How to Read MCB Nameplate Data Rating Printed on it?

Electrical Technology 08/01/2015 Controlling, EE Instruments/Devices &Components,

Electrical & Electronics Notes and Articles, Electrical Wiring (Basic for Home), How To,
Protection 12 Comments 51,239 Views
How to Read MCB Nameplate Rating?
MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) is very common protection device (Such as fuse) used in
domestic and industrial wiring and application and most of us have tried to buy MCB. It is very
important device, which is to be procured with care.
But when we use to visit shops or take advice of our “expert” electrician then in most of time,
without any technical consideration they advise for a particular brand. For us, especially who is
not from electrical background, it is very tough to understand technical points of MCB.
We just see the MCB rating and buy it. It is really a wrong practice. Your electrician or
shopkeeper may be suggesting you the right product but you also should know about it while
purchasing.
Deciding MCB is very simple. Most of the data is generally printed on a MCB. Only few local
companies hide information and you can easily ignore them. We would like to tell you about
printed information of MCB.
Also read: ELCB, RCB and RCD Circuit Breakers
Model Number.: All reputed manufacturer has a particular code of each device type. It will be
very easy to communicate with seller or manufacturer, if you quote the model no., in case of any
service complaint.
MCB Current and Curve Rating: As shown in example, it is mentioned C20 (and in the below
image, it is B25). First letter is showing the characteristics curve. There are three characteristics
curves (In common use) available- B C & D. B curve indicates that short circuit rating of device
is in range of 3-5 times of standard rated current (Which means, TIME for Trip initiation i.e. the
less rating of the the time will be Fast acting, like for protecting sensitive Electronics devices and
equipment). C curve indicates it to be 5-10 times and D curve indicates it to be 10-20 times. Be
very careful while selecting this. On a resistive load (say heater, normal lighting load) it will B
Curve, for inductive load (Like pump, Motors etc.) it will be C curve and for highly inductive or
capacitive load it will be D curve. The numeral part indicates rating of MCB in Ampere. In the
given example it is 20A. MCB rating is very important and be very precise about it.
C60 circuit-breaker
B, C and D curves,
as in standard AS/NZS 4898
The operating range of the magnetic release is as follows:
 c for B curve: between 3 In and 5 In
 for C curve: between 5 In and 10 In
 for D curve: between10 In and14 In
The curves show the cold thermal tripping limits when poles are charged and the
electromagnetic tripping limits with 2 charged poles.
Operating Voltage: It is in Volts and is the operational voltage for which current rating is said.
In three phase it is usually 400V or 415 V. For single phase it is 230V or 240V. Choose as per
your application only.
MCB Breaking Capacity: Breaking capacity can be defined as the maximum level of fault
current which can be safely cleared. It is written as in numerals like in in example it is 10000. It
means it 10000A = 10kA. Choose breaking capacity as per your fault level possible. Since it is
the parameter which may increase or decrease the cost, so it should be properly decided.
Breaking capacity should be higher than the possible fault level. For domestic application where
fault level cannot be calculated easily, it advisable that go for a standard breaking capacity of
10kA which is easily available. Please note that this rating is mentioned as per testing made on
basis of IS 60898. If it is for IEC60947-2 then it need to be mentioned separately.
Energy Class: MCB normally work on current limiting feature. It means that it does not allow
fault to get it’s peak and trip before that. But since there is some time consumed in tripping, fault
current will create some energy which will exist in system. This energy is termed as let through
energy. For efficient MCB operation it should be limited. On basis of amount of energy it is
classified in class 1, class 2 and class 3. Here Class 3 is best which allows maximum 1.5L
joule/second. This is being tested as per IS 60898.
Status Indicator: It shows the ON-Off Indication while in operation. Never buy an MCB which
don’t have clear status indicator because serious damage may be occurred with ON-OFF
confusion of the device.
Operation Symbol: This is always printed by any good manufacturer. This shows operation
mechanism of MCB.
Additional Relevant Information : Information like Impulse voltage, ISI marking etc are
usually printed on side of MCB. However there are many parameters on which quality of MCB
should be judged but aim of this blog is to make you aware of printed information on MCB.
Catalog No: Most of the MCB manufactures put the catalog number of the MCB products. This
code provide the overall information on the manufacture website such as MCB specification and
Datasheet ect.
Also read: Wiring of the Distribution Board with RCD.
Below is the typical MCB nameplate rating data which shows the most important information
printed on it.
These are generally:
Product Modal No
Max Current Rating: (6, 10, 16, 20, 25, 32, 40, 60, 63 etc)
Operation Symbol
Breaking Capacity Type
Breaking Capacity (Max Short Circuit Current)
Operating Voltage(230V, 400V, 440V)
Tripping Curve Type
Energy Class
ON-OFF Indication
Catalog No
P.S: Printing of MCB data may be placed as per the convenience of manufacturer. Model No. of
every manufacturers are of different style. No standard definition format used but translated in
easy words for easy understanding. for proper and more information related to MCB rating
nameplate, use the provided Datasheet by the manufacturer of that MCB(s).
You may also read:
GFCI: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. Types & Working
Important Terms and Definitions related to Motor Control and Protection
High Inrush Current in Capacitor Switching and Ways to Prevent It.
Fault Current Limiter and Their Types
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB): Construction, Operation, Types and Uses

