Understanding a Shunt Trip Circuit Breaker
A shunt trip can be used to turn off the circuit breaker remotely. When activated, a shunt release quickly engages the circuit breaker mechanism, allowing for a quick separation from the power supply. The functions of a primary circuit breaker and a shunt trip accessory are combined in the shunt trip breaker. This is installed on the primary breaker to protect your electrical system.
Also, it improves the security of your electrical system by either manually or automatically shutting down the power supply to your circuit. If a disaster strikes your home, you can rest assured that a circuit breaker will protect against short circuits and electrical damage.
Shunt Trip Breaker and Its Functioning?
A PLC or any other relay can activate this device, an optional addition to a circuit breaker, to provide protection. When there is an electrical surge, circuit breakers trip automatically (current exceeds its given specified limit). A PLC or any other relay can activate this device, an optional addition to a circuit breaker, to provide protection. A metallic strip on a switch & an electromagnet installed beneath the switch connects the first two contacts of a shunt trip breaker.
Meanwhile, the wiring for the shunt trip breaker consists of two wires. One is grounded, and the other is linked to a control system. A control system can be linked to either a sensor or a manual switch. An external source powers some shunt trips.
Where are Shunt Trip Breakers Frequently Used?
In the case of a fire, shunt trips are routinely utilized to turn off electrical equipment. When a smoke detector is wired to a shunt trip, electricity can be immediately shut off once it emits an alarm, reducing the risk of electrical shock from the fire.
Due to its necessity, this shunt trip breaker is frequently seen in commercial kitchens, elevators, and offices. Commercial kitchens use ANSI/ASME CSD-1 for this equipment, while elevators and escalators use ASME A17.1.
How to Connect the Shunt Trip Accessory to the Breaker?
Install the device in the proper location on the circuit breaker. Examine your circuit breakers to see if you have the exact specifications for each one. Connect the two terminals to their rated voltage after the unit has been properly installed within the circuit breaker, with the switch leg connected to the power source and the other leg connected to the neutral (in case you are using an L-N power source).
Any line can be connected to the switch leg to provide line-to-line service. However, the most important part of any installation is connecting the shunt to your sensor.
Importance of Shunt Trip Breakers
When smoke triggers a smoke alarm, the breaker trips automatically. As a result, the smoke alarm triggers the sprinkler while the electricity to the electrical devices is turned off. The quick loss of electricity minimizes electrical damage while also lowering the chance of short circuits and electrocution.
The electricity can be turned off remotely using a manual switch if a fire has damaged a structure. Shunt trip breakers are essential safety components that protect against human risk and electrical equipment damage.
Conclusion
Overall, shunt trip breakers increase the safety of breakers. They cut the power during an emergency to prevent damage to equipment and injury to people.
A shunt trip is an optional circuit breaker accessory that provides additional protection for your system. It is designed to be linked to a secondary sensor. If the sensor is triggered, the breaker is automatically tripped. It is also possible to activate it by installing a remote switch.
