Shunt release for circuit breaker: operating principle, troubleshooting

In every modern unit, which is used as a reliable protective mechanism for electrical networks in the household industry, there must be a circuit breaker with an independent release. The principle of the device of such an element implies the presence of a mechanical connection with the switch. Its main task is to disconnect power grids in a timely manner when exposed to one or another negative factor.

a brief description of

Universal shunt releases are multifunctional units that are always installed with circuit breakers. Most often, such devices are used in the design process of a high-quality ventilation system. A huge advantage is that the releases can be freely operated with a variety of load break switches. Modern manufacturers specialize in the industrial production of those models that are designed for 20, 24 and even 30 A. The design of each unit may vary.

In order for the purchased shunt release to perform all the tasks and not break down, you need to understand the scheme of its functioning. The thing is that such a unit, which is designed for an automated switch, always equipped with a diode rectifier. Manufacturers are accustomed to using powerful dinistors of various capacities. The efficiency of their operation depends on the built-in modulators.

Standard models for phase switches are necessarily equipped with special transceivers. The controlled relay is mounted in the lowest compartment of the structure, which greatly simplifies the operation of the unit.

To protect the consumer from electric shock, experts have provided for the availability of high-quality insulators. Reliable contacts are located above the main modulator. But the transistors are installed parallel to each other. With a standard outer winding, kenotrons are often used, which are fixed behind the modulator.

General device

Each model of the shunt release is presented as a high quality unit used for remote tripping of protective equipment. Such a unit is operated together with modern circuit breakers that have one, two, three or even four poles. Most often, the masters connect the release to the input circuit breaker, and in the event of any emergency, the electrical panel is completely de-energized.

The design of the unit is more like a magnet. When it is affected by a short-term impulse, the device acts with a special lever on the working mechanism, which turns off the automated protective device. Besides, the design provides for the presence of an electromagnetic coil, which can have different power indicators. The product can be designed for direct or alternating current with a voltage of 110-415 V and 12-60 V. It all depends solely on the chosen model. The method of attachment to the machine also depends on the modification.

It is worth noting that the timely operation of the entire system depends on the correct connection of the release with the protective device. The master must comply with all the requirements of the connection diagram. For example, phase conductors should go from the lower phase terminals of the machine.

If this rule is not followed, then this is fraught with premature failure of the installation. When everything is working correctly, the shunt trip circuit breaker is disconnected in a timely manner, and the voltage from the coil of the device completely disappears.

Principle of operation

To protect the household electrical circuit from adverse effects, craftsmen use high-quality modular automated switches. The great demand for such units arose against the background of the fact that they have compact dimensions, and are also easy to install and repair.

Outwardly, such devices are presented in the form of a conventional housing made of heat-resistant plastic. The main on / off button is located on the front surface. On the rear panel there is a snap-on latch for mounting on a DIN rail, and on the bottom and top there are screw terminals.

During normal operating conditions, a current less than or equal to the rated current flows through the unit. The upper terminal receives the supply voltage from the external network (this node is reliably connected to the fixed contact). Further, electricity is supplied to the main thermal release, and after it - to the lower terminal and the load network connected to it. In emergency situations, the circuit breaker disconnects the protected circuit. An independent device is responsible for this function. The reason for such a trigger may be an emergency:

• Overload voltage - short circuit in the circuit.
• The occurrence of overcurrents - an increase in the current strength in the mains, exceeding the rated value of the circuit breaker.
• Voltage drops.

Varieties of the lineup

Many DIYers prefer to use the time-tested shunt releases. Such units operate solely under the influence of voltage, which gradually passes through the main circuit of the circuit breaker. The great popularity of such installations arose against the background of the fact that each master can control the system remotely, which is not provided for in other categories of releases.

An automated switch helps to timely disconnect absolutely all devices and other sources that operate on electricity from the mains. This function is especially important in situations where there is a noticeable voltage deviation in the network from the norm set by the consumer. But it is important to take into account the disadvantages that are associated with the conversion of energy into heat release. The presence of such a factor may be fraught with the fact that the switch will be disconnected in an improper way.

