Circuit Protective Devices: Learner Work Book

Circuit Protective
Devices
Learner Work Book
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LEARNER WORK BOOK
Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 2

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Table of Contents
Foreword ........................................................................................................4
Circuit Protective Devices Unit Overview ....................................................5

Practical Skills .................................................................................................... 5
Knowledge Requirements .................................................................................. 5
Protective Devices .........................................................................................6

Cartridge fuses to BS 1361, BS 1362................................................................. 7
HBC Fuses (BS 88)............................................................................................ 8
Miniature circuit breakers (MCB’S) (BS EN 60898) Formerly BS3871 ................ 9
Residual Current Circuit Breakers BSEN61009 and Residual Current Devices
BSEN61008 ..................................................................................................... 10
Semi-enclosed / re-wireable fuses BS3036 ...................................................... 11
Moulded case circuit breakers - MCCBs BS EN60439 ..................................... 12
Air circuit breakers - ACBs BS EN 60947 ......................................................... 12
Type ‘D’ and Neozed fuses .............................................................................. 12
Current Ratings of Circuit Protective Devices ..........................................14

Selecting the correct rating of device................................................................ 15
The Operating Principles of Circuit Protection .........................................18

Fusing factor .................................................................................................... 19
HBC Fuses (BS 88).......................................................................................... 20
Cartridge fuses to BS 1361, BS 1362............................................................... 20
BSEN61008 ..................................................................................................... 21
Miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) (BS EN 60898) Formerly BS3871 ............... 24
Thermal and magnetic operation...................................................................... 25
How to Identify Ratings of Protection Devices..........................................29

Prospective fault current rating (Ipf).................................................................. 29
Overload rating................................................................................................. 31
Identifying these ratings ................................................................................... 32
Cartridge fuses to BS 1361, BS 1362............................................................... 33
HBC Fuses (BS 88).......................................................................................... 34
Miniature circuit breakers (MCB’S) (BS EN 60898) Formerly BS3871 .............. 35
BSEN61008 ..................................................................................................... 36
Discrimination and Positioning ..................................................................37

Discrimination................................................................................................... 37
Positioning of protective devices ...................................................................... 40

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Foreword
In this unit you will learn about circuit protection. Circuit protection is an immensely
important subject to grasp and is relevant to every electrical installation.
In a healthy electrical system, insulation between line conductors and neutral

conductors or between live conductors and earth is sound, with current flowing from
the supply, through the load and returning via the neutral to its source.
Overcurrent protection is provided by means of a circuit breaker or fuse. These

devices are designed to operate within specified limits, disconnecting the supply
automatically in the event of an overload or fault current (short circuits or earth
faults).
‘Overcurrent protection device’ applies to fuses and miniature circuit breakers and in
this section we will be looking at the various means by which overcurrent protection
devices provide protection to the cables and circuits from damage by too much
current fl owing. The appropriate device must operate within 0.4 or 5.0 seconds.
This workbook is to be accompanied by PowerPoint

“Circuit Protective Devices”

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Circuit Protective Devices Unit Overview
Practical Skills
To achieve the learning outcome the candidate must be able to:
Calculate the size of circuit protection in relation to design current

Select and correctly install circuit protection on a test board using a schedule
of circuits
Knowledge Requirements
To achieve the learning outcome the candidate must know:
The types, operating principles and application of different types of fuses,

MCBs, RCDs, RCBOs
The current ratings for various circuit protection devices
How to identify current ratings of various circuit protective devices in relation
to overload and short circuit
How to ensure correct measures are taken to ensure effective operation of
devices in relation to discrimination and positioning

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Protective Devices
In existence are many, many different shapes and sizes of protective devices. These
devices are used to detect overloads, and to break a circuit’s supply for protection
from short circuits. The priority of the protective device is to protect the circuit
conductors, not the appliance or the user.
Each type of fuse (and all other over current devices) has a time-current
characteristic which shows the time required to melt the fuse and the time required to
clear the circuit for any given level of overload current. Where the fuses in a system
are of similar types, simple ratios between ratings of the fuse closest to the load and
the next fuse towards the source can be used, so that only the affected circuit is
interrupted after a fault.
Of all the types available they all fall into four main categories:
1. Semi-enclosed (re-wireable) fuses to BS 3036 and cartridge fuses for use in

plugs to BS 1362.
2. High breaking capacity (HBC) fuses to BS 88 and BS 1361. These fuses are
still often known as high rupturing capacity (HRC) types.
3. Circuit breakers, miniature and moulded case types to BS EN 60898
4. Circuit breakers containing residual current protection to BS EN61008 and
61009
What type of circuit protection have you seen? Where did you see them? Write
down your answers.
We will now take a look at the various types available and in the next section we will
look at their operating characteristics.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Cartridge fuses to BS 1361, BS 1362
The cartridge fuse consists of a porcelain tube with metal end caps to which the
element is attached. The tube is then filled with granulated silica. The BS 1362 fuse
is generally found in domestic plug tops used with 13 A BS 1363 domestic socket
outlets. There are two common fuse ratings available, the 3 A, which is for use with
appliances up to 720 watts (radios, table lamps, electric blankets) and the 13 A fuse
which is used for appliances rated over 720 watts (irons, kettles, fan heaters, electric
fires, lawn mowers, toasters, refrigerators, washing machines and
Name where BS1362 fuses are most commonly used

