Overload, power spikes, short circuit, or ground fault are some of the common electrical faults against which circuit breakers work effectively. In distribution and transmission networks, the protective relays are sufficient. But in the power generation plants where a high magnitude of current flows through the network, specialized equipment is needed. Here, an MCCB or ACB panel won’t withstand the extremely high current. So, a special type of equipment is installed there. Generator circuit breaker manufacturers provide the essential protective mechanism that helps in protecting the expensive setup from damage due to high fault currents.
What is a Generator Circuit Breaker
A generator circuit breaker (GCB) can be considered a switch in the power grid or a bridge between the generator and the step up transformer. These are vital for protecting generators and other critical equipment in power plants. For safe operations, the voltage, frequency, and phase angle must be aligned in the power grid and generator. When all the conditions are within safe limits, the circuit breaker remains closed. As soon as there is any power spike or fault on either side of the GCB, it closes the circuit immediately. The assembly contains a main circuit breaker, a surge arrester, an earthing switch, and a control cubicle.
Key Applications
GCB is a crucial component in all types of power generation plants:
- Coal based
- Natural gas
- Nuclear power plant
- Renewable energy plant
- Hydrothermal power plant
Working Principle of a Generator Circuit Breaker
A generator circuit breaker works by protecting the generator in the power plant and the step-up transformer from heavy electrical faults. It extinguishes the high short-circuit currents. The core circuit breaker contains a chamber where an insulating medium extinguishes the short-circuit current.
Synchronization and Breaking
Apart from fault protection, it allows manual disconnection of the generator from the electrical grid and synchronization between the grid and the generator when the essential parameters are perfectly aligned.
Features of GCB
Being a heavy-duty electrical device, these are the common features in a generator circuit breaker:
- High electrical fault-breaking capacity
- Extreme mechanical endurance
- Quick response mechanism
- Arc interruption technology
- Compact design with accessible parts
Best Generator Circuit Breaker Manufacturer
Ereva Transformers And Switchgear is one of the generator circuit breaker manufacturers, supplying to EPC contractors, utility companies, and power plant operators. Our reputed clientele includes public sector undertakings like SAIL, BHEL, DTL, GAIL, and government sectors like Chhattisgarh State Power Holding Company Ltd., Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd., and Indian Railways. We have partnered with many utility companies to supply them with our electrical solutions made with robust safety considerations.
Conclusion
Circuit breakers in power plants are quite different from the standard ones used in distribution systems. While the objective is to break the circuit to stop the faults from taking a larger shape, the capacity of the generator circuit breaker makes it stand out. The power plant managers trust only the reliable generator circuit breaker manufacturers and suppliers like Ereva Transformers & Switchgear. By sourcing from trusted brands, the companies save their generator and transformers from severe faults.