ELCB, RCB and RCD Circuit Breakers

Electrical Technology 11/05/2014

Difference Between ELCB, RCB and RCD Circuit Breakers

ELCB: Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker

ELCB stands for “Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker” and it is used for protecting a person from
electric shock and injury. The needs of these devices arise because of the number increasing in
injuries as well as deaths because of electric shock. This device is invented almost 50 years ago,
but nowadays ELCB is not suitable because of its some disadvantages hence another device RCB
(Residual circuit breaker) or RCD (Residual Current Devices) whose functionality is same with
more advantages, but theory of operation is entirely different from ELCB.

Also read:

Difference Between MCB & MCCB? Which one should I go for & why?
How to Read MCB Nameplate Rating Printed on it.

ELCB Construction:
It is international standard that each electronics device enclosure should be earthed. So, there
would be no chance of electrocutions. For proper operation of ELCB, its need to bury a metallic
rod deep in the soil and ELCB is connected between the wire coming from the rod to the wire
attached to the external metallic body of the Electrical device or you can say that ELCB is

connected to the Earth wire. Also

Read:
Wiring of the Distribution Board with RCD
Wiring of the Distribution Board without RCD

ELCB Operation:
When the live wire (accidentally) touches the metallic body of the connected device or
appliance, then there is potential generated between the earthed rod and the metallic enclosure of
that device. The circuitry (inside the ELCB) senses the potential difference and when this
potential difference reached at 50volt then ELCB cuts off the main supply from the connected
device. This way it ensures the safety of the human beings.
However, it is not used widely nowadays because of its some major disadvantages which are

Disadvantages of ELCB:
Without proper earth connection, ELCB will not work. If the wire attached to the earthed rode is
loose or broken, then ELCB would not able to sense the potential hazardous voltage on the
metallic body of the electrical/electronic device.
ELCB is attached between earthed wire and metallic body of the electrical appliances. But there
are many other parallel paths for the currents to flow from the connected device body to earth
without going through earthed wire. E.g. there are many metallic pipes in the house, which can
provide a parallel path for the current to flow towards the earth. In this way, sometime ELCB is
not able to detect the hazardous voltage on the metallic body of the device, which may cause
serious injury.
If someone gets in touch with live phase wire, ELCB will not Trip because in this case, there will
be no current flow in the earth wire. In fact, current is flowing from the live wire to earth through
the person’s body.
When a live wire comes in contact with neutral wire, short circuit will occur, hence, ELCB will
not trip because there will be no current in the earth wire.
There are many cases in which, there is a current flow in the earth wire, but the situation is not
hazardous in such cases, but it gives false trip e.g. lightening strike, current starts flowing in the
earth wire and ELCB trips.
To overcome with the above disadvantages of ELCB, another Device named Residual Current
Breaker (RCB) is invented to use for earth leakage protection.

RCB and RCD

Residual Current Breaker (RCB):

Residual Current Breaker (RCB) works on the assumption that the current going to the
electronics device must come out from the neutral wire, if there is no other way for current flow.
In simple words, RCB measures the current going inside the connected device and coming out
from the device. If both of these current are equal, then there would no problem with the normal
functionality of the device.
This device is also known as Current Operated ELCB.
This device is more sensitive and accurate than ELCB and its functionality does not (entirely)
depend on the earthed rode wire connection like voltage ELCB.

