What Is Breaker Testing?

Breaker testing refers to testing the performance of low voltage molded case and insulated case circuit breakers and the trip function. Also known as trip profiling or time current curves (TCC), breaker testing will help you determine that the breaker is functioning safely and properly. Breaker testing can generally be performed on-site by qualified professionals who have done their research, such as our Craft Electric & Maintenance team. Breaker testing is an NFPA 70B recommendation and an OSHA requirement. You should perform these tests every three to five years, as NFPA standards recommend.

Why Is Breaker Testing Important?

Performing breaker testing is essential for keeping employees safe and reducing the risk of equipment failure. This testing helps you minimize downtime and lost revenue for your business. Breaker testing is vital to the safe and reliable operation of the electrical distribution system.

The design of circuit breakers, fuses, and other switching devices allows them to open when there is a fault (short-circuit) or overload condition. Once this equipment is is installed, there should be a preventive maintainance program in place to reduce the risk associated with equipment failure. NFPA 70B (Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance) recommends breaker testing every 3-5 years.

How Can Craft Electric & Maintenance Help With Breaker
Testing?

Craft Electric & Maintenance works with you to perform the proper testing on your breaker. Breaker testing generally consists of two methods. Breakers will need to be taken out of service to perform these tests. The two methods of breaker testing are:

(1) Primary Injection Testing injects a high current through the breaker to test the current path and the functionality of the breaker.

(2) Secondary Injection Testing injects a low current through the tripping mechanism to verify the trip characteristics in the event of an overload or fault condition.

For more information on breaker testing, please click the button below to speak with an expert.

What Type of Breaker Testing Reporting Do We
Provide?

Craft Electric & Maintenance’s breaker testing report is a single-page form that informs you of your pass or fail status and test results. If your breaker fails, we will provide a root cause analysis and recommendations for corrective action. Typical services to mitigate problems include:

• Actuating (exercising) breakers
• Verify proper installation
• Verify “as found settings” if applicable and make necessary adjustments
• Replacement of breaker

For more information on breaker test reporting, please click the button below to speak with an expert.

Why Choose Craft Electric & Maintenance for Breaker
Testing?

Craft Electric & Maintenance will ensure we keep your downtime to an absolute minimum. We consult with you before any breaker testing starts to confirm that you have backup replacement breakers in the event a breaker we test fails. If you do not have replacement breakers on site, we will work with you to acquire replacement breakers before testing takes place.

We ALWAYS follow current NFPA 70B standards or industry best practices. We have technicians properly trained in the different methods of breaker testing, and we are ready to help you when you need it most. We offer 24/7 emergency service to existing clients. We understand that you often need a quick response for services, and we strive for a one-week turnaround on proposals.