Schneider Electric Acti 9 Isolator 100A 2 Pole DP xSW A9S2P100

What is an MCB Isolator and what is it used for?

A large section of society uses MCB as compared to RCCB because earlier the only option which was used was MCB only. Therefore, people used to rely mainly on MCB rather than RCCB. When we talk about RCCB, the fault zone is easily identified within the circuit whereas, in the case of MCB, it trips off completely. With MCB, the major focus is put on safety. All fuses need to be changed by MCB for the same. MCBs are the devices that are used in order to provide protection to an electrical circuit from an overcurrent or a short circuit. Without any hand-operated function, it recloses on its own.

The other advantage of MCB is that the problem is detected very easily. In case if there is a fault in the circuit then it is easily spotted. The switch comes down on its own and it is informed that there is a fault in the circuit. The next step is to put the MCB back in its place manually. The current will flow through the circuit again. MCB generally protects the wires from damage.

The characteristics are as follows:

1. Thermal operation
2. Trip characteristics are non-adjustable
3. Not more than 100 Amp can flow through

An isolator is basically a switch that keeps the part of the circuit isolated whenever required. Electrical isolators are specific parts that are created for safety purposes. The device is generally used at the end of the breaker to replace or repair. Since circuit breaker tends to trip off the circuit whenever there is an open contact with the breaker. To physically watch it from outside is difficult and because of the same, it is known as the “do not touch” area of the electrical circuit. Isolators are created for safety purposes so that the condition of the section of the circuit can be seen before touching it. These are used in power systems while the MCB, it is used in the circuit breaker. Isolators are operated manually and on the other hand circuit breaker is operated automatically and no manual action is needed.

There are various types of Electrical Isolators:

The types are classified on the basis of system requirements which are mentioned below:

1. Double Break Type Isolator
2. Single Break Type Isolator
3. Pantograph Type Isolator

There are various applications of the isolator such as:

It is used in high voltage devices for example transformers. The switches are protected by means of a locking system on the external side or with a lock-in order to stop accidental usage. In case If a fault occurs in a substation, a portion of the isolator is cut out. The isolator is basically an offload device that is operated manually. The entire setup is for security maintenance.