Working of RCB or Current Operated ELCB:

The polarity of the phase winding and the neutral winding is opposite in normal condition.
Therefore, EMF generated by the phase wire cancels out by the EMF of the neutral wire. If there
is a difference in the incoming and outgoing currents, then the resultant EMF will not be zero
and can be sensed by the CT of RCB. The signal from the RCB current transformer is fed to the
RCB circuit and it opens the main power contacts.

Advantages of RCB:
1) If there is no connection between the ground and the enclosure of the device, and a person
touches the metallic body of that device. In this case, incoming and outgoing current will be
different and RCB will Trip in contrast with ELCB.
2) Functionality of RCB (Residual Current Breaker) does not effect by lightning strikes.
3) It does not trip falsely.
You might also read:
Single-Phase Electrical Wiring installation in a Multi-Story Building
Three Phase Electrical Wiring in Home (How to Connect Loads in Single Phase & three
Phase Supply System)
Three-Phase Electrical Wiring installation in a Multi-Story Building

Wiring of the distribution board , Single

phase, from Energy meter to the main
distribution board (Without RCD = Residual
Current Devices)
Wiring of the distribution board , Single phase, from Energy meter to the main distribution board
(Without RCD = Residual Current Devices)
Note: here you can read this wiring diagram with RCD = Residual Current Device
Wiring of the Distribution Board with RCD , Single Phase, (from Energy Meter to the
main Distribution Board) Fuse Board Connection.
Wiring of the distribution board , Single phase, from Energy meter to the main distribution
board (Without RCD = Residual Current Devices)
Click image to enlarge

1)
DP = Double Pole MCB (The main switch)
This allows you to turn off and on the electric supply to your home because this is the main
operating switch to control electric supply. remember that immediately switch off the main
switch in emergency i.e. in electric shock, fire or while working on main board. You can use
also multiple mains switch if you has more supply unit i.e storage heater etc. so then use a
separate Fuse board.
2)
Circuit Breakers
Circuit breaker is a device which switch off and on electric supply at normal ( and abnormal)
condition). These are automatic protection devices in the Main switch board or fuse-box that
switch off a circuit if they detect a fault. the size of the fuse and Circuit Breaker are similar, but it
give more and more protection. You can reset it again if the trip ever.
Note:here you can read this wiring diagrame with RCD = Residual Current Device
Wiring of the Distribution Board with RCD , Single Phase, (from Energy Meter to the
main Distribution Board) Fuse Board Connection.
You may Also read
Single-Phase Electrical Wiring installation in a Multi-Story Building
Three Phase Electrical Wiring in Home (How to Connect Loads in Single Phase & three Phase
Supply System)
Three-Phase Electrical Wiring installation in a Multi-Story Building
Wiring of the distribution board , Single phase, from Energy meter to the main distribution board
(Without RCD)
Electrical Wiring

Wiring of the Distribution Board with RCD ,

Single Phase, (from Energy Meter to the
main Distribution Board) Fuse Board
Connection.
Wiring of the Distribution Board with RCD , Single Phase, (from Energy Meter to the
main Distribution Board) Fuse Board Connection.
Note: here you can read this wiring diagrame with RCD = Residual Current Device
Wiring of the distribution board , Single phase, from Energy meter to the main
distribution board (Without RCD = Residual Current Devices).
Click Image to enlarge
Main Distribution Board or Fuse Boards
Main Distribution Board or Fuse Boards ( Consumer Unit) usually contains three things.
They are:
DP = Double Pole MCB (The main switch)
RCD (Also DP) Residual Current Devices.
SP = Single Pole MCB ( Circuit Breakers and Fuses)
it is used to control and distribute electric supply (safely to electrical appliances) around your
home
1)
DP = Double Pole MCB (The main switch)
This allows you to turn off and on the electric supply to your home because this is the main
operating switch to control electric supply. remember that immediately switch off the main
switch in emergency i.e. in electric shock, fire or while working on main board. You can use
also multiple mains switch if you has more supply unit i.e storage heater etc. so then use a
separate Fuse board.
2)
RCD (Also DP) Residual Current Devices.
A (RCD) residual-current device, or (RCCB) residual-current circuit breaker , is an electrical
wiring device or switch that disconnects or trip a circuit whenever it detects that the electric
current is not balanced between the energized conductor and the return neutral conductor. And
then instantly disconnect the electricity (in dangerous conditions).
3)
Circuit Breakers
Circuit breaker is a device which switch off and on electric supply at normal ( and abnormal)
condition). These are automatic protection devices in the Main switch board or fuse-box that
switch off a circuit if they detect a fault. the size of the fuse and Circuit Breaker are similar, but it
give more and more protection. You can reset it again if the trip ever.

