Fusegear vs circuit breaker , what do you think ?

[Fabien_Mastrot]

Hi,

let's re open a old historical debate between Circuit breaker vs Fusegear .

There are 2 different ways to protect people and electrical installation. 

How do use this different types of devices (Fusegear and/or Circuit breaker) in your application and switchboard ? 

Share your experience and vision .

Thanks

Fabien

[Shawn_M · Accepted solution]

Hello @Fabien_Mastrot 

Here are my thoughts on this very interesting question.

Obviously, they both offer overcurrent protection of electric power distribution systems. Dimensioning is also not a choice criterion: both fuses and circuit breakers are available in a diversity of sizes, ratings,…

The main difference between fuses and circuit breakers is the fact that the fuse is “cut off” by overcurrent while a circuit breaker opens the circuit without damage to itself.

However, I think several other factors/features must be considered:

  > Disconnecting function: if using fuse, you should add a disconnecting device (like switches) while circuit breakers integrate it.

  >Ground Fault Protection function: fuses cannot provide ground fault protection or earth leakage protection while circuit breakers can (considering you’ve selected the right one)

In addition, circuit breakers can embed (without additional devices needed):

 > Adjustable tripping parameters if circuit breaker is equipped (especially electronic with trip unit)

 > Control and Monitoring features

Finally, I guess it depends, also and mainly, on local regulations, cost optimization and of course historical habits…

[RHH · Accepted solution]

Very true!

As part of a panel builder it mainly rely's on what the customer asks.
But sometimes we advice on the use of fuses instead of using circuit-breakers.

This is mostly the case if there is selectivity involved which the breakers chosen for the circuit cannot

or are not fully selective behind eachother, while this is still a wish and demand from the customer.

In any case, we try to use circuit breakers more and more often as they usually just break the circuit instead of cutting itself out like a fuse does (as @Shawn_M already mentioned). Less hassle for the people to get the power back without having to have knowledge of fuses etc.

P.s. fuses do have high kA capacity, especially for 63A and below. This is a big win on the ground of fuses where circuit breakers are getting alot more expensive and bigger to reach the same kA capacity. (Try comparing a Neozed 4P 63A (Din-modulair) to a NSX(m) and you see what I mean)

[jameslandry]

I think the best option depends on the type and size of the application and switchboard, as well as the personal preference and budget. Some experts suggest that a combination of both fusegear and circuit breaker may be the optimal solution, as it can provide the benefits of both devices and compensate for their drawbacks.