The key difference between isolation switch and circuit breaker

2025-05-03 18:06:01

Isolation switches and Circuit breakers both play important protective roles in power systems, but their functions and operating methods differ fundamentally.

Circuit breaker

Automatic protection device

Automatically cut off the circuit when detecting abnormal situations such as overload or short circuit

Provide active fault protection function

Can be operated with electricity

disconnector

Manual operation device

Mainly used for electrical isolation to ensure maintenance safety

Not equipped with automatic protection function

Can only be operated after the circuit is powered off

Core difference

Circuit breakers are automatic protection devices that can actively cut off power in the event of a fault; The isolation switch is a manual safety device used to provide a visible physical isolation point after a power outage. The two are usually used in combination: the circuit breaker is responsible for fault protection, and the isolation switch ensures maintenance safety.

Apply Recommendations

When overload/short circuit protection is required, choose a circuit breaker

Use isolation switches to provide safe isolation during equipment maintenance

Important circuits should be configured with both simultaneously