LEARNER WORK BOOK
HBC Fuses (BS 88)
The HBC fuse is a sophisticated variation of the cartridge fuse and is normally found
protecting motor circuits and industrial installations. It consists of a porcelain body
filled with silica, a silver element and lug-type end caps. Another feature is the
indicating bead, which shows when the fuse element has blown. It is a very fast
acting fuse and can discriminate between a starting surge and an overload.
These types of fuses would be used when an abnormally high prospective short
circuit current exists.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Miniature circuit breakers (MCB’S) (BS EN 60898) Formerly BS3871
A circuit breaker is a device for isolating the supply from a circuit on load in the event
of an overload or short circuit fault occurring on that load. Under normal
circumstances it acts as a switch capable of breaking the full load current feeding the
circuit.
Due to improved design and performance, the modern MCB now forms an essential
part of the majority of installations at the final distribution level. From about 1970 the
benefits of current limiting technology have been incorporated into MCBs, thus
providing the designer/user with predictable high performance over current devices.
Types of MCB:
Thermal and Magnetic; Magnetic hydraulic; Assisted bimetal

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Residual Current Circuit Breakers BSEN61009 and Residual Current

Devices BSEN61008
RCD is the generic term for a device that operates when the residual current in the
circuit reaches a predetermined value. **Usually this value is 30mA but other ratings
are available.
Residual current devices (RCDs) are a group of devices providing a modern

approach to the enhancement of safety in electrical systems. They provide extra
protection to people and livestock by reducing the risk of electric shock. Although
RCDs operate on small currents, there are circumstances where the combination of
operating current and high earth-fault loop impedance could result in the earthed
metalwork rising to a dangerously high potential.
An r.c.d. is a device which can provide protection against:

Fire resulting from earth faults
Earth faults where circuit resistance is too high for protection by conventional
devices, i.e. circuit breakers or fuses
Where greater protection against electric shock, for example socket outlet
circuits likely to supply portable equipment outdoors
Fuses and circuit breakers are totally unable to provide this level of shock protection.
The descriptions below indicate two of the different types of RCD available and a
description of each device.
Residual Current Circuit Breakers BS EN 61009
Residual Current Devices BS EN 61008
Advantages and disadvantages of RCDs / RCCBs
As mcbs but with the added advantage of detecting the smallest amounts of leakage
current. This can also be regarded as nuisance tripping and a disadvantage.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Semi-enclosed / re-wireable fuses BS3036
A re-wireable is exactly that. It is a fuse that you can re-wire in the event of it
operating. Early re-wireable fuses had a very low short circuit capacity and were very
dangerous when operating under fault conditions because the fuse element melts
and splashes the melted copper around and can cause fires.
Later re-wireable fuses incorporated asbestos to protect the fuse holder during the
fusing period, thus reducing the risk of fire from scattering hot metal when rupturing.
Do you know what type of protective devices you have in your home? If so
state which ones and where they exist. You may be required to share your
answer with the class.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Moulded case circuit breakers - MCCBs BS EN60439
Mould case circuit breakers perform much the

same function as the miniature circuit
breakers we looked at above but are used in
installations where higher levels of fault
current are present such as in smaller sub-
stations. They are usually adjustable to allow
for an amount of over-current. They are rated
up to 1000 amps.
Air circuit breakers - ACBs BS EN 60947
Air circuit breakers are used to interrupt circuits

while current flows through them. Air circuit
breakers may use compressed air to blow out the
arc, or alternatively, the contacts are rapidly
swung into a small sealed chamber, the escaping
of the displaced air thus blowing out the arc. As
with MCCBs they too are usually adjustable to
allow for ranges of over-current. They are rated
up to 10,000 amps.
Type ‘D’ and Neozed fuses
Both these fuses are manufactured in Germany and

have been developed to European testing regulations
where all European testing authorities have approved
them. The Neozed is the successor to the ‘D’ type
fuse. You may in the course of your work come into
contact with either type of fuse.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Now complete the questions below.
1. What is the purpose of a protective device?
2. Explain what is meant by time-current characteristic
3. Name the five main types of circuit protection and state their BS number.
4. Describe what a BS1361 / BS1362 device is and state an advantage and

disadvantage of using one.
5. Describe what a BS88 device is and state an advantage and disadvantage of using
one.
6. Describe what a BSEN60898 device is and state an advantage and disadvantage of

using one.
7. Describe what a BSEN61009 device is and state an advantage and disadvantage of

using one.
8. Describe what a BS3036 device is and state an advantage and disadvantage of using
one.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Current Ratings of Circuit Protective Devices

Individual ratings vary with each device. Current ratings range between less than 6A
to greater than 1000A. They generally increase in rating by 25%. The most common
values can be found in BS7671 Appendix 3
Using the tables in your “Tables from the Regulations and On Site Guide” notes
write down the current ratings of the main types of over current protective
devices.
Fuses to BS3036
Rating
(amps)
Type B, C and D circuit breakers to BS EN 60898 and RCBOs to BS EN 61009

Rating
(amps)
General purpose fuses to BS88

Rating
(amps

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Selecting the correct rating of device
Determining how much current will flow in the circuit is the first step required to
correct device rating selection. This current is known as the design current and is the
full load current of the circuit. It is calculated using one of the formulae below
depending on the type of load. You need to ensure all units have to be calculated at
the same value (i.e. kW have to be divided by kV; W have to be divided by V)
Where: I = the design current in amps (A)

