Some people prefer difavtomats, while others install residual current devices or RCDs. What it is? They cannot be classified as "novelties", however, over the past ten years, the design has undergone significant changes.
Content
Installation of automatic switches allows you to protect the wiring from various mechanical damage and burnout. The unit conducts current through itself in normal mode and disconnects the devices from the network in the event of an overload or other emergency. The selection criteria used are very diverse. The most common characteristics include:
An important aspect is considered to be reviews of the model you like. When choosing, you should also evaluate the popularity of the selected product. The manufacturer is important and it is recommended that the selected brand be on the market for 5 years. The recommendations of specialists are also taken into account.
Over time, the insulation installed on the electrician begins to age. At the moment of short-circuiting the wires, a person can be shocked, provided that the structure has not been grounded. If the wires come into contact with the walls, then electricity leaks can pass through them, which can lead to a fire. Automated protection devices are used at home and are triggered by overloads and leaks. It goes through the structure itself and is measured in "A" - amperes.
A leakage current exceeding the 10 mA mark is dangerous for humans. This limit is ten times less than that to which the automation will react.
Ignition can occur with a leak of 0.3 A or more. It is worth noting that in the event of a short circuit, the RCD will not work, therefore, they are not a full replacement for automation. For complete protection of the electrical network, it is recommended to use differential automatic devices. The choice of automatic circuit breakers is based on the rated current. In terms of sensitivity, RCDs are measured in milliamperes. Their design features are such that shutdown occurs with a leakage of 30 mA or less. For fire protection, this figure increases and is 100-300 mA.
What are the main elements of the device used for a single-phase network:
If the device detects any deviation from normal operation (leakage), the device body detects this. Then the following happens:
It should be noted that such equipment has a modular design. On the back cover of the device, you can find latches and slots for mounting the unit on a DIN rail. Often the design is offered in a plastic case. The material used does not support combustion.
Conventionally, all available protection devices can be divided according to certain parameters. These include:
In order to choose a really high-quality model of equipment, you must first consult with a specialist. Popular models may turn out to be less effective in comparison with budgetary designs of domestic production. However, the most common mistake, according to buyers and specialists, is not a wrongly selected model, but failure to follow the step-by-step instructions for installing the purchased equipment. Self-connecting the product is possible only if you have some experience with this type of equipment. RCDs can be of several types. We propose to consider each of them separately.
Such samples are considered to be "veterans" among the protective equipment. They are able to secure the device against leaks. The patent for it was opened in 1928. It is this type of residual current protection that is considered mandatory in most European countries, and it is installed during the construction phase. The presence of a constant voltage source for the mechanism does not play a special role, since it works great without it.In this case, the source for it will be the leak itself, to which the device reacts.
Repair of such a structure is extremely convenient, because it is based on the reliability and accuracy of mechanics. The magnetic core of the installed transformer has a high sensitivity. It is also responsible for temporal and thermal stability. For its manufacture, amorphous and nanocrystalline alloys are used. They have excellent magnetic permeability.
This type of equipment combines the best qualities of circuit breakers and RCDs. Capable of protecting wiring in the event of a short circuit and overload.
It is not recommended to install diffs on the lines to which office equipment and computers are connected.
An amplifier is installed inside the equipment on a transistor or microcircuit. Thanks to this, the device will react to a small indicator that will pass to the secondary winding. Strengthening it to the size of a small pulse, the relay will start. However, for normal operation of the device, a constant source in the network is required. What is the need to install such a unit in the absence of constant voltage in the network? How can he protect the technique? If a line break occurs due to a breakdown of the neutral conductor in the circuit to the device itself, then it will continue to flow to the electrical devices themselves, which is extremely dangerous for humans.
Detailed reviews of such devices have proven that it is impossible to assemble it with your own hands. You should not try to make a protective device yourself at home. This type of solution can be called the simplest, because the design belongs to the category of portable and is assembled in the form of sockets. Inexpensive models are often used in rooms with high humidity levels (bathroom, kitchen). If necessary, it can be connected in any room to any device. The best manufacturers, in most cases, release them in the form of network adapters that are equipped with a plug connector.