Difference Between MCB & MCCB

According To IEC Standards
Electrical Technology 11/11/2015

MCB or MCCB – Difference in IEC Standards (IEC 60898-1 & IEC 60947-2)

Table of Contents [Hide]

MCB or MCCB – Difference in IEC Standards (IEC 60898-1 & IEC 60947-2)
Main Difference between MCB and MCCB
What is MCB?
What is MCCB?
Should I go for MCB or MCCB?
Difference between IEC 60898-1 and IEC 60947-2
IEC60898-1 :
IEC60947-2 :
Comparison Between IEC 69896-1 & IEC 60947-2
Difference between ICS & ICU in term of Circuit Breakers.

Circuit breakers are installed and used for safety purposes in both residential as well as
commercial and industrial areas. In power distribution, we need circuit breakers at different
levels. Depending on the current carrying capacity, breaking capacity and other functions, we
select a suitable circuit breaker according to our needs i.e. VCB, ACB (Air Circuit Breaker),
MCCB and then MCB , this is common hierarchy being followed in power distribution system.

Main Difference between MCB and MCCB

Also read: Difference between ELCB, RCB and RCD Circuit Breakers

What is MCB?

MCB:

MCB stands for “Miniature Circuit Breaker”.

Rated current under 100 amps.
Interrupting rating of under 18,000 amps
trip characteristics may not be adjusted
Suitable for low current circuits (low energy requirement), i.e. home wiring.
Generally, used where normal current is less than 100 Amps.

What is MCCB?

MCCB:

MCBB stands for “Molded Case Circuit Breaker”.

Rated current in the range of 10-2500 amps.
Thermal operated for overload and & Magnetic operation for instant trip in SC (Short circuit
conditions)
Interrupting rating can be around 10k – 200k amps.
Suitable for high power rating and high energy i.e. commercial and industrial use.
Generally, used where normal current is more than 100 Amps.

Should I go for MCB or MCCB?

Now the question is that for a situation, where standard current carrying capacity needed is 100A
with breaking capacity of 15KA, what should be used? An MCB or an MCCB? We assume cost
is not very different.

Both are in moulded case and having almost similar features especially when we are comparing
with fixed thermal setting option of MCCB and they are classified as low voltage circuit
breakers. For magnetic setting, we can select MCB as per curve and MCCB will have either
fixed setting or can be adjusted.

So what is the criteria to make a selection of MCB or MCCB? Space can be a point of
consideration as MCBs are more compact but it doesn’t make a big point as bigger size of
MCCB brings many advantages too like better fault clearing mechanism. keep in mind that both
MCB & MCCB are low voltage circuit breakers and created to respond to IEC 947 standards
(We are going to discuss these standards below)

Actually there is difference in standards they follows. An MCB is supposed to function in

accordance to IEC 60898-1 (Unless mentioned otherwise) and so is tested accordingly. While an
MCCB is tested in accordance with IEC60947-2. So to understand the difference between MCB
and MCCB we need to get a brief idea of these two standards.

Difference between IEC 60898-1 and IEC 60947-2

IEC60898-1 :

It defines behavior of circuit breaker having rated operational voltage not exceeding than 440V
(between Phases), Rated current not exceeding than 125A (We have range 0.5A-125A) and rated
short circuit capacity not exceeding than 25KA ( Usually it is 10KAin MCB). This is designed
for unskilled user (or say uninstructed user) and for devices not being maintained consequently.
Also pollution degree covered is zero pollution to maximum pollution (degree 2). These are the
circuit breakers we find in residential homes, shops, school & offices electrical distribution
switchboards.

IEC60947-2 :

This standard applies to circuit-breakers, the main contacts of which are intended to be
connected to circuits, the rated voltage of which does not exceed 1000 V a.c. or 1500 V d.c.; it
also contains additional requirements for integrally fused circuit-breakers. It covers very high
range of standard current carrying capacity (We have range of 6A-6300A) and meant for skilled
user. The device is also supposed to be maintained properly. Also pollution degree is to be 3 or
more. These circuit breakers are industrial applications and protect the power distribution of up
to 1000 volts AC. and 1500 volts DC. (For MCBs, MCCBs & ACBs)
So it is clear that these items are different in their fundamentals. An MCB designed for indoor,
pollution-free conditions and would not be suitable for harsh, outdoor applications that require
pollution degree 3.

