Which type of electrical fault is a molded case circuit breaker primarily designed to protect against?

A molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) is specifically designed to provide protection against both overload and short circuit conditions. When currents exceed the designed limits, an overload causes excessive heat that can potentially damage wiring and equipment. The MCCB will trip to interrupt the current flow and prevent damage.

On the other hand, short circuits occur when there is a low-resistance connection between two conductors, allowing a very high current to flow. This condition can create significant risks, including fire hazards or immediate damage to electrical components. The MCCB is engineered to detect this sudden increase in current and respond quickly by tripping the circuit.

Because of its dual functionality in protecting against these two common electrical faults—overload and short circuit—the molded case circuit breaker's design ensures that it can safeguard electrical systems effectively, allowing for safe operation and minimizing the risk of damage or fire in the event of electrical faults.