{"product_id":"integrated-safety-solution-6ka-16a-rcbo-with-type-a-30ma-protection","title":"Integrated Safety Solution: 6kA 16A RCBO with Type A 30mA Protection","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"ds-message _63c77b1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ds-markdown\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOverview\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eManufactured 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSuperior Protection for Standard Power Circuits\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFurthermore, 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKey Features\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eComplete 2-in-1 Protection\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Integrates MCB overcurrent protection and RCD earth leakage protection in a single 1-module unit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSuperior Breaking Capacity\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Provides Icn=6kA and Ics=7.5kA (Ics higher than Icn for enhanced reliability)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eType A Residual Current Detection\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Detects both sinusoidal AC and pulsating DC leakage currents for modern electronic loads\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e30mA Personnel Protection\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Standard sensitivity for electric shock protection with millisecond trip response\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eB-Curve Magnetic Trip\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – 3-5x rated current (48-80A) tripping characteristic ideal for general purpose socket and power circuits\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSingle-Pole Compact Design\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – 1P configuration with 1 module width for space-saving DIN rail installation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExceptional Cycle Life\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Rated for 30,000 mechanical operations and 10,000 electrical operations\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGenerous Cable Capacity\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Pillar terminals accept up to 25mm² conductors for flexible installation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIP20 Protection Rating\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Suitable for installation within consumer units, distribution boards, and enclosures\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWide Operating Temperature\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Functions reliably from -5°C to +55°C, stores from -25°C to +70°C\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHigh Dielectric Strength\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – 2500V insulation withstand for enhanced electrical safety\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTop Supply Orientation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e – Designated power supply direction for correct and safe operation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduct Type:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRated Current:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 16 Amperes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNumber of Poles:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 1P (1 module width)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRated Voltage:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 230\/240VAC\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShort-Circuit Breaking Capacity (Icn):\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 6kA\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eService Breaking Capacity (Ics):\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 7.5kA\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMagnetic Tripping Characteristics:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e B Curve (3-5x In = 48-80A trip range)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eResidual Tripping Characteristics:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Type A (AC sinusoidal + pulsating DC detection)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRated Residual Current:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 30mA\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMechanical Endurance:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 30,000 operations\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eElectrical Endurance:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 10,000 operations\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 50\/60 Hz\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDielectric Strength:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 2500V\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePower Supply Orientation:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Top supply only (UP)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTerminal Type:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Pillar type\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaximum Cable Termination:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 25mm²\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eScrew Torque:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 2.5 Nm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProtection Grade:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e IP20\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOperating Temperature:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e -5°C to +55°C\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStorage Temperature:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e -25°C to +70°C\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStandards Compliance:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e IEC\/EN61009-1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1. What is the maximum number of socket outlets I can protect with a 16A RCBO?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFor 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2. Why is Type A protection mandatory for many 16A socket circuits under modern regulations?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eModern 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3. Can I use this 16A RCBO on a 20A circuit or with 20A-rated equipment?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo. 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e4. What is the practical difference between Icn=6kA and Ics=7.5kA on this RCBO?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIcn (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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e5. What cable sizes are recommended for a 16A circuit protected by this RCBO?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFor 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.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Excel","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57290372678014,"sku":null,"price":9.56,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0985\/3832\/4350\/files\/Untitled-design-94_c9f602e4-f3c1-4988-839e-1a7287400c6b.png?v=1776718019","url":"https:\/\/ssmelectric.co.uk\/products\/integrated-safety-solution-6ka-16a-rcbo-with-type-a-30ma-protection","provider":"SSM ELECTRIC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}