Typically, IEC 60898-1 certified Circuit Breakers meet minimally required performance to proof
proper protection of household installations: Pollution degree 2, impulse voltage 4kV, isolation
voltage is the same as nominal voltage 440V. That is the reason why usually we meet limited
number of technical information printed on Circuit Breakers.

It is not necessary that Circuit breakers certified with IEC 60898-1 can’t be certified with IEC
60947-2, but for sure any manufacturer need to obtain certification. Rating of same MCB can be
different for different standards, so, it is highly recommended to check the data properly printed
on it.

So, the application and needs will decide that which device is to be used or selected.

Comparison Between IEC 69896-1 & IEC 60947-2

MCB Characteristic IEC 60898-1 IEC 60947-2

Rated Current: In 6 – 125A 0.5 – 160A

SC Breaking Capacity <25kA <50kA

Rated Voltage: Ue 400V 440V, 500V, 690V

Impulse Voltage: Uimp 4kV 6kV – 8kV

Pollution Degree 2 3

Curves B,C,D B,C,D,K,Z,MA

Application Current AC AC or DC

Electrical Auxiliaries No Monitoring Control

How to select MCB or MCCB at different circuit levels?

well. As we have cleared everything in the above sections as well as, the MCB nameplate rating
data also give an appropriate information, but the choice of MCB or MCCB is based on certain
factors and conditions like;

ICS as a % from ICU. (See Difference between ICS & ICU in term of Circuit Breakers)
Maximum Operating Voltage
Insulation voltage
Mechanical operation ( endurance and durability)
Breaking Capacity for each Operating Voltage

by the way, it depends on your needs and requirement for what you want to install. Many other
different factors affect the situation, So you will have to read the next article below as we have
added some simple calculation and formulas for MCB installation & selection for Electrical
Wiring.

Residential
IEC 60898-1
Buildings

Commercial
IEC 60898-1 or IEC 60947-2
Buildings

Industries IEC 60947-2

Anyhow, You will have to read the next article about the proper selection of MCB 0r MCCB
according to your needs.

Difference between ICS & ICU in term of Circuit Breakers.

ICS = Service Braking Capacity (means, Circuit breaker can remove the fault, but it may not be
usable afterwards.)

ICU = Ultimate Braking Capacity (means, Circuit breaker can remove the fault and remain
usable)

Rated characteristics of Electrical Contactors

Electrical Technology 07/24/2014

Rated characteristics of Electrical Contactors

Click image to enlarge
 1. Types:
(i) Electromagnetic
(ii) Electro-pneumatic
(iii) Pneumatic
Important Terms and Definitions related to Motor Control and Protection
2. Interrupting Medium:
(i) Air
(ii) Oil
(iii) SF6 gas
(iv) Vacuum
Abnormal Operating Condition and Causes of Induction Motors
3. Rated values of voltages:
(i) Rated voltage (Operational voltage)
For a three phase contactors, the voltage between phases is called rated voltage or operational
voltage. (ii) Rated Insulation Voltage The voltage, on which performs the dielectric test.
The Star-Delta (Y-Δ) 3-phase Motor Starting Method by Automatic star-delta starter with Timer.
4. Rated Values of Current:
(i) Rated Thermal Current
The maximum current, on which a Contactor operates continuously for eight (8) hours without
increasing the temperature (increased with a permissible limit).
(ii) Rated Operational Current
A Manufacturer tells the rated operational current considering Contactor’s rated frequency,
operational voltages, rated duty and utilization factor.
Main Difference between contactor and Starter.
5. Rated duty and Serves Conditions:
(i) Eight Hours Duty
A Contactor can carry the normal current for more than 8 hours. The contactor’s rated thermal
current can be found by 8 hours duty.
(ii) Uninterrupted duty
A Contactor can be close for a long time (from 8 hours to many years) without interruption.
However, Due to Oxidation and dust on contacts, Temperature may be increased.
(iii) Contactor’s making Capacity
Contactor’s rated making capacity is the value of current, on which the contacts of contactor can
make the connections (i.e. Contactor can close their contacts) without arcing or melting. A.C
contactor’s making capacity is defined according to the Current Symmetrical Component’s
R.M.S value.
(iv) Contactor’s Breaking Capacity
Contactor’s rated breaking capacity is the value of current, on which the contacts of contactor
can break the connections (i.e. Contactor can open their contacts) without arcing or melting. A.C
contactor’s breaking capacity is defined according to the Current R.M.S value.