P = the circuit power in watts (W)
V = the circuit voltage in volts (V)
Cos Φ = the power factor
Resistive loads
The following formulae apply to single and three line supplies:
P P
I= I=
V 3 ×V
Single-line
230v Three line 400v
Resistive Resistive
Inductive and / or capacitive loads

The following formulae apply to single and three line supplies:
P P
I= I=
V × cos Φ 3 × V × cos Φ
Single-line 230v
Inductive and or Three line 400v
Capacitive Inductive and or Capacitive
In a.c. circuits, the effects of either highly inductive or highly capacitive loads can
produce a poor power factor (cos Ф) (inductive and capacitive loads will be explained
later). For now it is satisfactory to know that in circuits where there are inductive and
electronic components such as coils and capacitors there are losses. These losses
slightly increase the amount of current the equipment uses. You will have to allow for
this in motor and discharge lighting circuits. Note √3 = 1.732
Once the design current has been determined we select the setting that is
equal to or greater than the current value. This usually requires us to
choose the next highest in value. Therefore for BS88 fuses with 14, 18 and
31 amps of current we would select 16, 20 and 32 amps devices
respectively.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Example 1.
A single-line lighting circuit has a total power consumption of 2000 watts using 100-
watt filament lamps. Calculate the design current and BS88 fuse rating.
i) Select the correct formula. (Single line; 230v, resistive)
P
I=
V
ii) Input the data into the formula and work it out to two decimal places and be sure to
add the unit (A).
2000
I= = 8.70 A
230
iii) Select the single pole (single line) device rating equal to or greater than the
calculated value of current. In this case a 10 amp fuse would be selected.
Example 2.
A three-line inductive load has a total power consumption of 30,000 watts (30kW)
with a power factor of 0.95. Calculate the design current and the BSEN60898 Type D
device rating.
i) Select the correct formula. (Three line; 400v, inductive)
P
I=
3 × V × cos Φ
ii) Input the data into the formula and work it out to two decimal places and be sure to
add the unit (A).
30000
I= = 45.58 A
3 × 400 × 0.95
iii) Select the triple pole (three line) device rating equal to or greater than the
calculated value of current. In this case a 50 amp motor rated (Type D) MCB would
be selected.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Complete the exercise below. You are asked to calculate the design current and
select the correct rating of protective device.
1. A BS88 device is required to protect a

single line under floor heating circuit
(resistive) that has a total power rating
of 6kW
2. A resistive 230v lighting circuit with

total power of 1000 watts is to be
protected by a semi enclosed fuse
3. A 230v discharge lighting circuit of four

flood lights with a total load per fitting
of 270 watts (manufacturers lamp
information) is protected by Type C
BSEN60898 device
4. A 400v 32A IP44 socket supplying a

portable machine whose rating is 15kW
is to be connected to a BS88 fuse
board
5. What will be the rating of the

BSEN60898 device that protects a
10.5kW power shower in a domestic
property?
6. Twenty five inductive loads rated at

400v 0.75kW each (with cos Φ of 0.95)
are to be controlled by one panel with
individual MCBs. What size BS88 fuse
will protect the main panel?

LEARNER WORK BOOK
The Operating Principles of Circuit Protection

Overload currents occur in circuits which have no faults but are carrying a higher
current than the design value due to overloaded machines, an error in the
assessment of diversity, and so on. When a conductor system carries more current
than its design value, there is a danger of the conductors, and hence the insulation,
reaching temperatures which will reduce the useful life of the system.
Examination of the characteristics of these devices (see your “Tables from BS7671
and the on-site guide” appendices) indicates that they are not the 'instant protectors'
they are widely assumed to be. For example, an overloaded 30A semi-enclosed fuse
takes about 100 seconds to 'blow' when carrying twice its rated current. If it carries
450 A in the event of a fault (fifteen times rated current), it takes about 0.1 s to
operate, or five complete cycles of a 50 Hz supply.
HBC fuses are faster in operation, but BS 88 Part 2 specifies that a fuse rated at 63
A or less must NOT operate within one hour when carrying a current 20% greater
than its rating.
Circuit breakers are slower in operation than is generally believed. For example, BS
EN 60898 only requires a 30 A miniature circuit breaker to operate within one hour
when carrying a current of 40 A. At very high currents operation is described by the
British Standard as ‘instantaneous’, which is actually within 0.01 seconds.
All protective devices, then, will carry overload currents for significant times without
opening. The designer must take this fact into account in his calculations. The circuit
must be designed to prevent, as far as possible, the presence of comparatively small
overloads of long duration.
The overload provisions of the Regulations are met if the setting of the
device:
1. Exceeds the circuit design current.

