-63 S IEK® selective high pressure valve creates a time delay to ensure that the tripping conditions are maintained. The RCD located at the emergency consumer is triggered and disconnects the load, while power supply to the operational areas continues through the closed contacts of the selective RCD VD 1-63 S. All that remains is to eliminate the cause of the emergency. In this case, the selectivity requirements are fully met.

As a result, we can note the following parameters of the VD1-63S, common with types AC and A:

  • absence of electronic components in the electromechanical circuit;
  • operating characteristic in the presence of differential current - AC;
  • the presence of silver-containing solders on the contacts;
  • operating range: from -25°С to +40°С;
  • comfortable price.

At the same time, the distinctive characteristics of VD1-63S selective are:

  • Shutdown time at rated differential current, ms: 130 ÷ 500;
  • Rated conditional differential short-circuit current I Dc, A: 6’000
  • Range :
    • Rated current I n, A: 16, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 80;
    • Rated differential breaking current I Dn, mA: 100, 300;
  • Maximum cross-section of connected wires, mm 2 - 50.

Please note that the use of VD1-63S/type A/type AC without the presence of a serial protection device (circuit breaker or fuses) in the electrical installation circuit is prohibited. It should also be borne in mind that selective VD1-63S is not intended for protection against indirect contact.

Based on materials from the Group of CompaniesIEK

Information about the company

IEK GROUP is one of the leading Russian suppliers and manufacturers of lighting and electrical equipment under the IEK® brand, ONI® industrial automation equipment and ITK® products for IT technologies. The company offers the widest range of equipment for the formation of integrated solutions in the field of construction, housing and communal services, transport, infrastructure, industry, energy and telecommunications. Possessing a modern research and production base, the company primarily invests in the development of production in Russia and strives to maximize its own production potential, contributing to the development of the electrical industry as a whole. IEK® products twice, in 2014 and 2016, became the laureate of the people's trust rating Brand No. 1 in Russia in the Electrical Engineering category. This is confirmation of successful import substitution and great consumer confidence, as well as recognition of the company as a Russian manufacturer. Continuous launch of new products is the hallmark of IEK GROUP. Now the company has about 10 thousand items of products. IEK GROUP offers not just individual products, but comprehensive solutions with which you can organize energy supply for any facility in any industry. The company creates products that meet all international standards. At the same time, IEK® products are maximally adapted to the requirements of the domestic market and meet the expectations of Russian consumers.

×

Any leakage is undesirable. In the normal operating mode of any electrical system, current should flow only through electrical circuits relative to phases and zero (figuratively speaking). The resulting current relative to the ground will be this leakage. It can occur as a result of a breakdown on the body, which is initially grounded, when a person accidentally touches current-carrying parts (the leakage current will pass through the body of this person), obsolescence of electrical wiring, etc.

The best option for connecting an RCD (residual current device) would be maximum proximity to the power input. Since the distance between the electrical network and the electric meter is subject to strict control by electric power organizations, it is still more correct to install an RCD immediately after the meter. This ensures complete protection against all kinds of earth leaks throughout the entire circuit.

The disadvantage of connecting the RCD in this way will be the de-energization of the entire electrified zone that passes through this protection. If such a phenomenon is critically undesirable, you will have to install either several RCDs or install only for that section (for that circuit) that is most significant and important from the point of view of electrical safety (although electrical safety is necessary everywhere).

The figure shows RCD connection diagram, which is most often used in practice. On the right side is a general diagram of the internal structure of this protection. And so, an RCD is a residual current device or, as it is also called, “differential protection”. Its main task is to automatically turn off the power supply when a leakage current to the ground occurs.

Now as for the RCD itself. The basic principle of operation of a residual current device is to monitor the difference in current values ​​between the neutral and phase wires. During the nominal operation of any device and electrical equipment, this difference cannot exist (that is, how much current passes through the phase wire, the same amount will pass through the neutral wire). Let's say the electrical wiring runs in a damp room and there is insulation damage (cracks). Moisture got through the crack onto the current-carrying wire, thereby creating a circuit between this wire and the ground. As a result, this very leakage current will be the difference to which the RCD should respond.

Next, this leakage current was taken from one of the coils of the internal transformer and transferred to a polarized relay. The signal in it will be amplified, and the RCD shutdown mechanism will be activated. Thus, until this same electrical wiring fault is found and eliminated, the protective shutdown device will be knocked out again at the next platoon.

