Shunt Trip Breakers: Fundamentals In Electrical Design

Exposure to different components in electrical construction comes fast when engineering electrical systems in small firms. Multiple hats results in touching all elements of the design and construction including panels. I had the fortune of working early on, of designing, and shop building, industrial panels to UL Standard 508 for the automotive industry.

Industrial facilities were the first adopters of custom breakers like shunt trip systems. This quickly followed in the commercial sphere.

What is a Shunt Trip Breaker?

The Basics

A shunt trip breaker is a configuration of circuit breaker with an added mechanism that allows for remote tripping. Unlike standard breakers that trip only when they detect a fault current, shunt trip breakers can be tripped remotely (other locations) through an external electrical signal.

How They Work

Shunt trip breakers consist of the breaker (over current protective device) unit and a shunt trip component addon. This addon is an electromagnet connected to a control switch. When the electromagnet is charged, it triggers the trip mechanism, causing the breaker to open the circuit.

A Tool In Electrical Safety

Preventing Electrical Issues

Shunt trip breakers can prevent fire hazards, electrical shocks, and other risks associated with electrical distribution. The remote configuration makes for quicker response to fire and other threatening situations.

Explainer: How Are Shunt Trip Breakers Different from Standard Breakers? - Unlike standard breakers that rely on internal mechanisms to detect faults, shunt trip breakers can be externally triggered to disconnect power, providing an additional layer of safety and control in electrical systems.

Enhanced Control

Shunt systems provide enhanced control over the systems. In critical environments where fast power shutdown is necessary for safety, shunt trip breakers are an extremely useful advantage.

Applications of Shunt Trip Breakers?

• Fire Suppression: In a fire condition, shunt trip breakers can be integrated with fire alarm systems to shutdown the power, minimizing electrical fire risks.
• Elevator Control: Shunt trip breakers are used in elevators to de-energize the power for life safety, protecting the elevator equipment and its passengers.
• Commercial Kitchens: In kitchens, they can be tied into the gas detection systems to shut off power if gas is detected, preventing explosion events.
• Industrial Settings: Shunt trip breakers are used to quickly disconnect power to machinery during emergency stop situations, or as lockout, for maintenance.

Maintenance Time

Maintenance, including testing the trip function, and inspecting for physical damage, ensures long life and reliability. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance, for safety and warranty compliance.

Factoid: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical failures or malfunctions were factors in an estimated 13% of home structure fires in recent years.

Final Thoughts

Shunt trip breakers represent the continuing advancement in electrical safety. The ability to be remotely controlled makes them an strong component in various applications, from commercial life safety to industrial machinery.

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