2. Does NOT exceed the rating of the smallest cable protected.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Fusing factor
It is evident that each of the protective devices discussed in the previous section
provide different levels of protection, e.g. re-wireable fuses are slower to operate and
less accurate than MCBs. In order to classify these devices it is important to have
some means of knowing their circuit breaking and ‘fusing’ performance. This is
achieved for fuses by the use of a fusing factor.
Fusing factor = Fusing current

Current rating
This is the ratio of the fusing current, which is the minimum current that will cause the
fuse to blow and the stated current rating of the fuse or MCB (which is the maximum
current that the fuse can sustain without blowing). Fusing currents can be found in
Appendix 3 of BS 7671. These tables are logarithmic and the scales increase by
factors often, not uniformly as may be expected, and therefore the interpretation of
these scales will require some practice. The rating of the fuse is the current it will
carry continuously without deterioration.
Fusing factors for the above devices can generally be grouped as follows:
BS3036 1.8–2.0 BS1361 1.6–1.9 BS88 1.25–1.7 MCBs up to 1.5.
The higher the fusing factor, the less accurate – and therefore less reliable –
the device selected will be.
You may, while looking at fuses, have noticed a number followed by the letters kA
stamped onto the end cap of an HBC fuse or printed onto the body of a BS 1361
fuse. This is known as the breaking capacity of fuses and circuit breakers. When a
short circuit occurs, the current may, for a fraction of a second, reach hundreds or
even thousands of amperes. The protective device must be able to break or make
such a current without damage to its surroundings by arcing, overheating or the
scattering of hot particles.
The breaking capacities of MCBs are indicated by an ‘M’ number e.g. M6. This
means that the breaking capacity is 6 kA or 6,000 A. The breaking capacity will be
related to the prospective fault current.
Consider a protective device (fuse or MCB) rated at 20 A. This value of

current can be carried indefinitely by the device and is known as its nominal
current setting, In. The value of current that will cause the device to operate,
I2, will be larger than In and will be dependent on the device’s fusing factor.
This fusing factor figure, when multiplied by the nominal setting In, will give
the value of operating current I2.
For fuses to BS 1361, BS 88 and circuit breakers to BS 3871 and BS/EN

60898, the fusing factor has been approximated to 1.45. Therefore our 20 A
device would operate when the current reached 29 A (1.45 × 20).

LEARNER WORK BOOK
HBC Fuses (BS 88)
The fuse element consists of several parallel strips of pure silver with notches cut at
pre-determined positions. A short length of pure tinfoil is wrapped round the centre
notch of each strip. The silver strips are spot-welded to silver-plated copper end
rings.
This type of construction gives the required fusing factor as well as a time/current
characteristic suitable for the apparatus to be protected. It also provides freedom
from deterioration and limits the temperature rise. This is because the addition of
pure tin to each silver strip of the fuse-element lowers the melting point of the
combination and enables the fuse to operate at a fusing factor in the order of 1.4
without excessive temperature rise at the road at the rated current.
The use of a composite silver/tin fuse-element permits the cross-sectional area to be

much larger than that of a pure silver fuse-element, with the result that its thermal
capacity is greater, giving a longer time lag with comparatively small over currents.
The notching of the fuse elements ensures that the circuit is cleared
quickly with short circuit currents
The tin is wrapped round the silver cord so that the fuse elements work with all the
freedom from deterioration of a pure silver fuse element in ordinary service
conditions. When an over current occurs, the tin and the silver alloy melt, breaking
the circuit. Freedom from deterioration is further ensured by the spot welding of the
ends of the fuse element.
The cartridge has a substantial ceramic core. With a silver-plated copper end ring
secured to each end to form the end connections of the fuse element. Electro-tinned
brass end caps are pressed over the copper end rings and the cartridge is finally
sealed by means of outer end rings of electro-tinned steel spun into grooves in the
fuse core. A fibre washer is interposed between the spun on outer end ring and the
brass end cap. All cartridges are filled with silica sand to ensure quick and effective
arc extinction in all conditions of operations.
Cartridge fuses are sometimes regarded as HBC fuses and as such as constructed
in much the same way so that they achieve the same type of operation.
When current flows in a circuit, heat is given off. If the current is lower than the fuse
rating then the fuse can dissipate (get rid of) the heat into the surrounding air. If
however, current greater than the rating of the fuse flows in the circuit, then the fuse
will be unable to dissipate (get rid of) the heat as easily and the fuse wire overheats.
When the fuse wire reaches a set temperature, it will melt.

LEARNER WORK BOOK

Devices BSEN61008
How these devices operate
An RCD will detect an imbalance in either the three line and neutral currents in a
TP&N circuit or P - N current in a single-line circuit. An imbalance in this context
means that the sum of the circuit current does not equal zero. This situation will be
interpreted by the RCD as an earth fault, between either a neutral or a line conductor
and earth. Conversely if there is a current of 6 amps flowing in both line and neutral
coils the circuit is said to be balanced and is considered equal.
These devices can achieve great sensitivity and can give a measure of protection
against direct contact, although it should be emphasised that the protection referred
to is against electrocution not electric shock.
The main feature of the RCD is the toroid. As you can see below, there is an
iron (easily magnetised) core. This core is wound with a search coil, which is
connected to a trip mechanism. The toroid also has two other coils (line and
neutral) wrapped around it. These are the line and neutral conductors inside
the device.
Flux produced by the line

Line coil coil (clock-wise)
Search coil
Flux produced by the neutral coil
(Anti-clockwise)
Neutral coil

LEARNER WORK BOOK
The R.C.D under healthy circuit conditions
Balanced current creates a balanced core. The magnetic flux produced by each core
is equal and opposite in value. Therefore the circuit is considered healthy. Follow the
principle below.
The same current flows in the line and neutral conductor.

The current in each conductor produces a changing magnetic field around
itself.
The change in the magnetic field around the conductors produces a magnetic
circuit in the line and neutral coils.
The interaction of the two magnetic fields produced by the conductors cancel each
other out and the search coil cannot ‘sense’ (have a current induced in it) any
difference between the two.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
The R.C.D under earth fault conditions
Imbalance created due to fault to earth. The magnetic field produced by each coil is
now unequal in value.
As you can see, there is now a difference between the line and the neutral current.
The reason for this is that current will follow any path provided for it. Under earth fault
conditions there is at least one other path, the earth. Therefore the circuit is
considered unhealthy. Follow the principle below.
A different current flows in the line and neutral conductors.

