Circuit breakers and air switches are both electrical devices used to control and protect electrical circuits, but they have some key differences.
Function:
Circuit Breaker: A circuit breaker is an automatically operated electrical switch designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by excess current from an overload or short circuit. Its basic function is to interrupt current flow after a fault is detected. Air Switch: An air switch is a switch in which the interruption of the circuit occurs in air. It is often used to control electrical devices indirectly, such as garbage disposals or hot tubs, where direct contact with electrical switches could be hazardous. Operation:
Circuit Breaker: Circuit breakers can be reset to resume normal operation after they have been tripped due to an overload or short circuit. Air Switch: Air switches are operated by a pulse of air. The air pressure is typically created by pressing a button or stepping on a pedal, which sends a pulse of air through a tube to the switch to turn it on or off. Application:
Circuit Breaker: Circuit breakers are used in almost all electrical systems such as residential, commercial, and industrial electrical installations. Air Switch: Air switches are typically used in potentially wet environments, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor installations, where direct contact with an electrical switch could be dangerous. Safety:
Circuit Breaker: Circuit breakers provide a high level of safety by cutting off the power when the current flow exceeds a safe level. Air Switch: Air switches provide safety by isolating the user from the electrical circuit, reducing the risk of electrical shock. In summary, while both circuit breakers and air switches are used to control and protect electrical circuits, they operate differently and are used in different applications.