if you found the post”Rated characteristics of Electrical Contactors ” Then please share with
your friends. Thanks

Main Difference between contactor and

Starter.
Electrical Technology 02/08/2012
Main Difference between contactor and Starter
The magnetic starter is very similar to the magnetic contactor in design and operation. Both have
the feature of operating contacts when the coil is energized. The important difference between
contactors and starters is the use of overload heater element in the starter. (For protect the
motor from over heating or over load protection

Important Terms and Definitions related to

Motor Control and Protection
Important Terms and Definitions related to
Motor Control and Protection
Electrical Technology 07/20/2014 Controlling, Electrical Wiring (Basic for Home), Motors,

Important Terms and Definitions related to Motor Control and Protection

Below are the basic and important terms related to Three phase motor control and protection and
you must know for understanding and reading the control diagrams of three phase motors. There
are lots of terms but we will define the most important and related to the topic.

Click image to enlarge

Following are the important terms related to Motor Control and Protection

Electromagnetic Contactor

A contactor, in which the main contacts close and open through electromagnetic effect.

Electro-pneumatic Contactor
This is a contactor in which force provides for opening or closing the main contact through the
electrically operated pneumatic device.

Main Circuit

Current flows from supply to the load through main circuit. This circuit is designed for closing or
opening the conducting parts of the contactor.

Main Contact

When a Contactor is in Close position, then main contacts in the main circuit are responsible to
carry the load current

Control Circuit

That circuit which is designed for the closing or opening operation of the contactor. This circuit
is electrically energized or de-energized normally.

Auxiliary Circuit

As the name indicates, this is another circuit except main and control circuit i.e. auxiliary circuit.

Make Contact

That Control Contact, which closes when main contact closes.

Break Contact

That Control Contact, which opens when main contact closes.

Abnormal Operating Condition and Causes

of Induction Motors
Abnormal Operating Condition and Causes of Induction Motors
Three phase induction motors are used on a large scale in industries. We may divide the
abnormal conditions and causes of three phase motor this way.
Click image to enlarge
 Abnormal Operating Condition and
Causes of Induction Motors (Photos by Siemens)

following are the Abnormal Operating Condition and Causes of Induction

Motors
Mechanical Overload
Block the pump or gear system connected with motors
Damaged bearings or No Lubrication
Lock rotor or more time to starting the motor
Stalling the motor (When motor does not start due to heavy load)
In this case, motor is disconnected from supply as well as from mechanical load. After that,
motor is started to satisfy the mechanical overlord condition.
Abnormal Supply Conditions
Low Supply Voltage
Unbalance supply voltage
Increase in Supply Voltage
Low Frequency (than normal frequency)
Faults in Supply Circuit
Not availability of three phases
Short circuit in supply cable
Damaged links of the contactor
Melted Fuse
Internal Faults in Motor
Phase to Phase faults
Phase to Earth faults
Open Circuit
Bad Insulation of The motor windings (in this case, motor is checked with megger)

Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter

with Timer
Electrical Technology 02/08/2012

Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with Timer

The Star-Delta (Y-Δ) 3-phase Motor Starting Method by Automatic star-delta

starter with Timer.

One line Diagram of Simple Contactor circuit.

A Simple Circuit Diagram of Contactor with Three Phase Motor.

Abbreviations: ( FOR Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with Timer)

R , Y, B = Red, Yellow, Blue ( 3 Phase Lines)

C.B = General Circuit Breaker

Main = Mai Supply

Y = Star

Δ = Delta

1a = Timer

C1, C2, C3 = Contatcors (For Power & Control Diagram)

O/L = Over Load Relay

NO = Normally Open

NC = Normally Closed K1 = Contactor (Contactor coil)

K1/NO = Contactor Holding Coil (Normally Open)

Automatic Star Delta Starter with Timer Wiring & Installation Diagram

Explanation of the above Star Delta Automatic Starter with Timer Wiring Installation:

From the left you have the Main Contactor with the Pneumatic Timer because your Main
Contactor is always energized, in the Middle you have the Delta Contactor with a Thermal
Overload for Motor Protection in case the Motor exceeds the Amp rating set on the Thermal
Overload, on the right you have the Star Contactor which is the first Contactor to be energized
with the Main Contactor then when the Timer reaches its Time limit the Star Contactor de-
energizes and the Delta Contactor energizes and the Motor is running at full load.