The currents in the line and neutral produce a changing magnetic flux around
themselves.
These magnetic fluxes produce a magnetic circuit in the core.
As the two currents are different, so the magnetic fluxes are different, and the
magnetic circuit in the core is not cancelled out and the search coil ‘picks up’
the difference.
If the two currents are out by a set amount then the search coil will operate a
small relay that will trip a switch, opening the circuit.
Everything operates on balance. If the currents in the coil are not the same
then the RCD will operate. If the currents are the same then the RCD will not
trip. This means that we have to be aware that an RCD will not trip under an
overload condition.
If there is a fault between line and neutral, and the current flowing is 500A, then
because the magnetic circuit in the core of the RCD is balanced then it will not trip. It
may well blow up but it won’t trip.
The RCD is therefore very different from other protective devices in that it will only
operate under earth fault conditions and no other.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) (BS EN 60898) Formerly BS3871
A circuit breaker is a device for isolating the supply from a circuit on load in the event
of an overload or short circuit fault occurring on that load. Under normal
circumstances it acts as a switch capable of breaking the full load current feeding the
circuit.
As opposed to a fuse, which melts to isolate the supply, a circuit breaker is a

mechanical device. It can either be magnetic, thermal or thermal magnetic. The
majority of circuit breakers have thermal device for overload protection and magnetic
device for short circuit protection.
The major advantages of circuit breakers are that if anything goes wrong it
will switch off, but once the fault has been corrected power maybe readily
restored by switching the circuit breaker on again. There is no question of
having to hunt for fuse wire, or having to keep a stock of replacement
cartridge fuses, or having to find suitable tools to perform the operation.
A single visit to the distribution board enables the faulty circuit to be identified and if
the fault has been removed for the power to be restored. Furthermore, when the fault
has been cleaned it is always possible to restore power if circuit breakers are used,
but with fuses if the correct size of fuse wire or the correct replacement cartridge is
not available there is always the risk of makeshift replacements being used.
BS EN 60898 defines the rated current (In) of a circuit breaker for household
applications as the current that the breaker is designed to carry continuously (at an
ambient temperature of 30 °C).
The circuit breaker is labelled with the rated current in amperes (A), is preceded of
followed by a letter "B", "C" or "D" that indicates the instantaneous tripping current,
that is the minimum value of current that causes the circuit-breaker to trip without
intentional time delay.
• Type B – operate at 3 to 5 times In

• Type C – operate at 5 to 10 times In
• Type D – operate at 10 to 20 times In

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Thermal and magnetic operation
Before we discuss how an MCB operates we first need to understand the operation
of a couple of the key components.
Bi-metallic strip
A bi-metallic strip is used to convert a temperature change into mechanical

displacement. The strip consists of two strips of different metals that expand at
different rates as they are heated, usually steel and copper. The strips are joined
together throughout their length by rivets, by brazing or by welding. The different
expansions force the flat strip to bend one way if heated, and in the opposite
direction if cooled below its normal temperature. The metal with the higher expansion
is on the outer side of the curve when the strip is heated and on the inner side when
cooled.
Thermal Operation
The thermal aspect of the breaker uses a bimetallic strip, which heats and bends with
increased current, and is similarly arranged to release the latch. This type is
commonly used with motor control circuits. Thermal breakers often have a
compensation element to reduce the effect of ambient temperature on the device
rating.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Solenoid
A solenoid is a loop of wire, often wrapped around a metallic core, which produces a
magnetic field when an electrical current is passed through it. Solenoids are
important because they can create controlled magnetic fields and can be used as
electromagnets. In engineering, the term solenoid may also refer to a variety of
devices that convert energy into linear motion.
Magnetic operation
The magnetic aspect of the circuit breakers are implemented using a solenoid
(electromagnet) whose pulling force increases exponentially as the current increases.
The circuit breaker's contacts are held closed by a latch and, as the current in the
solenoid increases beyond the rating of the circuit breaker, the solenoid's pull
releases the latch which then allows the contacts to open by spring action.
Some types of magnetic breakers incorporate a hydraulic time delay feature where in
the solenoid core is located in a tube containing a viscous fluid. The core is
restrained by a spring until the current exceeds the breaker rating. During an
overload, the solenoid pulls the core through the fluid to close the magnetic circuit,
which then provides sufficient force to release the latch. The delay permits brief
current surges beyond normal running current for motor starting, energizing
equipment, etc. Short circuit currents provide sufficient solenoid force to release the
latch regardless of core position thus bypassing the delay feature. Ambient
temperature affects the time delay but does not affect the current rating of a magnetic
breaker.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Thermo-magnetic components
Below is a photograph of the internal details of an energised 32-ampere European

