Circuit breakers play a crucial role in protecting circuits from electrical faults such as overload and short circuits.
When used in parallel or series, series circuit breakers can handle some other complex situations
What is a series circuit breaker
In the power system, a series circuit breaker is such a structure that multiple circuit breakers are mounted in series hierarchically to achieve precise fault isolation and protection grading by coordinated action.
It is extensively used in complex circuits with demands for multi-level protection, e.g., rail transit power supply systems, industrial distribution systems, etc. It can effectively prevent cascading trips and improve power supply reliability
Core working principle of series circuit breaker
The principle of operation of a series circuit breaker is also identical to the operation of a normal circuit breaker.
As long as the system current exceeds the set value of safe current, the circuit breaker will automatically open the circuit, break the current, and prevent circuit overload, short circuit, or other possible electrical faults.
But unlike one circuit breaker, a series circuit breaker typically forms a series circuit between several circuit breakers. When current is allowed to flow through a series circuit breaker, the circuit breaker will only function sequentially under specific conditions
Detecting abnormal current ⇒⇒⇒Disconnect the circuit one by one⇒⇒⇒Gradually restore the circuit
Advantages and disadvantages of series circuit breakers
Advantage
High reliability: Series connection of multiple circuit breakers can further ensure the safety of the entire system. Multiple protection responsibilities are fulfilled by different circuit breakers, interact with each other, and possess improved accuracy to cut off fault currents.
Minimize system damage: After a fault occurs, a series circuit breaker possesses the ability to isolate the fault from spreading to the entire system, preventing equipment from burn-out or being annihilated.
Strong flexibility: can be modified to the needs of different power systems, and can be customized and configured according to actual circumstances.
Disadvantages
Higher complexity: Compared with a single circuit breaker, the installation and maintenance of a series circuit breaker are more complex and may require professional technicians for debugging and maintenance.
High cost: Due to the cooperative operation of multiple circuit breakers, the initial investment in the system is relatively high.
summarize
As a very important component of the power system, series circuit breakers play a crucial role in electrical protection. With a reasonable design and configuration, it can successfully prevent electrical system failure caused by overload or short circuits, and ensure the safety of equipment operation. Though its installation and maintenance are complex and the initial cost is high, the accurate protection and high reliability it provides are typically an essential part of power system protection.
