Surge Protector vs. Circuit Breaker: What’s the Difference?

Circuit breakers or surge protector, these terms may sound pretty “electrical”, which is why most of us are unaware of their roles in the electrical distribution systems and their importance. It is crucial that as consumers of electrical power, we should have a basic understanding of electrical components to remain aware of their functions. Both circuit breakers and surge protectors are protective devices. But where do they differ? What is the unique difference between them that both cannot be neglected? Let us find out more about these.

What Are Circuit Breakers?

In simple words, circuit breakers have one chief function: to prevent the wiring in the electrical system from catching fire. Whenever there is a high electrical current (amp) passing through the wires, they tend to overheat due to rising temperatures, and this causes a fire to start. 

To prevent such incidents, we use a circuit breaker. It is an electrical switch device that operates manually and automatically as well. It interrupts the flow of abnormal flow of current. Circuit breakers have fixed and moving parts. Just as the name suggests, these devices break the circuit so that the harmful current cannot flow and reach the appliances. Circuit breakers have five universal components- frame, operating mechanism, contacts, arc extinguisher, and trip unit. Common types of circuit breakers include- vacuum circuit breakers, air circuit breakers, oil circuit breakers, etc.

What Is A Surge Protector?

A surge protector is also known by several other names as a surge diverter, surge suppressor, spike suppressor, or transient voltage surge suppressor (TVSS). It is nothing but a device that reacts to unexpected and brief over voltage situations. 

Surge protectors are safeguarding devices that shield equipment from unstable voltage conditions. A surge protector tries to manage the voltage supply to an appliance by stopping or shorting it to the ground. It is an essential component as it adds to the longevity of devices. Surge protectors are generally found in power distribution panels, process control systems, communication systems, and other industrial systems. They are vital to prevent accidents and other hazards.

A surge protector can range from simple ones to advanced ones that are complex and also expensive. The costly ones can pack in ten or more electrical outlets, along with additional in and outlines for different types of electronic equipment like phone lines, Ethernet cards, USB power, and coaxial cables. All that stuff is beneficial and could definitely come in use if you plan an elaborate desk or television setup. But if you are looking for genuine protection, you need to pay attention to joule rating. The higher it is, the better.

Schneider Electric India has brought in the latest solutions for electrical protection. Their range of circuit breakers includes the highly durable MasterPact MTZ, MasterPact NT, and MasterPact NW. These Schneider circuit breakers are extensively used for industrial applications as well as residential setups. This global brand also has high-quality and reliable surge protectors. ProtectNet and SurgeArrest are their best-selling surge protectors trusted by many across industries. 

To find more information on Schneider Electric India circuit breakers and surge protectors, visit their website today.