Modern Z-ASA / 230

Manufacturers note the fact that the shutdown of ventilation in the event of a fire through an independent switch of this series occurs extremely quickly. This model is available with high quality mobile modules and six pairs of contacts. Such a device is especially relevant in relation to impulse switches. The unit works well in extreme conditions where high humidity is observed. The device is often used by specialists for remote control. The level of current conductivity is equal to 4.5 microns.

The unit supplies the relay with a voltage of 30 V. The powerful stabilizer is mounted without any adapter. The long service life is due to the presence of dual-type transistors. It should be noted that the kenotron is not provided in this model.

Advanced modifications for 30A

This type of trip unit for the circuit breaker is manufactured with a special code expander. The final indicator of the output voltage is equal to 35 V. The well-coordinated operation of the unit is associated with diode rectifiers. All contacts are mounted on movable plates.

Experts have provided for the presence of transceivers with trimming resistors. Many models in this category are connected to the mains panels via high quality capacitor banks. To prevent the negative impact of unplanned overloads on the network, expansion dinistors are used.

Unit IEK PH47

Experts say with confidence that this release is one of the most demanded. The compactness of this model is of great importance. A secure fit with the flap is ensured by the small condensing units. In addition, the model has only two rectifiers, and all contacts are movable.

The expander itself is located in the lower compartment of the structure along with the relay. The presence of a transceiver is not provided.

Increased attention should be paid to the operating parameters of the shunt release - the output voltage is within 40 V. The maximum network load should not exceed 30 A. In addition, numerous studies have been carried out by manufacturers, which have shown that the minimum release temperature is within -10 ° C. The unit is absolutely not afraid of exposure to high humidity. All wiring is insulated in a special way for safe operation of the device.

Household SHUNT 250 VAC

This model of shunt release is produced on the basis of a diode rectifier located above the relay. Attention should be paid to the operating parameters of the system, which are 44 ohms. The standard overload threshold is 24 A. A miniature capacitor unit is used to connect the modification.

All conductors are equipped with heavy-duty insulators. The unit is equipped with three pairs of resistors at once, securely fixed above the rectifier. Manufacturers have not provided only for the presence of a stabilizer. This makes this model ideal for low-power drives.

Sudden shutdown of the mechanism

Experts have recorded a lot of cases when the trip unit of the circuit breaker tripped. This situation requires a quick response from the master. To prevent negative consequences, experts have identified the main list of reasons that provoke the shutdown of the mechanism:

• Changing the previously set characteristics.
• A sharp drop in voltage in the electrical circuit.
• Failure of machines or an unexpected failure in the system.
• A sharp increase in voltage, a change in the state of the current.

Since there are so many negative factors in the household industry, all modern devices began to be equipped with several working mechanisms at once, which allow you to quickly disconnect the network. They are produced from mechanical, electromagnetic or electronic particles. Rational use of such a release helps to keep all home appliances intact and safe.

Serviceability check

Sooner or later, every master has situations when it is necessary to make sure of the integrity of the releases. This question is of particular interest to amateur installers and novice craftsmen. You can make sure that the unit is working in this way:

• At the initial stage, a visual inspection is carried out, when the master carefully examines the entire box of the unit. It is very important to ensure that the body is intact, and there are no deformations or cracks on it.
• Special attention should be paid to the switch button. It should easily take the required position in any meaning.
• At the next stage, the automatic device is checked for timely disconnection of the network in the event of certain unfavorable conditions. Experts carry out this test on a universal unit, where each stage is carefully monitored. Fine tuning allows you to fix the trip time of the release from the moment the overvoltage is applied.
• At the final stage, it remains only to free the unit from the walls of the case and follow it under the influence of powerful equipment. When current leakage is observed, the plate heats up in a matter of seconds and deforms, which signals the disconnection of the machine lever.

It should be noted that any tests of the operation of the shunt releases for tripping must carried out exclusively in specialized clothing and under the supervision of a qualified specialist.