Three Phase Motor Connection STAR/DELTA Without Timer Power & Control Diagrams
Control 3-Phase Motor from more than Two buttons Power & Control Diagrams

Operation and Working Principle of Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with
Timer:

From L1 The phase current flows to thermal overload contact through Fuse, then OFF Push
button, On Push button Interlocking Contact 2, and then C3. This way, the circuit is completed,
as a result;

Contactor coil C3 and Timer coil (I1) is energized at once and the motor winding then
connected in Star. When C3 is energized, its auxiliary open links will be closed and vice versa
(i.e. close links would be open). Thus C1 Contactor is also energized and Three Phase Supply
will reach to the motor. Since winding is connected in Star, hence each phase will get √3 times
less than the line voltage i.e. 230V. Hence Motor starts safely.
The close contact of C3 in the Delta line opens because of which there would be no chance of
activation of contactor 2 (C2) .
After leaving the push button, Timer coil and coil 3 will receive a supply through Timer contact
(Ia) , Holding contact 3 and the close contact 2 of C2.
When Contactor 1 (C1) is energized, then the two open contact in the line of C1 and C2 will be
closed.
For the specific time (generally 5-10 seconds) in which the motor will be connected in star, after
that the Timer contact (Ia) will be open (We may change by rotating the timer knob to adjust the
time again) and as a result;

Also read;

(I) Starting & Stopping of 3-Phase Motor from more than One Place Power & Control
diagrams

(ii) (ON / OFF Three-Phase Motor Connection Power & Control Schematic and Wiring
Diagrams)

Contactor 3 (C3) will be off, because of which the open link of C3 will be close (which is in the
line of C2) thus C2 will also energize. Similarly, When C3 off, then star connection of winding
will also open. And C2 will be closed. Therefore, the motor winding will be connected in Delta.
In addition, Contact 2 (which is in the line C3) will open, by which, there would not be any
chance of activation of coil 3 (C3)
Since the motor is connected in Delta now, therefore, each phase of the motor will receive full
line voltage (400V) and the motor will start to run in full motion.

Also Read;

Main Difference between contactor and Starter.

A simple circuit diagram for understanding the Working of contactor.
Why We Need to Install a Starter with a Motor?

Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with Timer Power Circuit Diagram:

Click image to enlarge

Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with Timer Power diagram
Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with Timer Control Circuit Diagram:

Click image to enlarge

Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with Timer Control Diagram

Advantages of Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with Timer

Simple Design and Operation

Comparatively cheaper than other voltage controlling methods
Torque and Current performance of the Star delta starter is well.
It draws two times starting current of the FLA (Full Load Ampere) of the connected motor.
It reduced the starting current to one-third (approximately) as compared to DOL (Direct ON Line
Starter)

Also read:

Three Phase Motor Connection Reverse and Forward Power and Control wiring
diagrams
Two Speeds One Direction Three Phase Motor Connection Power and Control
Diagrams
2 Speeds, 2 Directions Multispeed 3-phase Motor Power & Control Diagrams

Disadvantages of Star Delta 3-phase Motor Automatic starter with Timer

Starting Torque is also reduce to one-third because starter reduce the starting current to one-third
of the rated current [as Line voltage also reduced to 57% (1/√3)]
It required Six leads or terminals Motor (Delta Connected)
For Delta connection, the supply voltage must be same as the rated motor voltage.
At switching time (From Star to Delta), if the motor does not reach at least 90% of its rated
speed, then the current peak may be equally high as in Direct ON Line starter( D.O.L), thus it
may cause harmful effects on the contactors contacts, so it would not be reliable.
We may not use star delta starter if the required (application or load) torque is more than 50% of
the three phase induction motors rated torque

You may Also Read Other Power & Control Diagrams here:

Three Phase Motor Power & Control Wiring Diagrams

Three Phase Motor Power & Control Wiring
Diagrams
Electrical Technology 06/22/2014

