Conceptualization of an Alternate Mechanism of Moulded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB) To Reduce Reset Force

Abstract

An electro-mechanical device that is used to protect an electric circuit from damage caused by overload or short circuit is used widely and it is known as Moulded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB). This paper deals with the conceptualization of an alternate model for the mechanism used in MCCB. Forces in the mechanism are directly related to friction between the components so, if we manage to reduce the coefficient of friction between the components without affecting its function there is a scope of reducing reset forces of the mechanism. The new model of sub-assembly in MCCB mechanism has a roller contact between the surfaces instead of sliding contact as compared to the existing mechanism. After calculating forces between all the components using rolling friction, it can be concluded that reset force is expected to reduce by 3-4 kilograms.