Circuit Breakers

About Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers protect electrical circuits from overcurrent and short-circuit conditions by interrupting current when a defined limit is exceeded. Unlike single-use fuses, many circuit breakers can be reset after the fault is cleared. Products in this category include thermal, magnetic and thermal-magnetic designs for power supplies, industrial controls, transportation equipment, communications systems and other electrical or electronic assemblies.

Choose a circuit breaker by checking rated current, operating voltage, number of poles, trip curve and interrupting capacity. Confirm whether the application requires AC, DC or dual-rated operation, and review terminal style, mounting method, reset mechanism and available auxiliary contacts. Ambient temperature, inrush current and continuous-load derating can affect trip behavior. Also verify insulation ratings, mechanical and electrical endurance, applicable UL, IEC or other approvals, and the exact manufacturer part number before procurement.