ElectricalDyevOpen workspace

Protection relation

A preliminary Ib ≤ In ≤ Iz breaker relationship check

Explore the basic relation between design current, nominal breaker rating and corrected cable capacity.

Open preliminary breaker-size helper →
Low-voltage distribution board with circuit breakers

What this calculation is for

The breaker helper identifies rating-series options that satisfy the narrow preliminary relationship Ib ≤ In ≤ Iz. It does not determine breaking capacity, selectivity, fault protection, coordination or compliance.

How to use the calculator

  1. Enter the design current and the corrected cable capacity.
  2. Choose the supplied rating series and pole count appropriate to your concept.
  3. Review candidate ratings and the relation shown for each.
  4. Use a qualified protection study and applicable product data before selecting equipment.

Useful for

  • • Early circuit concept
  • • Comparing nominal rating choices
  • • Documenting a preliminary relationship in a local project
Open preliminary breaker-size helper

Fields explained

Ib

Design current expected for the circuit.

Iz

Corrected cable current-carrying capacity from a separately reviewed assessment.

Rating series

The available nominal breaker ratings you want to compare.

Poles / curve

Descriptive preliminary inputs; they do not complete a protection design.

Illustration of the design current, breaker rating and cable capacity relationship

Important limits and next checks

Preliminary engineering aid only. This article and its calculator do not provide an approval, certificate, compliance determination or installation instruction.

  • Fault level, breaking capacity, RCD requirements, discrimination, conductor protection and local rules are not solved here.
  • Do not purchase or install a breaker on this helper alone.

Verify applicable laws, rules, standards, manufacturer data and project conditions with a qualified electrical professional before construction, procurement or regulatory submission.