Overview

The 6kA 10A RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent) delivers comprehensive circuit protection by integrating both overcurrent and earth leakage safety functions into a single, space-efficient 1-module unit. With a 10-ampere rated current, this RCBO is ideally suited for protecting general purpose socket outlets, lighting circuits, small appliance circuits, office equipment, IT infrastructure, vending machines, commercial display units, and other medium low-current applications requiring both short-circuit/overload protection and residual current detection. The device delivers 6kA rated short-circuit breaking capacity (Icn) with an exceptional 7.5kA service breaking capacity (Ics), ensuring reliable fault clearing under demanding conditions while maintaining full operational integrity for continued service after fault interruption.

Manufactured in strict compliance with IEC/EN61009-1 standards, this Type A RCBO provides 30mA residual current protection specifically engineered to detect both conventional sinusoidal AC leakage and the pulsating DC leakage currents generated by modern electronic equipment. The Type A characteristic offers superior protection compared to basic AC-type RCDs, making it essential for circuits powering computers, printers, LED lighting, variable speed drives, induction appliances, and any device with switch-mode power supplies or single-phase rectified circuits. With B-curve magnetic tripping characteristics (3-5x rated current = 30-50A trip range), this RCBO is perfectly calibrated for resistive and lightly inductive loads where nuisance tripping must be minimized while maintaining rapid fault clearance. Operating on 230/240VAC single-phase systems at 50/60Hz, featuring pillar-type terminals accepting up to 25mm² cable, and rated for 30,000 mechanical operations, this 10A RCBO represents the ideal protection solution for residential socket circuits, commercial office environments, and light industrial applications demanding the highest standards of integrated electrical safety.

Superior Integrated Protection for General Purpose Circuits

The 10A RCBO addresses a critical protection gap that separate MCBs and RCDs cannot effectively bridge. While a conventional MCB protects only against overcurrent and short circuits, and a standalone RCD provides only earth leakage detection, this integrated RCBO delivers both protection mechanisms simultaneously within a single 1-module DIN rail footprint—saving valuable space in consumer units and distribution boards. This integration is particularly valuable for general purpose socket circuits where portable appliances with unknown leakage characteristics may be connected, or for mixed-use circuits containing both traditional resistive loads and modern electronic equipment. The 10-ampere rating makes this RCBO perfect for ring or radial socket circuits protecting multiple general use outlets (maximum 10A per socket or 13A per BS1363 outlet, but circuit protection at 10A provides enhanced safety for dedicated appliance circuits), lighting circuits with moderate LED/CFL loads, office workstations with computers and peripherals, small kitchen appliances, vending machines, commercial display cases, IT rack power distribution, and any circuit where both fault current protection and earth leakage detection are required.

Furthermore, the Type A residual current characteristic elevates this RCBO above basic AC-type protection devices that are increasingly inadequate for modern electrical installations. Standard AC-type RCDs detect only smooth sinusoidal AC leakage currents—adequate for pure resistive loads like incandescent lighting or simple heating elements but dangerously ineffective for contemporary loads containing switch-mode power supplies. Modern equipment including computers, monitors, printers, LED drivers, induction hobs, washing machines, dishwashers, EV chargers, and variable frequency drives all generate pulsating DC leakage currents that can desensitize AC-type RCDs, causing them to fail to trip when dangerous leakage occurs. The Type A rating detects both AC sinusoidal and pulsating DC residual currents, providing comprehensive protection for today's mixed-technology electrical systems. With 30mA sensitivity—the internationally recognized standard for personnel protection against electric shock—this RCBO will trip within milliseconds (typically less than 40ms at 5x IΔn) when leakage current exceeds 30mA, long before ventricular fibrillation can occur. The mechanical endurance rating of 30,000 operations ensures long-term reliability for frequently switched circuits, while the electrical endurance of 10,000 cycles provides confidence for permanent installations. The operating temperature range of -5°C to +55°C accommodates most indoor installation environments from residential consumer units to commercial distribution boards. For any 10A-rated general purpose circuit where both overcurrent protection and advanced earth leakage detection are required, this Type A RCBO delivers uncompromising integrated safety in a compact, space-saving 1-module package.

