RCDs - Residual current circuit breakers

Residual current devices (RCDs), also known as residual current circuit breakers, are safety devices that detect fault currents and leakage currents flowing in the conductors and automatically disconnect the circuit. By cutting the power in milliseconds, they help prevent electric shock and limit further damage to equipment and wiring. This is especially important in areas where electrical appliances are used close to people or moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, workshops, and outdoor sockets.

RCDs and residual current circuit breakers are available in different sensitivity levels (for example 10 mA, 30 mA, 100 mA, 300 mA) and rated currents, so you can select the right model for each type of installation. Lower rated devices are typically used for household and light commercial applications, while higher rated versions are suitable for office buildings, workshops, and industrial systems. Properly selected RCDs provide stable protection against earth faults, leakage currents, and faulty circuits, complementing the function of miniature circuit breakers.

Their role goes beyond traditional overcurrent and short‑circuit protection, because they can detect even small leakage currents that do not trip an MCB. This detection capability is crucial in an electrical safety system, as unnoticed leakage current can create dangerous situations, especially in damp environments, outdoor installations, or circuits supplying bathroom outlets and garden equipment.

Using RCDs and residual current circuit breakers is recommended in any electrical network where enhanced safety is required. They not only protect users, but also help preserve the long‑term, trouble‑free operation of connected devices and appliances by reducing the likelihood of serious electrical faults. Correct selection, professional installation, and regular testing of the test button support higher system reliability over the entire service life of the installation.

High‑quality RCDs and residual current circuit breakers are a fundamental part of modern electrical safety concepts. They are indispensable wherever the protection of people and equipment is a priority, from new builds to renovation projects. When choosing, consider key parameters such as rated current, tripping sensitivity, number of poles, breaking capacity, and type (AC, A, F, B), so the device matches the characteristics of the specific network and loads.

In this category you will find a broad range of RCDs and residual current circuit breakers suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial use. The range covers solutions for single‑phase and three‑phase systems, main and sub‑distribution boards, as well as specialised applications like EV charging points or outdoor circuits, where increased protection is particularly important.

When planning or upgrading an electrical installation, integrating the right RCDs is a key step towards a safer, more reliable system. Combined with properly sized circuit breakers, surge protection devices, and quality wiring accessories, they contribute to a coherent protection concept that supports safe, efficient, and long‑term operation of the entire electrical network.