Here’s a simple explanation of each of the terms related to circuit breakers:
- Breaking Capacity:
This is the maximum fault current that a circuit breaker can safely interrupt without getting damaged. It represents the highest level of current the breaker can handle when there's a short circuit or fault in the system. If the breaker tries to interrupt a current higher than this value, it might fail or get damaged.
- Making Capacity:
This is the highest current a circuit breaker can carry and close onto without being damaged. It refers to the ability of the breaker to handle the current when it initially closes (makes) the circuit, especially in situations where a fault might exist or the circuit is energized with a high inrush current.
- Short Time Rating:
This is the amount of time a circuit breaker can carry a fault current without getting damaged. Even though the breaker might allow some current to flow through during a short circuit, it can only do so for a brief period before it must interrupt the current to prevent damage. The short time rating specifies how long the breaker can handle the fault current before tripping.
- Normal Current Rating:
This is the maximum continuous current that a circuit breaker can carry under normal operating conditions without overheating or getting damaged. It's the standard current the breaker is rated to handle during normal operation, ensuring the circuit breaker works safely and effectively within this limit.
These ratings help ensure that circuit breakers can protect electrical circuits from damage caused by overcurrent or fault conditions.
