7 Re s i d u a l C u r r e nt D e v i c e s ( R C D )

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 12 7 RCD

Residual Current Devices are essential

items in wiring design. However with the
widespread use of electronic loads,
spurious/intermittent tripping by RCD are
a b a n e f o r t h e d e s i g n e n g i n e e r.

1. Understanding RCD.
2. RCD design for electronic

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Common terms confused with RCD:

RCD – class of protection device measuring residual currents

ELCB – Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker 2 types (i) Voltage ELCB & (ii)
Current ELCB.
IEC coined the term RCD to refer to i-ELCB so as to differentiate it from v-
ELCB

RCCB – Residual Current Circuit Breaker refers to RCD fitted with or to a

circuit breaker e.g. RCD fitted to socket outlet with breaker to
disconnect outlet woul be a RCCD.

RCBO – Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent refers to RCD fitted

with O/C device e.g. RCD fitted to MCB or MCCB.

GFI – term used in North America for RCD.

hplooi@unifi.my 26th May 2011

 14 7 RCD

Types of RCD

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 15 7 RCD

hplooi@unifi.my 26th May 2011

 16 7 RCD

Despite its reputation for protection; the biggest

problem afflicting RCD is spurious tripping.

Most spurious/intermittent tripping can be resolved

either due to choice of RCD or design issues in
network.

Common response:
remove/disable RCD;
Replace with a less sensitive RCD
BOTH METHODS ARE DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE
AVOIDED!
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 17 7 RCD

IEC 62350 – GUIDANCE FOR THE CORRECT USE OF RESIDUAL

CURRENT OPERATED DEVICES (RCDs) FOR HOUSEHOLD AND
SIMILAR USE.

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18 7 RCD

Best Practice RCD

Choose the right RCD for the right
kind of load:
Type A Loads 1, 4, 5, 8

Type AC Loads 8 & 9

Type B Loads 1 - 9

Estimate leakage current of loads

and select sensitivity of RCD