Since any device tends to break down sometimes, the RCD will be no exception. For this case, a testing (self-test) function is provided. There is a test button on the front side of the RCD. When it is pressed, this same leakage current is simulated, which leads to automatic operation and subsequent shutdown. If you suspect a malfunction of the differential protection device, or just for a routine double-check, do not be lazy and press the test button.

It is advisable to connect the residual current device following the inscriptions on the body of the RCD itself. As shown in the figure, the device has neutral contacts, which are connected to zero, and phase contacts, which are most often designated by numbers 1 and 2 or L (although phase contacts are sometimes not designated at all).

The figure shows an RCD connection diagram for a single-phase consumer, but of course there are also three-phase RCDs. The only difference is the number of contacts. The general essence of connection and operation remains the same. We screw the neutral wire to the neutral, and, naturally, three phases to the three phase contacts.

And the last thing that can be said about RCDs is that it is advisable to install them in places where it is necessary to ensure high electrical safety. In those places where an accidental shutdown can lead to undesirable consequences, differential protection is probably better not to install. Despite the main task of the RCD to ensure electrical safety, in practice it quite often brings additional problems.

Leakage currents in worn-out electrical equipment are often encountered (example: old lamps operating in non-buildings). The RCD is very sensitive to such things. As a result, you will suffer from the constant operation of this protective device. You will have to either abandon the RCD or replace all the old electrical equipment with electrical wiring with new ones. What is cheaper and safer is up to you to decide.

A residual current device (abbreviated RCD) controlled by differential or residual current is widely used in modern connection schemes.

The operating principle of an RCD is based on comparison of flowing current values.

Let's consider where and when this device is needed.

In modern electrical circuits, RCDs are used to obtain the most effective protection for humans and animals from dangerous electric shock as a result of any insulation damage or in the presence of other electrical problems.

RCD design

Various electrical shock disconnect devices have a similar design.

Internal structure designations:

1 - body;

2 - locking connection for installation using a DIN rail;

3 - differential type;

4 - electromagnetic relay;

5 - electrical circuit release device;

6 - chambers for arc extinguishing;

7 - terminal system.

Thus, standard two-pole devices have four screw terminals per pair of poles with a neutral wire connection, marked N.

Operating principle of RCD

The front part of the case is equipped with a control lever and a test button, marked T and designed to test the functioning of the device when connected to the electrical network. Pressing the test button is accompanied by the creation of an artificial current leak with subsequent shutdown of the device.

The front panel of the device has indications of the main characteristics, represented by the rated current values ​​In and the tripping differential current indicator IΔn, as well as the rated voltage, the manufacturer's logo, the serial number and the device connection diagram.

Connection diagram

Any devices intended for protective shutdown in the electrical supply system must be connected using an electrical panel and a circuit breaker that prevents short circuits, overloads and other most dangerous problems.

There are several options for connecting the protective device, represented by the connection diagram:

  • two-pole devices to a single-phase electrical network;
  • four-pole devices to a three-phase electrical network with neutral;
  • four-pole devices to a three-phase electrical network without a neutral;
  • four-pole devices to a single-phase power supply.

RCD connection diagram

The first method belongs to the category of the most common and simple schemes without complex revolutions. In this case, the location of the neutral, or “zero,” as well as the phase is taken into account. The second option is no less popular and is similar to the first method, but the difference is represented by the use of a four-pole protective device with four incoming circuit breaker wires A, B, C and “zero”, or N. Devices of this type protect in the presence of large current leaks.

The connection diagram for a four-pole device in a three-phase network without a neutral is more in demand with a three-phase electric motor, where it is extremely necessary to disconnect from the mains in case of a small winding short circuit. This connection is based on three phases of the supply voltage in the presence of a protective, grounding housing conductor PE and a standard four-wire wire.

When connecting an RCD in a private household, the sequence involves placing an input circuit breaker, a 100-300 mA circuit breaker, and a 10-30 mA individual current consumption device.

Principle of operation

The main component of the protective device is a transformer designed to detect differential current quantities. When the differential current is exceeded, an open circuit occurs in the electrical circuit:

  • in a single-phase network the operation of the RCD is based on the use of a three-wire wire system (TN-C-S), whereby all electrical equipment is grounded in accordance with the circuit of a single-phase standard protective device;
  • in a three-phase network The main difference in the functioning of the RCD is represented by the presence of a conventional current transformer with a primary winding in the form of four wires: three phase LA, LB, LC and zero N.

