RCCB and ELCB, differences between them and their usage

RCCB stands for Residual Current Circuit Breaker. It is a device that detects the imbalance of current between the live and neutral wires of a circuit, and trips the circuit when the residual current exceeds a certain threshold. RCCBs are also known as RCDs (Residual Current Devices).

ELCB stands for Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker. It is a device that detects the leakage of current from the live wire to the earth wire of a circuit, and disconnects the circuit when the leakage current exceeds a certain limit. ELCBs are also known as VOELCBs (Voltage Operated Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers).

The main differences between RCCB and ELCB are:

• RCCB is based on current sensing, while ELCB is based on voltage sensing.
• RCCB measures the difference between the current flowing in the live and neutral wires, while ELCB measures the voltage between the earth wire and an external electrode.
• RCCB does not require an earth connection, while ELCB does.
• RCCB is more sensitive and can detect lower levels of residual current, while ELCB is less sensitive and can only detect higher levels of leakage current.
• RCCB can protect against both direct and indirect contact with live parts, while ELCB can only protect against direct contact.

The applications of RCCB and ELCB are:

• RCCB is used to prevent electric shock, fire hazard, and damage to equipment caused by residual current. It is suitable for circuits that have sensitive electronic devices, such as computers, TVs, refrigerators, etc.
• ELCB is used to prevent electric shock caused by leakage current. It is suitable for circuits that have metal parts that can come in contact with the earth, such as water heaters, washing machines, etc.