diferentsiaalkaitselüliti

Diferentsiaalkaitselüliti, often abbreviated as RCD (Residual Current Device) or GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) in English, is an electrical safety device that protects against electric shock and fire hazards caused by earth faults. It functions by monitoring the electrical current flowing through a circuit and comparing the current flowing out to the circuit with the current returning. If a significant imbalance is detected, indicating that current is leaking to the earth, the device rapidly interrupts the power supply.

The primary purpose of a diferentsiaalkaitselüliti is to detect residual currents, which are currents that flow through an unintended path, such as through a person who has come into contact with an energized component and an earth ground. Standard circuit breakers and fuses are designed to protect against overcurrents (overloads and short circuits) but are not sensitive enough to detect the relatively small leakage currents that can cause severe electric shock. The diferentsiaalkaitselüliti is specifically designed to trip at a low current level, typically 30 milliamperes (mA) for personal protection, or higher for equipment protection.

These devices are commonly installed in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, particularly in areas where the risk of electric shock is higher, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor locations. They can be incorporated into individual socket outlets, installed as standalone units in a distribution board, or integrated into larger switchgear. By quickly disconnecting the power when a fault is detected, a diferentsiaalkaitselüliti significantly reduces the risk of injury or death from electric shock and can also help prevent fires caused by electrical faults.