Operating principle of the residual current device

The operating principle varies depending on the control method, type of installation and number of poles, according to the ability to regulate the breaking differential current, as well as according to the resistance to surge voltage conditions.

It is important to remember that the principle of operation of a three-phase protective device is similar to that of a single-phase RCD, but has slight differences that are taken into account during the installation process.

RCD operation in case of zero break

A zero break is accompanied by the supply of voltage to the neutral common wire with the appearance of a voltage of 380 V in the sockets. The result of this “skewed” effect is the failure of all connected household appliances. In this case, the RCD turns off the electrical network when touching the human body, but only if there is a grounding conductor in the form of a neutral.

Power supply in case of zero loss

When choosing an RCD, you should purchase devices whose rated current is equal to or one step higher than the rating of the circuit breaker connected in series to the electrical circuit.

Operating principles of RCD VD1-63

The differential switch of the VD1-63 brand is intended for protection against electric shock as a result of accidental contact with any live parts, for example in conditions of damaged insulation. The device turns off differential current that exceeds 300 mA.

The operating principle of VD1-63 is based on mutual compensation of magnetic fluxes under normal system operation conditions, which makes the resulting flux equal to zero.

The armature part of the differential relay is pressed to the yoke by means of a magnet, and the appearance of any differential currents exceeding the specified setting values ​​causes the appearance of a magnetic flux in the tripping winding and the subsequent separation of the armature from the yoke.

Correct operation of the release mechanism is characterized by the opening of the power contacts, due to which the load from the electrical network is disconnected through VD1-63.

Why are residual current devices installed?

In order to protect the electrical network in a private house or apartment, automatic switches or so-called fuses are used.

Such protective elements are designed to prevent fire during a short circuit, but cannot provide full protection of a person from electric shock.

Protective shutdown products of the electrical network, the work of which is aimed at completely preventing current leakage to the body of the device, contribute to the instantaneous de-energization of the entire home network when the phase current is outside the limits of the permissible sections of the conductor.

The main task of a residual current device is to protect a person from current exposure from damaged electrical devices, the housing part of which has a potential that is dangerous to the health and life of people.

Where is it installed?

Trip devices of 100 mA or higher, controlled by residual or residual current, are required in almost all electrical power systems characterized by the presence of “stray” currents.

Any device does not have perfect insulation, so natural current leakage is almost always present.

In electrical wires, natural current leakage rates directly depend on the total length of the wiring.

RCDs, which are designed for a current leakage of no more than 300 mA, are quite effective in preventing fires. For example, under conditions of prolonged current leakage equal to a level of 200-500 mA, thermal energy is released sufficient to ignite nearby materials and cause a fire. It is for this reason that the main task of devices of this type is fire protection. Devices rated at 100-500 mA provide a reserve for the main protective device, so they are installed at the input.

It is important to remember that installing a protective device rated at 30 mA in a household that is too large will most often cause false operation of the system, even with a completely natural leakage current.

Installation required

The residual current device is intended for installation in apartments and private households:
  • in the apartment: installing an RCD in standard apartment panels allows you to save people from electric shock;
  • in a private home, a protective device prevents the occurrence of a fire, which is most often the result of a malfunction in the electrical wiring due to a damaged contact or when the wire insulation is destroyed.

The device is connected in an apartment using the two most common schemes: TN-C and TN-C-S.

Most often, the connection system in an apartment or private household is represented by one common conductor that performs the role of grounding, and a working “zero” in a separate conductor that performs the task of grounding.

Is an RCD necessary?

In older residential premises, as a rule, electrical wiring is characterized by the absence of a third protective conductor with grounding. Under the conditions of such an installation scheme, the most powerful devices that have a “ground” connected to the output part of the socket are not protected at all. In this case, phase current leakage can pose a great threat to the health and life of consumers:

  • in electrical wiring operating from a three-phase network, connection to the RCD system is mandatory;
  • For lighting, a protective shutdown is installed throughout the entire circuit for emergency shutdown in the event of non-standard operation of the lamp.

Schematic diagram of ouzo connection

It makes no sense to install an RCD on an air conditioner or refrigerator, unless, of course, a separate circuit is provided or the device is connected directly, without using sockets.

