Square D Breakers
Schneider Electric makes Square D circuit breakers that are renowned for their reliability, sophisticated design, and many uses. They are deployed in residential, commercial, and industrial situations to provide vital protection against a variety of electrical hazards—overcurrents of all types (phase, neutral, earth), short-circuited phases, and certain types of ground faults.
For industrial and commercial applications, Square D offers the reliable PowerPact series of molded case circuit breakers (MCCBs). Engineered to handle higher current loads than typical residential-types, these circuit breakers are built to withstand whatever demand your operation can dish out. Their advanced protection features—part and parcel to many modern load-break devices—make them much safer and more reliable than those older electromechanical relays you might find in an M Loop on a very old control panel.
Among residential circuit breakers, the QO and Homeline series from Square D are some of the most popular. The QO series stands out for its "innovative quick response feature," which swiftly detects when a circuit is in need of protection. And if one does trip, you can see that it did; the physical signs really don't lie! They visually show up as an open breaker (which doesn't carry any electricity) with push-in indicators associated with each pole/circuit .
More Information about Square D Breakers
Another popular line of residential circuit breakers is the Homeline series. Like the QO series, these breakers are also used frequently for their dependability and affordability. The features of a Homeline breaker are very similar to those found in a QO breaker but at an about-half-the-price rate. They’re suitable for new homes, home renovations, and buildings undergoing remodeling or construction.
The Square D range also includes specialty breakers, such as arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). AFCIs are designed to protect against electrical fires. They work by detecting the kind of sudden increase in current associated with an arc fault. GFCIs work by protecting against ground faults—a common cause of electrocution. Both types of breakers are available from Square D.
FAQs
Where can customers purchase or access Square D parts and products?
Customers can purchase or access Square D parts and products through distributors such as RSP Supply.
Is a Schneider circuit breaker the same as a Square D circuit breaker?
No, a Schneider circuit breaker and a Square D circuit breaker are not exactly the same, but Square D is a brand owned by Schneider Electric, meaning Square D breakers are part of Schneider's product line, primarily used in North America with specific designs and standards.
Breakers vs Fuses
Fuses
Fuses are safety devices that are intended to provide protection to both equipment and people in the event of a power surge or an overcurrent situation. A fuse can provide this protection by using a small piece of wire that is sacrificial, and is intended to burn up when too much current is passed through it. When this happens, the fuse eliminates the flow of electricity in that circuit until it is replaced. The size and type of wire that is used in the fuse will dictate how much current can pass through that individual fuse. So the main thing to remember is, when a fuse blows, it must be replaced and cannot be reused.
Circuit breakers
Circuit breakers are intended to be reused after they are “tripped” during a power surge or an overcurrent situation. Much like fuses, circuit breakers are designed to trip at a certain current level. This is intended to protect both equipment and anyone in the area of that particular circuit. Circuit breakers can be found in just about any variation from single phase, low current applications to three phase, and high current applications.
As a general rule: fuses are more simplistic and reliable. They cost less initially and are better suited for individual circuit protection. However, they can create more cost over time with each use and may create hazards due to the exposed connection points. Whereas circuit breakers offer better branch circuit protection and do not need to be replaced after each use. They are more expensive initially and, because of their complexity, are more prone to failure over time.