Definition of a Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker is defined in NEMA standards as a device designed to open and close a circuit

by non-automatic means, and to open the circuit automatically on a predetermined overcurrent without

injury to itself when properly applied within its rating.

A circuit breaker is also defined in ANSI standards as a mechanical switching device, capable of

making, carrying and breaking currents under normal circuit conditions. Also capable of making and

carrying for a specified time and breaking currents under specified abnormal circuit conditions such as

those of a short circuit.

The premise is the same for both definitions and both are accurate, but the wording is quite

different. The same is true with the many types of circuit breakers. Their general purpose is the same, but

there are also a number of significant differences.

The circuit breaker might be applied as an individual item in its own enclosure, or be utilized in

conjunction with a wide variety of other equipment in a common enclosure such as loadcenters,

panelboards and switchboards. Circuit breakers are electromechanical devices made up of a number of

components that work together to open and close the circuit on command. The main function of opening

or closing the circuit is achieved by separating or joining a pair of contacts that are well insulated from the

outside. The contacts serve as the connection point for the wires that enter and leave the breaker. The

rest of the mechanism exists to facilitate the separation and joining procedures and to monitor them.