Protective shutdown is most often used in electrical circuits through which water-using appliances and devices installed in rooms with high humidity levels are powered, including water heating equipment, dishwashers and washing machines, as well as underfloor heating systems.

Is an RCD necessary if there is grounding?

Before installing protective devices, you must remember that improperly performed grounding can be much more dangerous than operation. Among other things, grounding without installing an RCD or proper grounding is strictly prohibited.

A residual current device, further referred to as an RCD, is designed to protect a person from electric shock, as well as from a fire that can occur when an electric current leaks due to poor insulation or poor connection of electrical installations (EU).

The RCD should operate, that is, open the contacts, thereby completely stopping the supply of voltage to the protected line, provided:

1 Human contact with non-current-carrying parts of the power plant that are energized due to insulation breakdown.
2 Human contact with live parts of the power plant that are energized.
3 Occurrence of (differential) leakage current to the power plant housing or ground to prevent fire.

Operating principle of RCD. Scheme

Rice. 1

1 Differential current transformer
2 Trigger element
3 Actuating mechanism
4 “Test” button to check the serviceability of the RCD
I 1 – I 2 direction of current relative to load
I D – leakage current
Ф 1 – Ф 2 magnetic fluxes

Purpose of blocks.
1 Differential current transformer(used in most RCDs) measures the balance of currents between the conductors entering it.
2 Trigger element(consists, as a rule, of electromagnetic relays) serves to control (influence) the actuator.
3 Actuating mechanism Designed for emergency shutdown of an electrical circuit controlled by an RCD.
4 “Test” button to monitor the serviceability of the RCD by creating a leakage current simulation.

Operating principle of residual current device (RCD)

Electrical circuit diagram

Rice. 2

1, 2 Primary windings
3 Secondary winding

If the controlled line is in good condition, there is no specified leakage current, and the transformer is in a state of rest (equilibrium), because the currents in the oppositely connected primary windings of the transformer are equal. Due to the fact that equal magnetic fluxes going towards each other are mutually subtracted (that is, equal to zero), no electromagnetic field arises in the secondary coil, which means there is no voltage and no emf arises that can influence the relay on which the trigger mechanism is assembled (Fig. .1 ).

And as soon as a leak occurs on the protected (controlled) line equal to the RCD response value (usually from 10 to 30 mA), then the equality in the primary windings of the transformer is violated. As a result, an electromagnetic field arises in the primary and secondary coils, which forms a voltage coupling. That is, in the secondary winding a relay response voltage arises (Fig. 2), which makes up the starting element (Fig. 1), the effect of which on the actuator (Fig. 1) turns off the contact group, thus de-energizing the protected line.

Attention!

It should be remembered that the RCD requires monthly testing, which is carried out by pressing the “Test” button. In this case, the electrical circuit closes, emitting an artificial current leakage and triggering the protective shutdown device. Failure to operate will indicate a complete malfunction of the device.

According to modern requirements, all electrical installations must have or. In this case, a specified leak that occurs will automatically disable the protection.

An example of this can be seen in the diagram in Fig. 3


Rice. 3

If we imagine differential protection in the form of a simple mechanical device like a scale (Fig. 4) with a response threshold of up to 10 mA. It immediately becomes clear that when the value of 10 mA is reached on one of the scales, they will go out of balance, the contacts will open and the controlled (protected) line will be de-energized. Moreover, we note that the center of balance of the scales is precisely or, therefore it is they that must be used so that the person himself is not this center.

Attention!

You also need to understand that the RCD is an additional safety measure that responds only to differential current (leakage current) and does not respond to short circuits and line overload. Therefore, as a rule, RCDs are installed together with circuit breakers that respond to short circuits (short circuits) and line overloads for which they are designed.

Visual electrical diagram for connecting an RCD

Rice. 5

RCD. Video explanation

Selecting an electromechanical RCD

I wish you successful installation and remember electrical safety.

DIFFERENTIAL SWITCHES type VD1-63 (UZO). Manual

Passport

3421-033-18461115-2007 RE, PS

1 Purpose and scope

1.1 Automatic switches controlled by differential current, without built-in overcurrent protection, functionally independent of the network voltage for household and similar applications, type VD1-63 (UZO) of the IEK® trademark (hereinafter referred to as VD) are intended for operation in single-phase or three-phase AC electrical networks current voltage up to 400 V frequency 50 Hz

and their characteristics correspond to GOST R 51326.1 and technical specifications TU 3421 -033-18461115-2002.

