rikkevoolukaitselülitid

Rikkeoolukaitselülitid, also known as Residual Current Devices (RCDs), are safety devices designed to protect against electric shock. They work by monitoring the electrical current flowing through a circuit. If the device detects an imbalance between the current going out and the current returning, it rapidly cuts off the power supply. This imbalance typically occurs when current is leaking to earth, often through a person or faulty appliance, creating a potentially dangerous situation.

These devices are crucial for enhancing electrical safety in homes, offices, and industrial settings. They are particularly effective at preventing severe injuries or fatalities caused by indirect contact with live conductors. Unlike circuit breakers that protect against overcurrents and short circuits, RCDs specifically address the risk of earth faults.

Rikkeoolukaitselülitid are rated by their sensitivity, measured in milliamperes (mA). Common sensitivities include 30mA for general-purpose protection in living areas, and lower sensitivities like 10mA or even less in more critical applications. The faster the RCD trips, the less current flows for a shorter duration, reducing the severity of an electric shock. They are often combined with miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) in a single unit to provide both overcurrent and earth fault protection. Installation and maintenance should always be carried out by qualified electricians to ensure proper functioning.