Typical type tests for RCCB according to IEC 61008-1

BTB Electric

• News
• Apr 19, 2025
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An RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker) is a safety device designed to protect people from electrical hazards. It immediately disconnects the power supply when a residual current (leakage current) exceeding the permitted limit is detected, typically caused by leakage through a person or to the ground.

Applicable Standards for RCCB

IEC 61008-1 specifies the general requirements for RCCBs without overcurrent protection, intended for residential and similar installations. This standard applies to RCCBs with a rated voltage not exceeding 440 V and a rated current not exceeding 125 A. It outlines the operating conditions, electromechanical characteristics, type tests, and construction requirements to ensure safe and reliable operation. The tests specified in the standard include mechanical strength, temperature rise, dielectric properties, residual current response, and performance under fault conditions. It also includes marking, user instructions, and environmental operating conditions.

Typical Test Items

To ensure reliability and safety in use, RCCBs must pass 21 typical test items, including:

• Durability of marking
• Reliability of screws, current-carrying parts, and connections
• Reliability of terminals for external conductors
• Protection against electric shock
• Dielectric properties
• Temperature rise
• Operating characteristics
• Mechanical and electrical endurance
• Operation under short-circuit conditions
• Resistance to sudden shocks and mechanical impacts
• Heat resistance
• Resistance to abnormal heat and fire
• Priority tripping mechanism
• Functioning of test mechanism at voltage limits
• Operation under supply voltage fault (as classified in section 4.1.2.1)
• Non-tripping current limits under overcurrent conditions
• Resistance to unintended effects from surge currents
• Insulation performance under impulse voltage
• Performance under earth fault current with DC components
• Reliability
• Ageing of electronic components

RCCBs are commonly used in residential, office, industrial, and other areas with leakage risk to protect people and equipment. These devices can detect leakage current and instantly disconnect the power, helping to prevent electric shock and fire hazards. RCCBs are especially important in humid environments such as bathrooms, swimming pools, or outdoor installations.

Selecting an RCCB that meets full testing standards is essential; for example, the MR63 model from BTB Electric has been tested at LCIE (Laboratoire Central des Industries Électriques) – a leading French organization in testing, certification, and conformity assessment of electrical products – ensuring users high reliability and safety in operation.