1.2 VDs perform the function of detecting differential current, comparing it with the value of the differential operating current and disconnecting the protected circuit in the case when the differential current exceeds this value. VD provide:

— protection of people from electric shock through indirect contact with accessible conductive parts of electrical installations in the event of insulation damage (VD with a rated differential current of 10, 30 and 100 mA);

— protection against fires arising as a result of fire insulation of live parts of electrical appliances from differential (residual) current to ground or due to prolonged flow of damage current in the event of failure of overcurrent protection devices (VD with a rated disconnecting differential current I D n = 300 mA);

— VDs having a rated differential switching current of no more than 30 mA can be used as a means of additional protection in the event of failure of devices designed to protect against electric shock.

1.3 The main area of ​​use of VD is metering and distribution boards of residential and public buildings, temporary power supply devices for construction sites, garden houses, garages, retail facilities.

2 Main characteristics

2.1 The main characteristics of the VD are given in Table 1.

Table 1

Characteristic name Meaning
Number of poles 2 4
Rated operating voltage Ue, V 230 230, 400
Rated network frequency, Hz 50
Operating voltage range of the operational control device, V from 115 to 265 from 200 to 460
Rated current In, A 16, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100
Rated residual current I D n, mA 10, 30, 100, 300
Rated non-tripping differential current I D n o , mA 0.5 I D n
Rated maximum making and breaking capacity Inm, A 1000
Rated maximum differential making and breaking capacity I D m , A 1000
Rated conditional short circuit current not less than, A 3000
Rated conditional differential short-circuit current I nc, not less, A 3000
Characteristics of operation in the presence of differential current with a DC component, type AC
Electrical wear resistance, on-off cycles (O-O), not less 4000
Mechanical wear resistance of B-0 cycles, not less 10 000
Maximum cross-section of the wire connected to the power terminals, mm 2 50
Presence of precious metals, silver, g 0.25 (per contact)
Climatic modification and placement category according to GOST 15150 UHL14
Degree of protection according to GOST 14254 IP20
Service life, at least, years 15

2.2 The values ​​of the maximum HP shutdown time in the presence of differential current are given in Table 2.

table 2

Attention! The VD does not have built-in overcurrent protection, so it is necessary to connect in series with it a circuit breaker of the same or lower rating with type B and C overcurrent protection characteristics.

2.3 Overall and installation dimensions are shown in Figure 1.

2.4 Electrical circuit diagrams of the VD are shown in Figures 2 and 3.

2.5 The use of VD in apartment and floor switchboards in electrical installations with grounding systems TN-S, TN-C-S, TN-C is regulated in GOST R 51628.

3 Completeness

Package Included:

  • VD - 1 piece;
  • packing box - 1 pc.;
  • instruction manual and passport - 1 copy.

4 Installation and operation

4.1 Installation, connection and commissioning of the HP must be carried out only by qualified electrical personnel.

4.2 The VD is installed on a 35 mm wide mounting rail (DIN rail) in electrical panels with a degree of protection in accordance with GOST 14254 of at least IP30.

4.3 After installation and checking its correctness, apply mains voltage to the electrical installation and turn on the high-pressure motor by moving the control handle to the “I” - “ON” position, press the button

"TEST". Immediate operation of the VD (switching off the circuit protected by the device) means that the VD is operational.

4.4 If, after turning on the HP, it turns off immediately or after some time, it is necessary to determine the type of malfunction in the electrical installation in the following order:

a) cock the HP using the control handle. If the VD is cocked,

this means that there was a current leak to the ground in the electrical installation caused by an unstable or short-term insulation failure. Check the operation of the HP by pressing the “TEST” button;

b) if the air pressure is not cocked,

this means that in the electrical installation there is a defect in the insulation of any electrical receiver, electrical wiring, installation conductors of the electrical panel or the VD is faulty.

In this case, you need to do the following:

— turn off all electrical receivers and cock the HP. If the HP is cocked, this indicates the presence of an electrical receiver with damaged insulation. The malfunction is detected by connecting electrical receivers in series until the VD is triggered. The damaged electrical receiver must be disconnected. Check the operation of the HP by pressing the “TEST” button;

— if the HP continues to operate when the electrical receivers are turned off, it is necessary to call a qualified electrician to determine the nature of the damage to the electrical installation or identify the HP malfunction.

