In electronic equipment, the main focus often lies with the operational current demand (amperage) of a system. This means that modern systems are generally partitioned into different circuit branches, which can feature over current protection devices. If a problem occurs on the feeder or at branch level, a fault needs to be identified and the system needs be protected and fail safely. Failing safely, not destructively, means that all devices not considered as protection devices, including an EMC Filter, need to survive and be ensured by the overcurrent protection.
Readily available MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers), manufactured in accordance to the standard IEC60947-2, feature current ranges from 1A to 63A. These are designed to trip over specific current ranges. EMC filters are designed to match overcurrent protection devices (thermally) and handle over current situations for a limited amount of time. Clearly, there are huge functional differences between a fuse and an MCB, and by consulting the diagram below of tripping (time to current), a suitable filter can easily be determined.
Overall it needs to be understood that the circuit protection device protects the filter against overcurrent. So, let the system MCB trip not the filter. Schaffner considers a calculated approach based on experience to evaluate the overload capability of any filter. Schaffner filters can be used with MCBs of class B. Furthermore, the filter can be verified with additional tests and certifications for special requirements.
One should consult Schaffner’s website for more information – specifications, applications – on their EMC filter solutions. Click here to learn more.
