Overview

The 6kA 16A RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent) delivers comprehensive electrical safety by integrating both overcurrent protection and residual current detection into a single, space-saving 1-module unit. With a 16-ampere rated current, this RCBO is perfectly suited for protecting standard final socket circuits, small appliance circuits, kitchen appliance outlets, commercial equipment, workshop machinery, and general purpose power circuits where loads typically range from 2kW to 3.68kW (16A at 230V). 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—a reliability feature rarely found at this price point.

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, televisions, LED lighting, induction appliances, washing machines, dishwashers, tumble dryers, and any device with switch-mode power supplies or single-phase rectified circuits. With B-curve magnetic tripping characteristics (3-5x rated current = 48-80A trip range), this RCBO is perfectly calibrated for general purpose socket and power circuits where moderate inrush currents from motors or capacitive loads must be accommodated without nuisance tripping. 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 16A RCBO represents the ideal protection solution for residential socket circuits, commercial power outlets, and light industrial applications demanding integrated electrical safety.

Superior Protection for Standard Power Circuits

The 16A RCBO addresses the most common circuit rating in residential and commercial electrical installations—the standard final socket circuit. While a conventional MCB protects only against overcurrent and short circuits, and a standalone RCD provides only earth leakage detection often shared across multiple circuits, this integrated RCBO delivers both protection mechanisms simultaneously within a single 1-module DIN rail footprint. This integration is particularly valuable for 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 with switch-mode power supplies. The 16-ampere rating makes this RCBO perfect for standard BS1363 socket circuits (protecting up to approximately 10-13 socket outlets depending on floor area and expected load), kitchen appliance outlets for fridges, freezers, microwaves, and dishwashers, washing machine and tumble dryer circuits, commercial power outlets in shops and offices, workshop equipment including bench grinders, small saws, and drills, and any general purpose power circuit requiring 16A protection with both fault current and earth leakage detection.

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 and electronic controls. Modern equipment including computers, televisions, LED drivers, induction hobs, washing machines, dishwashers, tumble dryers, air fryers, microwave ovens, 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 16A-rated general purpose power 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 (48-80A) tripping characteristic ideal for general purpose socket and power 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: 16 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 = 48-80A 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 is the maximum number of socket outlets I can protect with a 16A RCBO?
For a standard final socket circuit protected by a 16A RCBO, BS 7671 (UK wiring regulations) allows an unlimited number of socket outlets, provided the expected load does not exceed 16A and the floor area served does not exceed 100 square metres for radial circuits. For ring circuits, the maximum protected area is 100 square metres. In practice, for a 16A radial circuit, 3-5 double sockets is typical. For a 16A dedicated appliance circuit (washing machine, dishwasher, tumble dryer), a single outlet is standard. Always perform an actual load assessment for specific installations.

2. Why is Type A protection mandatory for many 16A socket circuits under modern regulations?
Modern wiring regulations (including the 18th Edition of BS 7671) increasingly require Type A RCDs for socket circuits due to the proliferation of electronic equipment in homes and businesses. Standard AC-type RCDs can be blinded by pulsating DC leakage currents generated by switch-mode power supplies in computers, TVs, phone chargers, LED drivers, and appliance control boards. Type A RCBOs detect these pulsating DC waveforms, ensuring continued protection. Many Part P building regulation inspectors now expect Type A protection for all new or modified socket circuits.

3. Can I use this 16A RCBO on a 20A circuit or with 20A-rated equipment?
No. A 16A RCBO is designed for circuits and loads up to 16A maximum. For 20A circuits, you should select the 20A version of this RCBO (RCBO-120B-030 or RCBO-120C-030). Using a 16A RCBO on a 20A circuit would cause nuisance tripping under normal 20A loads and would not provide adequate overload protection, potentially leading to cable overheating and fire risk. Always match the RCBO rating to the circuit design current and cable capacity.

4. What is the practical difference between Icn=6kA and Ics=7.5kA on this RCBO?
Icn (6kA) is the rated short-circuit breaking capacity—the maximum fault current this RCBO can interrupt once and remain safe for continued use. Ics (7.5kA) is the service short-circuit breaking capacity—the fault current the RCBO can interrupt and still remain fully functional for normal service. Having Ics higher than Icn is exceptional and means if this RCBO clears a fault up to 7.5kA, it will continue operating correctly without needing replacement. Most standard protective devices require replacement after clearing any fault at their Icn rating. This provides superior reliability for commercial and industrial installations.

5. What cable sizes are recommended for a 16A circuit protected by this RCBO?
For a 16A circuit, the minimum recommended cable size is 1.5mm² for lighting circuits or 2.5mm² for socket/power circuits when using standard PVC-insulated copper cable. For longer runs exceeding approximately 30 metres, 2.5mm² or 4mm² may be required to maintain voltage drop within 3% for lighting or 5% for power circuits. The terminals on this RCBO accept up to 25mm², allowing for substantial oversizing where voltage drop or future expansion is a concern. Always consult BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) for specific installation methods and derating factors.