DIN rail mounted thermal-magnetic miniature circuit breaker. Circuit breakers such as
this are the most common style in modern domestic consumer units and commercial
electrical distribution boards throughout Europe. Unfortunately, while the size and
shape of the opening in the front and its elevation from the rail are standardised, the
arrangements for busbar connections are not, so installers need to take care that the
chosen breaker fits the bus bar in a particular board.
We will now take a look at the internal components of a thermo-magnetic MCB and
discover how it operates via the power point presentation.
3
2
1 7 8
4
6 5
1. Actuator lever - used to manually trip and reset the circuit breaker. Also
indicates the status of the circuit breaker (On or Off/tripped). Most breakers
are designed so they can still trip even if the lever is held or locked in the on
position.
2. Actuator mechanism - forces the contacts together or apart and is spring
loaded.
3. Contacts - Allow current to flow when touching and break the flow of current
when moved apart. Controlled by three different activities.
4. Terminals – to connect to the busbar and for the final circuit to connect into.
5. Bimetallic strip – carries current and heats in accordance with the amount of
current. It will de-activate the spring-loaded actuator mechanism in the event
of over-current.
6. Calibration screw - allows the manufacturer to precisely adjust the trip current
of the device after assembly.
7. Solenoid – under high level fault currents will magnetically draw a plunger in
that is mechanically connected to the contact bar and actuator mechanism.
8. Arc divider / extinguisher – discharges and cools high levels of fault current
across copper plates that are insulated from each other.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
1. Explain what is meant by “fusing factor”?
2. Name the two factors that need to be met so that the overload provisions of the
regulations are satisfied.
3. With regard to BS88 fuses explain why the fuse element is notched. What is used to
fill the fuse and why is it used?
4. Explain the operating principles of a BSEN61008 device and draw the circuit
diagram
5. Describe the operating principles of the thermo and magnetic components of a

BSEN60898 device and explain how the device operates under overload and short
circuit conditions.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
How to Identify Ratings of Protection Devices

Protective device is the name used for a wide variety of electrical components, from
the ‘common’ fuse found in many homes, to other more complex devices like circuit
breakers. In this section we have looked at the types of protective devices that exist
and why it is that these are chosen.
It is important to know what protective devices are not installed for. They are not
installed to stop people getting an electric shock. Neither are they an excuse for bad
workmanship, hoping that if anything goes wrong then the ‘fuse will blow’. Protective
devices are installed to protect the installation from fault currents and overloads.
Q. What is an overload and what is a fault current and why is it important to

know what the difference is between them?
A. They are both electrical terms and have precise definitions. (See below)
Prospective fault current rating (Ipf)
BS7671 states that a prospective fault current is: -
The value of overcurrent at a given point

in a circuit resulting from a fault of
negligible impedance between live
conductors having a difference of
potential under normal operating
conditions or between a live conductor
and an exposed-conductive part.
You can see that there is a direct

connection between the two conductors (either live/live; live/neutral or live/earth).
There is no load connected and there is very little resistance between the two
conductors.
If you recall your work with Ohm’s Law, try to follow this, assuming the resistance
between the supply DB and the faulty final circuit is 0.1Ω and the supply voltage is
230V.
Work out the level of earth fault current
Uo
If =
Zs
You can see that the fault current flowing due to an earth fault can be enormous.
An over-current device must be able to withstand this massive amount of current.

Therefore selecting the correct device will depend upon the expected amount of fault
current. This is considered through various methods depending upon the whether the
installation is single or three line.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
A circuit will always have a certain amount of impedance or resistance. The lower
this impedance is the more fault current will flow. For now though it is suitable to
understand using Ohms law that the lower the impedance the higher the fault current.
Each and every device is manufactured with a breaking capacity. This means that it
will be made to be able to withstand a certain level of fault current. If an over-current
device is installed where its breaking capacity is less than the expected fault current
it can have devastating effects:
The over-current device can explode.

It can melt and weld in the closed position.
The device can catch fire.
Explain why would the device melting and welding in the closed position be dangerous?
To establish the breaking capacity of an over-current device depends upon the

device and we will look at each type on the next pages. Generally, it can be visibly
seen on the device or manufacturer’s information may need to be consulted.
Let us consider the breaking capacity of an MCB is 3kA (3000 amps). In order for
that device to withstand a level of fault current it must not exceed 3000 amps. The
maximum resistance (or earth loop impedance as it is known) should not exceed
0.07 Ω.
For this reason maximum earth loop impedance values for each device is listed in the
Tables from BS7671 and Onsite Guide. See table 41.2, 41.3 and 41.4.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Overload rating
BS7671 calls an overload:-
An over-current in a circuit that is electrically

sound.
This seems a bit strange, after all what is the

problem if the circuit is sound? A circuit may
be sound, however the load or appliance
connected to the circuit may demand more
current than has been allowed for in the
design.
Imagine connecting a fire, which demands 20A, to a circuit that has only been
designed to carry 10A. The circuit is not at fault; it is the person who has connected
too large a load to the circuit who is at fault. Therefore the circuit is sound and it is
the introduction of an extra element that causes it. Motors can also overload when
the mechanical demand is increased and the motor over compensates to keep to the
same speed.
Here we see a socket that has had to supply more current that it is designed too for a
long period of time.
What can happen in the event of an overload?
So an over-current device is designed to carry an amount of current indefinitely. If

this value is exceeded then the device should operate before a hazardous event
occurs.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Identifying these ratings
The over- current protection of these devices is achieved by fuse wire that can be
changed by the user. The thickness of the wire determines the amount of current it
can safely carry. The bodies of the devices are colour coded to display their
supposed rating. Although as the fuse wire can be replaced by the user it has been
known for 5 Amp devices containing larger 15 or 30 Amp fuse wire.
The main BS3036 fuses used today are shown below. They are identified by their
colour.
5 Amps – White
15 Amps – Blue
20 Amps – Yellow
30 Amps – Red
45 Amps – Green
These devices are classified into three categories for short circuit rating. The ratings
of these are not apparent and the manufacturers should be consulted.
S1A – 1KA (1000 amps)

