What are the Purposes, Types, and Uses of Aircraft Circuit Breakers?

Aircraft circuit breakers are considered important units in the electrical systems of military aircraft. The aircraft circuit breakers are designed for two main functions including switching and contactor functions. Therefore, such circuit breakers provide various beneficial operations satisfying the requirements of military aircraft service. The main use of circuit breakers is to provide short-circuit protection. Aircraft circuit breakers can be manual or remote-controlled and both can help the electrical system of aircraft run smoothly at a safe temperature and under a safe load value. 

With the increasing use of aircraft circuit breakers in the industrial and commercial sectors, the global aircraft circuit breakers market is expected to experience prominent growth in the approaching years. The market is anticipated to generate a revenue of $387.1 million and grow at a CAGR of 4.0% during the estimated timeframe from 2022 to 2031. The major players of the market include Embraer SA, Boeing Company, Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation, Airbus SE, and many more. 

What is the Purpose of an Aircraft Circuit Breaker?

The purpose of a circuit breaker is to detect and interrupt any overcurrent or short-circuit that occurs suddenly due to some uncertain factors. At that point of time, the circuit breaker trips, and after that breaks the current flow in the circuit and prevents further damage to the electrical system of the aircraft. This is done by using a spring-loaded mechanism that is activated by a solenoid, which is triggered by the overcurrent or short circuits. 

What are the Different Types of Aircraft Circuit Breakers?

There are several types of circuit breakers used in aircraft. Some of the common types of circuit breakers used in aircraft are discussed below:

• Thermal Circuit Breakers: Thermal circuit breakers use a bimetallic strip that heats up and bends when an overcurrent occurs, breaking the circuit.
   
• Magnetic Circuit Breakers: These types of circuit breakers use a solenoid that is activated by the overcurrent by breaking the circuits.
   
• Solid-State Circuit Breakers: Solid-state circuit breakers use electronic components to detect and interrupt the overcurrent or short-circuit. 

What are the Uses of Aircraft Circuit Breakers?

Aircraft circuit breakers are typically located in the cockpit, but they can also be found in other areas of the aircraft such as the avionics bay or the engine compartment. They are often color-coded to indicate their function and are labeled with their amperage rating. Circuit breakers are used in a variety of systems on an aircraft such as the electrical systems, avionics, and engine systems. The various uses of aircraft circuit breakers are discussed below:

• Used in Electrical Systems of Aircraft: Aircraft circuit breakers are used to protect the aircraft’s power distribution system, which includes the alternator, battery, and electrical bus.
   
• Used in Avionics Systems of Aircraft: Aircraft circuit breaker also protects the avionics system, which includes navigation and communication systems, as well as the engine systems which include the starter, generator, and fuel pumps.
   
• Providing Safe Operation: Circuit breakers play an important role in the safe operation of the aircraft. They are used to control the flow of electrical power to various systems and components, such as the landing gear, flaps, and lights. They are also used to control the flow of electrical power to the engines, which is essential for starting and running the engines.
   
• Protecting Aircraft’s Electrical System in Emergency: Aircraft circuit breakers are also used to protect the aircraft’s electrical system during emergencies. For example, they can be used to quickly shut off power to the engines in the event of a fire or to shut off power to the electrical system in the event of a lightning strike.
   
• Protecting Aircraft’s Electrical System during Maintenance: Circuit breakers are also used to protect the aircraft’s electrical system during maintenance and inspection. They can be used to isolate specific systems or components for maintenance or inspection without shutting down the entire electrical system.

Are Aircraft Circuit Breakers Durable?

Aircraft circuit breakers are designed to be durable and reliable, as they are critical components in the safe operation of the aircraft. They are typically made from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of flight. They are also designed to be easy to use and maintain, with simple, intuitive controls and clear labeling.

About the Author(s)

Princy A. J

Princy holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. University at Chennai, India. After a successful academic record, she pursued her passion for writing. A thorough professional and enthusiastic writer, she enjoys writing on various categories and advancements in the global industries. She plays an instrumental role in writing about current updates, news, blogs, and trends.