In the field of electrical safety, the type B residual current device (RCD) has become an essential solution for protecting installations that incorporate advanced electronic equipment. This type of device offers comprehensive protection against various types of leakage currents, including alternating current (AC), pulsating direct current (DC), and smooth DC. Its use is especially recommended in photovoltaic systems, electric vehicle charging stations, frequency inverters, and other industrial applications where complex leakage currents are common.
What is a Type B RCD?
A type B RCD is designed to detect and interrupt the power supply when leakage currents occur that could be dangerous to people or equipment. Unlike AC or A type RCDs, the type B version can detect:
Sinusoidal AC leakage currents up to 1 kHz
Pulsating DC leakage currents
Smooth DC leakage currents
This capability makes it ideal for installations that use electronic devices capable of generating high-frequency or DC leakage currents, such as solar inverters, EV chargers, and variable speed drives.
Note: To learn more about the different types of RCDs and their uses, feel free to read my guide on Types of Residual Current Devices (RCDs).
Common Applications of Type B RCDs
The type B RCD is essential in several settings where electrical safety is a priority:
Photovoltaic Systems: Inverters can generate high-frequency or DC leakage currents, which only a type B RCD can effectively detect.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: During charging, DC leakage currents may occur, making this type of protection necessary.
Variable Speed Drives and Industrial Equipment: These generate complex leakage currents that require the sensitivity of a type B RCD.
Data Centers and Sensitive IT Equipment: Protection against leakage is vital to prevent service interruptions or equipment damage.
Type B RCD from CNC Electric
CNC Electric offers a reliable solution in this field. Their model YCB9RL-63-B is designed to provide effective protection in both industrial and commercial environments.
Key Features:
Poles: 2 and 4
Rated Current (In): 16a, 25a, 32a, 40a, 63a
Sensitivity: 0.03a, 0.1a, 0.3a
Mounting: DIN rail
Standards: Compliant with IEC/EN 61008-1 and IEC/EN 62423
This RCD is ideal for protecting installations where DC or high-frequency leakage currents are a risk, ensuring both user safety and equipment integrity.
Note: For a more detailed classification of RCDs, check out my article on Types of Residual Current Devices.
Conclusion
Choosing the right residual current device is key to ensuring electrical safety in any modern installation. Type B RCDs offer advanced protection against a wide range of leakage currents and are essential in projects involving sophisticated electronic systems. CNC Electric’s model is a solid and reliable option that meets these high safety standards.
If you’re planning a new installation or upgrading one that includes solar inverters, EV charging stations, or industrial equipment, integrating a type B RCD should be a top priority in your protection scheme.