An overview of the instructions will show how easy it is to use the device. Even a child can handle the task. The device is connected directly to the socket, after which the electrical device is connected.
Extension cords equipped with similar functions are considered no less effective. They may have several consumers. There is no consensus as to which device is better to buy.However, if desired, you can find on the market and universal designs that can be used instead of an electrical outlet or connected to it using an extension cord.
This Russian brand tops the rating of quality RCD manufacturers. Focused primarily on domestic stores. In addition to residual current devices, the company is engaged in the manufacture of various equipment that is supplied to both small and large enterprises. A characteristic feature of the structures can be called an acceptable cost. Despite the low price, the product quality is at a high level. The equipment they produce is categorized as available. The world first got acquainted with the company's products in 2007. The quality bar set more than ten years ago is still present today.
Each product offered by them fully complies with the existing European safety requirements. After a series of various technical tests, the goods are transported to Europe. The number of returns is declining every year, and customer confidence only grows. A huge warehouse is located in Yekaterinburg, and another is in Moscow.
The affordable cost of the structure is due to the fact that the assembly is carried out in China. However, this did not affect the quality of the products. The manufacturer claims that the model is designed for 6 thousand cycles. Recovery and disconnection after overheating is carried out no more than 25,000 times.
Average price - 1000 rubles.
One of the new products that topped the ratings of the highest quality RCDs this year. The leak rate is 30 mA. If necessary, the installed structure can be modified. In this case, the indicator will increase to 300 mA. Suitable for both a multi-room apartment and a private house.
The price ranges from 950 rubles. up to RUB 1,500
The manufacturer has been on the domestic market for 75 years. It is engaged in the manufacture of both RCDs and standard machines. New is the “optima” series. Designed for AC and DC designs.
The two-pole design of the RCD, which has a nominal value of 40 A. Normal operation is carried out at 230 V. It has dimensions: 83/36 / 74.3 mm. Used for networks with a frequency of 50 Hz. The neutral in it must be grounded. The rated voltage should not exceed 400 V. It is used to protect a person from possible electric shock when in contact with faulty electrical devices and installations. It is used to prevent fires and fires due to leakage in and short circuits.
The approximate cost is 700 rubles.
The use of such equipment requires a solid earth ground of the applicable electrical circuit. The alternating current frequency will be 50 Hz. It is recommended for installation, first of all, to protect people from possible electric shock. This can happen due to a leakage of the wires or a malfunction of the installed device. Also, the unit is considered an excellent protection against possible fires in wiring and electrical equipment. If necessary, the model easily opens and disconnects the circuit used. Where can I buy? On the manufacturer's website. Such a unit will cost 1200 rubles.
Devices are used to protect electrical appliances from sudden voltage surges. This type of structure fits easily into a regular flap. Has a separate housing (often plastic), which can be covered with a cover. The parameters regarding the current will depend primarily on the series used.
An excellent tool for protecting people from possible electric shock in case of accidental contact with individual current-carrying elements of electrical equipment. An inexpensive and effective device allows you to exclude the fire of equipment due to its malfunction or in the event of a short circuit (to the ground or the case). For normal operation, a nominal voltage of 230-400 V is required. The standard frequency is 50/60 Hz. No energy consumption of its own.
Price - 1300 rubles.
Installation is carried out in multi-room apartments and private houses. The robust plastic housing is not subject to combustion and withstands high temperatures. All necessary levels of protection are applied, which make it possible to use the unit in combination with electrical equipment of any type. Quality product from one of the best domestic firms on the market.
The set will cost the buyer 1600 rubles.
The company's products are assembled exclusively in China. However, this does not in any way reduce the quality score of the goods. Modular devices, rated current 0.5-64 A, have different protection classes. Most models are equipped with special indicator windows for greater ease of use.