S2A – 2KA (2000 amps)
S3A – 4KA (4000 amps)

LEARNER WORK BOOK
The over- current protection of these devices is achieved by the fuse wire that is
contained within the glass body of the device. The thickness of the wire determines
the amount of current it can safely carry. The bodies of the devices are colour coded
The main BS1361 and 1362 fuses used today are shown below. They are identified
by their size and their colour. The ratings however are apparent by observing the
body where they are also written in amps.
3 Amps - Red
5 Amps – White
13 Amps - Brown
16 Amps – Blue
20 Amps – Yellow
30 Amps – Red
45 Amps – Green
These devices are classified into two categories for short circuit rating. The ratings of
these are not always apparent and the manufacturers should be consulted.
Type 1 – 16.5KA (16,500 amps)

Type 2 – 33.0KA (33,000 amps)

LEARNER WORK BOOK
HBC Fuses (BS 88)
The over- current protection of these devices is achieved by the fuse wire that is
contained within the glass body of the device. The thickness of the wire determines
the amount of current it can safely carry. The bodies of the devices are not colour
coded and vary from between manufacturers.
They are identified by their size the ratings are apparent by observing the body
where they are written in amps.
What size do you think the one shown above is?
These devices are classified into two categories for short circuit rating. The ratings of
these are usually apparent by observing the body of the fuse.
BS88-2.1 – 50KA at 400V (50,000 amps)

BS88-6 – 80KA at 400V (50,000 amps)
16.5KA at 230V (16,500 amps)

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Miniature circuit breakers (MCB’S) (BS EN 60898) Formerly BS3871
The over-current protection of these devices is achieved by the choice and setting of
the bi-metallic strip that is contained within the body of the device.
The bodies of the devices are not

colour coded and vary in shape
and size between manufacturers. It
is apparent though from observing
the body of the device as to its
This rating and trip characteristic i.e. its
one type.
Its type refers to how the

device will handle overload.
Type B operates instantly at
certain levels of overload
where as a type D will handle
that level of overload for a
slightly longer spell of time.
This is particularly useful for
inductive load circuits.
What rating and type do you

think the one shown above is?
These devices are classified into main categories for short circuit rating. The ratings
of these are always apparent by observing the body of the device. Always look for
the large rating inside a rectangle.
What is the short circuit capacity of the

MCB on the left?
BS3871 (Replaced by BS EN 60898) – BS EN 60898 and BS EN 61009 –

M1 1.0KA (1000 amps) M1.5 1.5KA (1500 amps)
M1.5 1.5KA (1500 amps) M3 3.0KA (3000 amps)
M3 3.0KA (3000 amps) M6 6.0KA (6000 amps)
M4.5 4.5KA (4500 amps) M10 10.0KA (10,000 amps)
M6 6.0KA (6000 amps) M15 15.0KA (15,000 amps)
M9 9.0KA (9000 amps) M20 20.0KA (20,000 amps)
M25 25.0KA (25,000 amps)

LEARNER WORK BOOK

Devices BSEN61008
Ratings of these devices are as per BS EN 60898 devices in both over-current and
short circuit protection. They can be identified in exactly the same way. So, how do
we know whether a device is a residual current device?
The thing that makes them unique is the fact that they bear the rating of their earth
leakage protection rating too. This is shown in either milliamps (mA) or amps (A)
usually shown like this:
(I∆n 30 mA). The mA rating indicates the amount of earth leakage current that it
takes to operate the device.
See the pictures below.
Can you see the residual Can you see the residual
current rating of the device current rating of the device
above? Write it down. above? Write it down.
Now answer the questions below
1. What does the overload rating on a protective device indicate?
2. What does the short circuit rating on a device indicate?

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Discrimination and Positioning
Selecting protective devices is not always a straightforward process. Selecting the

incorrect rating or positioning the device in the wrong location can mean:
The circuit may not operate correctly

Other circuits may be affected by a fault
The circuit may not be fully protected
The installation may develop into an unsafe state
Discrimination
In both large and small installations, there is usually a series of fuses and/or circuit
breakers between the incoming supply and the electrical outlets. The relative rating
of the protective devices used will decrease the nearer they are located to the current
using equipment.
Ideally when a fault occurs, only the device nearest the fault operates, thus ensuring
minimum disruption to other circuits not associated with the fault. Discrimination is
said to have taken place when the smaller rated local device operates before the
larger device.
Discrimination is generally only a problem when a system uses a mixture of devices.