Key Features

• Complete 2-in-1 Protection – Integrates MCB overcurrent protection and RCD earth leakage protection in a single 1-module unit

• Superior Breaking Capacity – Provides Icn=6kA and Ics=7.5kA (Ics higher than Icn for enhanced reliability)

• Type A Residual Current Detection – Detects both sinusoidal AC and pulsating DC leakage currents for modern electronic loads

• 30mA Personnel Protection – Standard sensitivity for electric shock protection with millisecond trip response

• B-Curve Magnetic Trip – 3-5x rated current (30-50A) tripping characteristic ideal for general purpose socket and lighting circuits

• Single-Pole Compact Design – 1P configuration with 1 module width for space-saving DIN rail installation

• Exceptional Cycle Life – Rated for 30,000 mechanical operations and 10,000 electrical operations

• Generous Cable Capacity – Pillar terminals accept up to 25mm² conductors for flexible installation

• IP20 Protection Rating – Suitable for installation within consumer units, distribution boards, and enclosures

• Wide Operating Temperature – Functions reliably from -5°C to +55°C, stores from -25°C to +70°C

• High Dielectric Strength – 2500V insulation withstand for enhanced electrical safety

• Top Supply Orientation – Designated power supply direction for correct and safe operation

Technical Specifications

• Product Type: RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent)

• Rated Current: 10 Amperes

• Number of Poles: 1P (1 module width)

• Rated Voltage: 230/240VAC

• Short-Circuit Breaking Capacity (Icn): 6kA

• Service Breaking Capacity (Ics): 7.5kA

• Magnetic Tripping Characteristics: B Curve (3-5x In = 30-50A trip range)

• Residual Tripping Characteristics: Type A (AC sinusoidal + pulsating DC detection)

• Rated Residual Current: 30mA

• Mechanical Endurance: 30,000 operations

• Electrical Endurance: 10,000 operations

• Frequency: 50/60 Hz

• Dielectric Strength: 2500V

• Power Supply Orientation: Top supply only (UP)

• Terminal Type: Pillar type

• Maximum Cable Termination: 25mm²

• Screw Torque: 2.5 Nm

• Protection Grade: IP20

• Operating Temperature: -5°C to +55°C

• Storage Temperature: -25°C to +70°C

• Standards Compliance: IEC/EN61009-1

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What circuits are typically protected by a 10A RCBO with B-curve characteristic?
A 10A B-curve RCBO is ideal for general purpose socket outlets (individual or small groups), dedicated appliance circuits for fridges, freezers, microwaves, or washing machines, lighting circuits with multiple LED/CFL fittings, office equipment circuits (computers, printers, copiers), IT and data centre power distribution, vending machines, commercial display units, small pumps and fans, and any circuit with mixed resistive and electronic loads where inrush current is moderate and nuisance tripping must be minimized.

2. Why is Type A protection necessary rather than basic AC-type for a 10A circuit?
Basic AC-type RCDs only detect smooth sinusoidal AC leakage currents and can become desensitized by pulsating DC leakage. Modern 10A circuits typically power equipment containing switch-mode power supplies (computers, monitors, LED drivers, phone chargers, appliances with electronic controls) which generate pulsating DC leakage. Type A RCBOs detect both AC sinusoidal and pulsating DC waveforms, ensuring continued protection as circuits are upgraded with modern electronic loads. Many wiring regulations now require Type A for socket circuits.

3. Can I replace an existing 10A MCB with this 10A RCBO without changing my consumer unit?
In most cases yes, provided your consumer unit accepts 1-module wide devices on a standard 35mm DIN rail and has a neutral bar for the RCBO's flying neutral lead. Unlike an MCB which requires only a line connection, an RCBO requires both line and neutral connections. You will need to connect the line terminal to the busbar, the neutral flying lead to the neutral bar, and ensure the circuit's neutral conductor is correctly connected to the RCBO. Always isolate the consumer unit before any replacement and verify compatibility with your specific distribution board.

4. What does Ics=7.5kA being higher than Icn=6kA mean for my installation?
Icn (6kA) is the rated short-circuit breaking capacity—the fault current the RCBO can interrupt once and remain safe for use. Ics (7.5kA) is the service short-circuit breaking capacity—the fault current the RCBO can interrupt and still remain fully functional for continued normal service. Having Ics higher than Icn is an exceptional reliability feature, meaning if this RCBO clears a fault up to 7.5kA, it will continue operating correctly without needing replacement. Most standard breakers require replacement after clearing any fault at their Icn rating. This provides superior reliability and reduced maintenance costs for commercial and industrial installations.

5. What is the maximum cable length for a 10A circuit protected by this RCBO?
The maximum cable length depends on conductor size, installation method, and acceptable voltage drop (3% for lighting, 5% for power per BS 7671). For a 10A circuit using 1.5mm² cable (typical for lighting): maximum length approximately 45 metres for 3% drop or 75 metres for 5% drop. For 2.5mm² cable (typical for socket circuits): approximately 75 metres for 3% drop or 125 metres for 5% drop. Longer runs require larger cable sizes (4mm² or 6mm²) to maintain voltage drop limits and ensure adequate fault current for rapid tripping. Always calculate based on your specific installation conditions and regulatory requirements.