piirirajatiste

Piirirajatiste is an Estonian term that translates to "circuit breaker" in English. It refers to an electrical safety device designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by overcurrent or short circuit. When an abnormal current is detected, the piirirajatiste automatically interrupts the flow of electricity. This prevents overheating of wires and components, which could otherwise lead to fires or damage to connected appliances.

Piirirajatised are essential components in virtually all electrical systems, from household wiring to industrial power grids. They are typically installed in series with the circuit they are protecting. When the current flowing through the piirirajatiste exceeds a predetermined limit, a mechanism within the device is activated. This mechanism opens the electrical contacts, thereby breaking the circuit and stopping the flow of current.

There are various types of piirirajatised, with the most common being thermal, magnetic, and thermal-magnetic. Thermal piirirajatised utilize a bimetallic strip that bends when heated by excessive current, triggering the trip mechanism. Magnetic piirirajatised employ an electromagnet that activates the trip when the current creates a strong enough magnetic field. Thermal-magnetic piirirajatised combine both principles for enhanced protection. Their proper functioning is crucial for ensuring electrical safety and preventing potential hazards.