Obviously a particular type of fuse will discriminate against a similar type of fuse if it
is of larger rating.
Discrimination is also known as the co-ordination between fuses.
Applying discrimination is the act of designing a system in such a way that only the
minimum numbers of circuits are affected by the operation of a protective device.
BS7671 demands that discrimination is applied where it is necessary to prevent
danger, however, even when it is not dangerous, it is good practice to apply
discrimination.
If a fault were to occur on circuit D we would want to have device D operate before
either B or A.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Discrimination requires more consideration to be given to the type of protective

device and it is not adequate to merely choose the next size of protective device and
assume that it will be ‘big enough’. At the moment it is sufficient for you to understand
that with discrimination we are trying to ensure that the protective device nearest to
the fault operates first.
For example:
An overload current of 30A flows in circuit D. It is protected by a 6 A Type
C BSEN60898 circuit breaker. Fig3.5 shows that 30 amps will cause the 6-
amp device to operate within 15s.
The device at position B is a BS88 HRC fuse with a 10-amp rating. Fig3.3B
show that 30 amps will cause the 10-amp device to operate within 6s.
This would mean that in the event of 30 amps of overload on circuit D,

device B would operate first which would mean circuits E and F would also
lose their supply.
Consider the implications of the above example and explain what sort of things
would happen as a result of device B operating before the overloaded circuit D

LEARNER WORK BOOK
As a rule we usually ensure that the device protecting a final circuit is half the size of
the one that protects the consumer unit. And that device is half the size of the device
that protects that consumer unit and so on. Finer discrimination can be achieved if
we use a ratio of 1:1.6
Now answer the questions below
Work out the minimum fuse ratings in the example distribution network on the
previous page. Notice the different ways to represent devices below
1. Fuse A is a BS88 200 amp. Work out the rating of device B (BS88)
2. Fuse F is a BS3036 15 amp and device B is a Type C MCB
3. Fuse C is a 50 amp BS88 and device A is also a BS88
4. Fuse E is a Type B BSEN60898 and device B is a 20A BS88
5. Fuses D, E and F are all D10 MCBs. Size the BS88 device B.
6. All fuses are BS88. Devices D, E and F are 6 A. Devices B and C are 32A
what will be Device A rated at?

LEARNER WORK BOOK
Positioning of protective devices
It is worthwhile looking at a typical circuit and then considering where protective

devices would be positioned. You can’t just stick a fuse anywhere and expect the
right things to happen. Careful thought and an application of BS7671 is necessary.
From the requirements of regulation 473-01-01 it states that a protective

device should be positioned where: -
1. A reduction occurs in the size of the cable;
2. Installation method changes;
3. The type of cable changes;
4. The environmental conditions change.
The above requirement 2, 3 and 4 do not apply where the circuit is protected against
fault current. So if the circuit disconnects within the required time it is not a
requirement to install devices at those locations.

LEARNER WORK BOOK
1. With regard to circuit protection explain what is meant by discrimination.
2. Using the diagram on page 56 assume fuses D, E and F are 6A BS88s. Write
down the minimum sizes of BS88s for fuses B and A so that correct discrimination
is achieved.
3. What is the “rule of thumb” figure used to ensure the correct rating of devices are
used to ensure discrimination is achieved?
4. State 4 examples where it might be necessary to introduce a protective device

into a circuit.
5. Assuming a circuit is sufficiently protected from fault current when is the only
example when you are required to introduce a protective device into a circuit.

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Circuit Protective

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 2

Circuit Protective Devices Unit Overview ....................................................5

Protective Devices .........................................................................................6

Current Ratings of Circuit Protective Devices ..........................................14

The Operating Principles of Circuit Protection .........................................18

How to Identify Ratings of Protection Devices..........................................29

Discrimination and Positioning ..................................................................37

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 3

In a healthy electrical system, insulation between line conductors and neutral

Overcurrent protection is provided by means of a circuit breaker or fuse. These

This workbook is to be accompanied by PowerPoint

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 4

Circuit Protective Devices Unit Overview

Calculate the size of circuit protection in relation to design current

The types, operating principles and application of different types of fuses,

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 5

1. Semi-enclosed (re-wireable) fuses to BS 3036 and cartridge fuses for use in

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 6

Cartridge fuses to BS 1361, BS 1362

Name where BS1362 fuses are most commonly used

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 7

HBC Fuses (BS 88)

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 8

Miniature circuit breakers (MCB’S) (BS EN 60898) Formerly BS3871

Thermal and Magnetic; Magnetic hydraulic; Assisted bimetal

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 9

Residual Current Circuit Breakers BSEN61009 and Residual Current

Residual current devices (RCDs) are a group of devices providing a modern

An r.c.d. is a device which can provide protection against:

Residual Current Circuit Breakers BS EN 61009

Residual Current Devices BS EN 61008

Advantages and disadvantages of RCDs / RCCBs

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 10

Semi-enclosed / re-wireable fuses BS3036

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 11

Moulded case circuit breakers - MCCBs BS EN60439

Mould case circuit breakers perform much the

Air circuit breakers - ACBs BS EN 60947

Air circuit breakers are used to interrupt circuits

Type ‘D’ and Neozed fuses

Both these fuses are manufactured in Germany and

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 12

Now complete the questions below.

1. What is the purpose of a protective device?

2. Explain what is meant by time-current characteristic

4. Describe what a BS1361 / BS1362 device is and state an advantage and

6. Describe what a BSEN60898 device is and state an advantage and disadvantage of

7. Describe what a BSEN61009 device is and state an advantage and disadvantage of

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 13

Current Ratings of Circuit Protective Devices

Type B, C and D circuit breakers to BS EN 60898 and RCBOs to BS EN 61009

General purpose fuses to BS88

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 14

Selecting the correct rating of device

Where: I = the design current in amps (A)

Inductive and / or capacitive loads

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 15

i) Select the correct formula. (Single line; 230v, resistive)

i) Select the correct formula. (Three line; 400v, inductive)

Circuit Protective Devices REV4.1 16

1. A BS88 device is required to protect a