The test is carried out by pressing the “TEST” button. Immediate activation of the HP and shutdown of the protected electrical installation means that the HP is in good working order.

Latest questions:

Subscribe to updates Subscribe and receive the latest and interesting information directly to your inbox

Creating a modern indoor electrical network is a responsible undertaking associated with calculations, selection of wires and electrical installations, and installation work. At the same time, one of the main tasks remains to ensure the safety of residents and the safety of property. Do you agree?

If the protective devices are correctly selected and the connection diagram of the RCD and circuit breakers is thought out, all risks are reduced to a minimum. But how to do that? What to consider when choosing? We will answer these and many other questions in our material.

You will also be able to understand the principle of operation of an RCD and its connection options. Expert advice and installation nuances are collected in this material. In addition, the article contains videos from which you will learn about the main mistakes when connecting and see how an RCD is connected in practice.

Unlike a machine that protects the network from overloads and short circuits, the RCD is designed to instantly recognize the presence of leakage current and respond by disconnecting the network or a separate electrical line.

Since these two protective devices differ functionally, both must be present in the assembly diagram.

The principle of operation of an RCD is simple: it compares the values ​​of incoming and outgoing current and trips when a discrepancy is detected.

A diagram showing the operation of the device in the event of a phase breakdown. First, the voltage relay (RN) is activated, then the contactor (K)

Inside the body of the automatic device there is a transformer with a core and windings with uniform magnetic fluxes directed in different directions.

When a leakage current occurs, the output magnetic flux decreases, as a result of which the electric relay operates and opens the power supply. This is possible if a person touches a grounded device and electrical circuit. On average, this takes from 0.2 to 0.4 seconds. Read more about the design and principle of operation of the RCD.

There are various types of devices designed for networks with direct or alternating current. One of the important technical characteristics that must be present in the marking is the leakage current strength.

To protect the residents of the house, devices with a rating of 30 mA are chosen. Where there is an increased risk, for example, bathrooms with high humidity, children's playrooms, install a 10 mA RCD.

A higher rating, such as 100 mA or 300 mA, is intended to prevent fire, since large current leaks can cause a fire. Such devices are installed as a general incoming RCD, as well as in enterprises and large facilities.

Detailed information on choosing a suitable RCD.

The RCD (left) should not be confused with the difavtomat (right), which combines the functions of a circuit breaker and a protective shutdown device, that is, it can be triggered by both overload and leakage current

The RCBO is more compact than a bunch of protective devices and takes up less space in the electrical cabinet, but when it is triggered, it is more difficult to find the cause of the shutdown.

The installation diagram is selected in accordance with the task and the type of network - 1-phase or 3-phase. If it is necessary to protect an entire house or apartment from current leaks, an RCD is installed at the input of the power line.

Protection options for single-phase network

Manufacturers of powerful household appliances mention the need to install a set of protective devices. Often, the accompanying documentation for the washing machine, electric stove, dishwasher or indicates which devices need to be additionally installed in the network.

However, more and more often several devices are used - in separate circuits or groups. In this case, the device in conjunction with the machine(s) is mounted in the panel and connected to a specific line

Considering the number of different circuits serving sockets, switches, equipment that load the network to the maximum, we can say that there are an infinite number of RCD connection schemes. You can even install it at home.

Option #1 – general RCD for a 1-phase network.

The location of the RCD is at the entrance of the power line to the apartment (house). It is installed between a common 2-pole circuit breaker and a set of circuit breakers for servicing various power lines - lighting and socket circuits, separate branches for household appliances, etc.

Schemes for 3-phase network

In homes, industrial premises and other buildings, there may be a different option for arranging power supply.

Thus, for apartments, connecting a 3-phase network is uncharacteristic, but for equipping a private house this option is not uncommon. Here other circuits for connecting the protection device will be used.

Option #1 – general RCD for a 3-phase network + group RCDs.

For a 380 V network, a 2-pole device is not enough; a 4-pole analogue is needed: you need to connect 1 neutral conductor and 3 phase conductors.

Option #2 – general RCD for 3-phase network + meter.

This solution completely repeats the previous one, but an electricity meter is added to the circuit. Group RCDs are also included in the system for servicing individual lines.