What Are the Differences Between Shihlin Circuit Breaker Types? How to Choose the Right One for Industrial Electrical Systems
Shihlin Electric Circuit Breaker
How Are the Different Types of Shihlin Circuit Breakers Different? Choose the Right One for Industrial Electrical Systems
Learn about ACB, MCCB, ELCB, RCBO, and MCB, including their key features and suitable applications, to help you choose the right circuit breaker for your electrical system, machinery, and required level of protection.
Main Power Distribution
ACB (Air Circuit Breaker)
For the Main Power Distribution System of Factories
An ACB is designed for large electrical systems and is used as the main circuit breaker in a Main Distribution Board (MDB) to protect against overcurrent, short circuits, and electrical system faults.
Key Features
- Available in Fixed Type and Draw-out Type
- Intelligent Controller (XSIC-A / XSIC-P)
- Supports RS-485 / Modbus RTU Communication
- Overload Protection
- Short-Circuit Protection
- Ground-Fault Protection
- Open-Phase Protection
- Neutral Conductor Protection Available for 4P Models
- Includes Pre-trip Alarm and Field Test Functions
Power Distribution and Machinery
MCCB (Molded Case Circuit Breaker)
For Power Distribution Systems and Machinery
An MCCB protects power distribution systems, machinery, and industrial loads against overcurrent and short circuits, with a wide range of current ratings available.
Key Features
- BM Series : Ics = 50% Icu
- BMA Series : Ics = 100% Icu
- Supports Current Ratings from 10A to 1600A
- Supports AC220–690V
- DC Models Available
Earth-Leakage Protection
ELCB (Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker)
Protection Against Earth Leakage and Electric Shock
An ELCB detects earth-leakage current to help reduce the risk of electric shock and improve electrical system safety.
Key Features
- BL Series for AC Systems
- BMA DC Type for DC Systems
- Supports Time Max
- Adjustable Leakage Current Setting
- 15 / 30 / 100 / 200 / 300 / 500 mA
All-in-One Protection
RCBO
Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent Protection
An RCBO combines the functions of an MCB and an ELCB in one device, providing protection against earth leakage, overcurrent, and short circuits.
Key Features
- Earth-Leakage Protection
- Overcurrent Protection
- Short-Circuit Protection
- Supports Current Ratings from 1A to 63A
- Multiple Leakage Current Ratings Available
- Available in Several Series, Including BHL, BL-BF L, and RPL
Branch Circuits and Small Loads
MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker)
Compact Circuit Breaker for Branch Circuits
An MCB is a compact circuit breaker that protects against overcurrent and short circuits. It is suitable for branch circuits in buildings and machinery.
Key Features
- BHA Series
- BHL / BHL-A Series
- BHR-A Series
- BHZ2 Series
- Supports AC and DC, Depending on the Model
- Models with Overvoltage Protection and Automatic Reset Are Available
Shihlin Circuit Breaker Comparison Table
Compare the main functions, key features, and suitable applications of each circuit breaker type.
| Type | Main Function | Key Features | Suitable Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACB | Main Power System Protection | Intelligent Controller, Communication | MDB, Factories |
| MCCB | Load and Feeder Protection | High Current Capacity; DC Models Available | Machinery, Distribution Boards |
| ELCB | Earth-Leakage Protection | Adjustable Leakage Current Setting | Buildings, Factories |
| RCBO | Earth Leakage + Overcurrent | Combines MCB and ELCB Functions | Branch Circuits |
| MCB | Overcurrent and Short-Circuit Protection | Compact and Easy to Install | Homes, Buildings, Machinery |
Choose the Right Circuit Breaker for Your Application
ACB is suitable for main power systems; MCCB is suitable for feeders and machinery; ELCB focuses on earth-leakage protection; RCBO combines earth-leakage and overcurrent protection; and MCB is suitable for branch circuits and small loads.
Before purchasing, check the number of poles, current rating, operating voltage, short-circuit breaking capacity, and protection type to ensure compatibility with the actual system.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Click a question to view the answer.
Why Choose Shihlin Electric Circuit Breakers?
Shihlin Electric offers internationally recognized quality at a cost-effective price, making it suitable for users who want to reduce costs while maintaining electrical system performance and safety.
How Safe Are Shihlin Electric Circuit Breakers?
The products comply with ISO 9001:2015, CNS 12681:2016, and IEC standards, with protection functions depending on the selected circuit breaker type and model.
Can Shihlin Replace an Existing Model from Another Brand?
Equivalent replacement models can be selected. The number of poles, current rating, voltage, short-circuit breaking capacity, mounting dimensions, and accessories should match the existing system.
Which Industries Can Use These Products?
Suitable for machinery, automotive, food and beverage, textile, packaging, building, infrastructure, hospital, and general electrical control applications.
Request Pricing and Shihlin Circuit Breaker Model Comparison
Send the existing model number, number of poles, current rating, operating voltage, and a photo of the nameplate so our staff can help identify a suitable Shihlin model.
Additional Information
References
The content on this page is based on official Shihlin documents and product pages, including:
- Shihlin Low Voltage Switchgear Catalog
- Shihlin Download Center – Circuit Breaker Catalogs
- Shihlin Thailand – Circuit Breaker Products
- ACB, MCCB, and RCCB / Safety Breaker Product Pages
About Shihlin Electric
Shihlin Electric & Engineering Corporation (士林電機) is a Taiwanese manufacturer of electrical equipment and industrial solutions, founded in 1955.
