Are RCD and circuit breaker the same?

In residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems, Circuit Breaker Rcd are two critical protection devices—but they are far from interchangeable. While both play vital roles in safeguarding electrical infrastructure, their core functions, protection targets, and application scenarios differ significantly. Understanding these distinctions is essential for ensuring comprehensive safety, and Zhejiang C&J Electrical co., ltd. (referred to as C&J Electrical) offers a high-performance RCCB (RCD) solution that sets the standard for reliable residual current protection.

Core Difference: RCD vs. Circuit Breaker

The main difference between a safety switch (or RCD) and a circuit breaker (often referred to as a fuse) is a safety switch protects people from electrical accidents and the circuit breaker protects wiring and electrical systems in your home. This fundamental distinction defines their unique roles in electrical safety:

Feature	RCD (Residual Current Device / RCCB)	Circuit Breaker
Primary Target	Protects people from electric shock	Protects circuits/equipment from damage
Protection Mechanism	Detects current imbalances (leakage) between live/neutral conductors	Monitors overcurrent (overload) and short circuits
Response Trigger	Residual current (as low as 10mA)	Excessive current exceeding safe limits
Key Function	Prevents electric shock by cutting power in milliseconds	Prevents overheating/wiring fires; shields appliances

What is an RCD (RCCB)?

An RCD (Residual Current Circuit Breaker, RCCB) is a life-saving device designed to detect even the smallest leakage of current from the circuit to the earth. In normal operation, current flows equally through the live and neutral wires. If a fault occurs—such as a person touching a faulty appliance—current leaks to the earth, creating an imbalance. The RCD instantly senses this imbalance and trips the circuit, cut out power in as little as 40 milliseconds, preventing severe electric shock or electrocution.

Unlike circuit breakers, RCDs are current-sensitive rather than current-limiting. They do not protect against overloads or short circuits on their own (though some combined devices like RCBOs integrate both functions), but they are indispensable for protecting human life in any electrical system.

C&J Electrical’s CJL3-63 RCD: Key Features & Advantages

C&J Electrical’s CJL3-63 series RCCB embodies the highest standards of residual current protection, with a comprehensive set of features designed for safety, reliability, and versatility:

Core Protection & Functionality

Dual protection: Provides ground fault/residual current protection + isolation function

High short-circuit withstand capacity: Handles up to 10kA breaking capacity, ensuring stability during faults

Contact position indication: Visual status check for easy maintenance and operation

Shockproof connection terminals: Prevents accidental electric shock during installation

Fire-resistant plastic components: Withstands abnormal high temperatures and strong impacts, enhancing durability

Automatic tripping: Instantly disconnects circuits when residual current exceeds rated sensitivity

Voltage independence: Unaffected by external interference or voltage fluctuations, ensuring consistent performance

Technical Specifications

Type options: Electronic or Electromagnetic

Rated current: 6A – 63A

Pole configurations: 1P+N, 3P+N

Leakage current detection types: AC type, A type, B type (covers AC/pulsating DC/smooth DC leakage)

Rated residual operating current: 10mA, 30mA, 100mA, 300mA (30mA is ideal for residential/commercial use)

Installation: 35mm rail mounting (standard for electrical panels)

Compliance & Certifications

Meets IEC61008-1 international standard

Certified with CE, CB, UKCA, and other global safety certifications

Rigorously tested for reliability in diverse operating environments

Versatile Application Scenarios of CJL3-63 RCD

The CJL3-63 RCD is designed for widespread use across residential, commercial, and light industrial settings, including:

Residential buildings: Kitchens, bathrooms, gardens (wet areas with high shock risk), bedrooms, and living spaces

Commercial spaces: Offices, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and shopping malls

Light industrial: Small workshops, warehouses, and equipment rooms

Critical areas: Medical facilities, schools, and public buildings (where human safety is paramount)

Its compact design, multiple configuration options, and high safety performance make it suitable for both new installations and retrofits, integrating seamlessly into existing electrical systems.

Why Choose C&J Electrical’s CJL3-63 RCD?

In the realm of Circuit Breaker Rcd solutions, C&J Electrical’s CJL3-63 RCCB stands out for its:

Human-centric design: Prioritizes personal safety with fast response and shockproof features

Reliable performance: Fire-resistant materials, voltage independence, and high short-circuit withstand capacity

Flexibility: Multiple current ratings, pole configurations, and leakage types to meet diverse needs

Global compliance: Certifications ensure compatibility with international electrical standards

Proven quality: Rigorous testing and long-term durability in real-world applications

Whether you’re designing a residential electrical system, upgrading a commercial building’s safety infrastructure, or seeking a reliable RCD for light industrial use, the CJL3-63 series delivers unparalleled protection.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about product specifications, technical details, customization options, or bulk orders, please feel free to contact C&J Electrical. Our professional team is dedicated to providing tailored solutions to meet your safety needs.

Post time: Dec-17-2025