stroomonderbreker

A stroomonderbreker, often translated as a circuit breaker, is an automatic electrical switch designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by overcurrent or short circuit. Its essential function is to interrupt the current flow when it detects a fault condition.

The basic principle of operation involves a mechanism that detects an excess of current. This can be achieved through thermal or magnetic means, or a combination of both. In a thermal-magnetic circuit breaker, an overload causes a bimetallic strip to heat up and bend, eventually triggering a switch. A sudden, high surge of current, like that from a short circuit, will activate an electromagnet, which quickly pulls a lever to open the circuit.

When a fault is detected and the circuit breaker trips, it physically separates the electrical contacts, thus breaking the flow of electricity. This prevents overheating of wires, potential fires, and damage to sensitive electrical equipment connected to the circuit.

Unlike a fuse, which is a single-use device that must be replaced after it blows, a circuit breaker can be reset and reused after the fault condition has been identified and rectified. This makes them a more convenient and cost-effective solution for circuit protection in homes, businesses, and industrial settings. They are a crucial safety component in any electrical system.