Three Phase Motor Power & Control Wiring Diagrams

Three Phase Motor Power & Control Wiring Diagrams

3-Phase Motor Power & Control Wiring Diagrams

6. Three Phase Motor Connection Schematic, Power and Control Wiring

Installation Diagrams.
The Star-Delta (Y-Δ) 3-phase Motor Starting Method by Automatic star-delta starter with
Timer.
Three Phase Motor Connection Star/Delta (Y-Δ) Reverse / Forward with Timer Power &
Control Diagram
Starting & Stopping of 3-Phase Motor from more than One Place Power & Control
diagrams
Control 3-Phase Motor from more than Two buttons Power & Control Diagrams
ON / OFF Three-Phase Motor Connection Power & Control Diagrams
REV / FOR Three-Phase Motor Connection Power and Control diagrams
Three Phase Slip Ring Rotor Starter Control & Power Diagrams
2 Speeds 1 Direction 3 Phase Motor Power and Control Diagrams
Two Speeds, Two Directions Multispeed 3-phase Motor Power & Control Diagrams
Multi Speed 3-Phase Motor, 3 Speeds, 1 Direction, Power & Control Diagrams

Three Phase Motor Connection Star/Delta

(Y-Δ) Reverse / Forward with Timer Power &
Control Diagram
Electrical Technology 06/03/2014

Three Phase Motor Connection Star/Delta (Y-Δ) Reverse and Forward with Timer Power &
Control Diagram
As we have already shared the Starting method of Three Phase Motor by Star Delta Starter with
Timer Circuit (Power and Control Circuits). Now in the below diagrams, Three phase Motor will
rotate in two directions viz Forward and Reverse. But We have controlled the direction of
rotation of this three phase motor by a Timer circuit.
Abbreviations:
O/L = Over Load Relay
NO = Normally Open
NC = Normally Close
FOR = Forward
REV = Reverse
T = Timer
3 Phase Motor Connection Star/Delta (Y-Δ) Reverse / Forward with Timer Power Diagram
Power Diagram:

3 Phase Motor Connection Star/Delta (Y-Δ) Reverse / Forward with Timer Control Diagram
Control Diagram:
Starting & Stopping of 3-Phase Motor from
more than One Place Power & Control
diagrams
Electrical Technology

Starting & Stopping of 3-Phase Motor from more than One Place Power &
Control diagrams

Whenever we need to start and stop the motor from more than one point, then we may expand it
through push buttons in the motor control circuit ( for example, You may use this alternative
power control wiring diagram of controlling a three phase motor from more than two places)
.
We may connect;
Start push buttons in Parallel and,
Stop push buttons in Series,
to control ON / OFF operation of the motor from more than one place.
Whenever we need to provide emergency stop to the 3-Phase Motor, apart the motor Start and
Stop push buttons, we may use many more (as needed) Stop push buttons (Use Start Push
buttons in parallel and Stop push buttons in series).
The main advantage of using the Contactor, we can control i.e. Start and Stop the motor from
any location
Suppose, you have to Control the Motor ON/OFF operation from more than two or three places,
for this propose, you may use the following simple control circuit.

Abbreviations:
L1 , L2, L3 = Red, Yellow, Blue ( 3 Phase Lines)

N = Neutral
O/L = Over Load Relay
NO = Normally Open
K1 = Contactor (Contactor coil)
K1/NO = Contactor Holding Coil (Normally Open)
you might Also read:
Main Difference between contactor and Starter.
A simple circuit diagram for understanding the Working of contactor.
Three Phase Motor Power & Control Wiring Diagrams
Starting & Stopping of 3-Phase Motor from more than One Place Power diagram
Power Diagram:

Starting & Stopping of 3-Phase Motor from more than One Place Control diagram
Control Diagram:

Three Phase Slip Ring Rotor Starter Control

& Power Diagrams
Electrical Technology 06/13/2014

3 Phase Slip Ring Rotor Starter Control & Power Diagrams

Abbreviations:

O/L = Over Load Relay

NO = Normally Open

NC = Normally Close

Three Phase Slip Ring Rotor Starter Control & Power

Three Phase Slip Ring Rotor Starter Power Diagram

Power Diagram:
Three Phase Slip Ring Rotor Starter Control Diagram

Control Diagram: Check

more diagrams here: Three Phase Motor & Control Installation wiring diagrams
Two Speeds, Two Directions Multispeed 3-
phase Motor Power & Control Diagrams
Electrical Technology 06/06/2014

2 Speeds, 2 Directions Multispeed 3-phase Motor Power & Control Diagrams

Abbreviations:
O/L = Over Load Relay
NO = Normally Open
NC = Normally Close
Low = Low Speed
High = High Seed
FOR = Forward
REV = Reverse
Two Speeds, Two Directions Multispeed 3-phase Motor Power Diagram
Power Diagram:

Two Speeds, Two Directions Tapped wound, Multispeed 3-phase Motor Control Diagram
Control Diagram: