What is the primary purpose of circuit breakers?

The primary purpose of circuit breakers is to protect electrical circuits from overloads. When excess current flows through a circuit, usually due to a fault condition such as a short circuit or an overloaded circuit, it can cause overheating and potentially lead to fires or damage to electrical components. Circuit breakers are designed to detect this abnormal current flow and interrupt it by breaking the circuit, thereby preventing any harm to the wiring, devices, or systems connected to it.

This functionality is critical for ensuring safety in electrical systems, allowing them to operate within safe limits and providing a line of defense against electrical faults. When a fault occurs, the circuit breaker trips, preventing prolonged exposure to harmful conditions, which is why they are an essential component in electrical infrastructure.