The product is of excellent quality. Reliable and safe design. The low cost did not in any way affect the build quality or the efficiency of the unit. Based on the manufacturer's statement, the module will last at least five years without the need for regular user intervention. Standard protection class - ip20.However, it is not recommended to mount the device in those rooms where there is a high humidity indicator (kitchen, basement, bathroom). This will not affect its performance, but its service life will be significantly reduced. A quick installation is within the power of even a beginner. The case is made of high-strength materials that are resistant to temperature fluctuations.
Price - 850 rubles.
It is rightfully considered one of the most successful designs presented by the manufacturer. The maximum indicator of the network is 230 V. The great demand for the model is due to the presence of built-in protection, which is triggered when an emergency occurs. There is additional protection at the conductor connection point. This had a positive effect on the operational life of the kit. The company provides a 5-year product warranty, which is considered more than a high indicator.
The set will cost 800-1200 rubles.
The brand leads numerous ratings largely due to the high wear resistance of its own products, the cost of which is more than acceptable. The switches have a rated power of 0.5 A and a maximum of 63 A. Connection is carried out to 230V and up to 400V networks.
A feature of the product is the presence of TeleRec devices. The relay belongs to the category of automatic charging (re). It is used in the complex after repeated actuation. Thus, it was possible to significantly reduce the costs of subsequent maintenance of equipment of the RCD type. No human intervention is provided for normal functioning. After disabling the protection, the device will automatically make six attempts to re-enable. After that, blocking occurs, and subsequent actions will be carried out in manual mode.
The "test" button is equipped with an orange lever and is adapted in such a way as to completely eliminate the risk of accidental pressing. It has ip20 protection, which is already considered the norm for units of this type. Thus, the person will be protected from possible electric shock by contacting the wires. It is possible to connect conductors whose cross-sections are equal to 35 mm (2x16 mm).
Price: 1500 rubles. and higher.
This brand is rightfully included in the TOP-best manufacturers of electrical protective equipment. It has established itself as a quality and reliable brand, time-tested and proven by numerous clients. More expensive models do not burn out even under constant power surges. Reliable operation for many years speaks in favor of the equipment of this manufacturer. The company has been operating on the market for over a hundred years.
This model is one of the most famous from this brand. In addition to impressive performance characteristics, the device is characterized by reliable operation. High-strength plastic is used for the manufacture of the case. Designed for 15 thousand cycles.
The cost is 2000 rubles. and higher.
Such a unit will come in handy in all, without exception, houses. A quality device at an affordable cost. The current leakage rate is 30 mA. The product is certified, as evidenced by the corresponding document, which is provided to the buyer. This is what speaks about the high quality and safety level of the purchased device.
Price - 3200 rubles.
The model is in demand among modern consumers. Helps to reduce the impact of negative discharge current. Among the features, it is worth highlighting the implemented IT configurations. It should be noted that there are auxiliary fuses that will not allow the device to break down due to overloads. An optical signal type is used. Convenient direct rail mounting has four modules to help save space in the distribution board.
The approximate cost is 24,700 rubles.
The foreign product line is characterized by high quality workmanship and reasonable cost. Mounts on a DIN rail. It reacts to significant voltage surges with almost lightning speed. Nominal indicator: 0.5-63 A.
Modular switchgear that combines maximum safety and efficiency. The design contains the latest innovations and data that have been accumulated over the past fifty years. We are talking about the manufacture of modular devices. Applicable to rooms of any type and size. It is also possible to install in polluted networks and environments where uninterrupted operation of devices is extremely important. The "visitrip" system is used to identify the problem area.
Which company is better to buy an RCD for home? Only a proven one. This is exactly what Schneider Electric belongs to. Installation is carried out both on the territory of private estates and industrial sites. This type of device is able to protect equipment from lightning strikes. It works in conjunction with three-phase networks, in which the level of the rated voltage is equal to 400 V. The indicator of the discharge current is 20 kA. Such characteristics testify to the durability and high quality of the equipment used.
The cost of the kit will be 9400 rubles.
It should be noted that quality equipment is marked on the case. There should be no scratches, chips or chipping. Also, the kit should contain a connection instruction and a device passport.