What is a BS EN 61009 device?

A BS EN 61009 device, also known as a residual current circuit breaker with overcurrent protection (RCBO), is an essential electrical safety device used to protect circuits and individuals from electrical shock hazards and fire risks. It combines the functions of both a residual current device (RCD) and a miniature circuit breaker (MCB) into a single unit.

How does a BS EN 61009 device work?

The BS EN 61009 device constantly monitors the flow of electrical current in a circuit. If it detects any leakage or imbalance between the live and neutral conductors, it instantly trips off the circuit within milliseconds, disconnecting the power supply. This ensures protection against electrocution and prevents damage to equipment caused by electrical faults.

This device is designed to offer advanced protection against two types of electrical faults:

Residual Current Faults:

These faults occur when there is a leakage in the electrical circuit, such as when someone accidentally touches a live wire. The BS EN 61009 device detects this current imbalance and trips off the circuit, preventing electric shocks and potentially saving lives.

Overcurrent Faults:

These faults occur when the current flowing through a circuit exceeds its rated capacity, which can lead to overheating and fires. The BS EN 61009 device has built-in thermal and magnetic components that sense overcurrent conditions and trip off the circuit, interrupting the power supply before any significant damage occurs.

Benefits of using BS EN 61009 devices

BS EN 61009 devices offer several advantages over traditional circuit breakers:

Enhanced Safety:

By combining residual current and overcurrent protection, these devices provide comprehensive electrical safety, minimizing the risk of electrical accidents and fires.

Convenience and Space Savings:

The integration of RCD and MCB functions into a single unit eliminates the need for separate devices, saving installation space and simplifying wiring.

Sensitivity and Selectivity:

BS EN 61009 devices are highly sensitive to even small earth leakage currents, enabling them to quickly detect and react to potential faults. Additionally, they offer selective tripping, meaning only the faulty circuit is disconnected while allowing other circuits to remain operational.

In conclusion, BS EN 61009 devices play a crucial role in ensuring electrical safety by combining residual current and overcurrent protection in a single compact unit. They are reliable, efficient, and offer enhanced safety features compared to traditional circuit breakers. The utilization of these devices can greatly reduce the risk of electric shocks, fires, and damage to electrical equipment.