Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

Image Part Number Description / PDF Quantity Rfq
D7524.13.05

D7524.13.05

General Cable

GFCI PLUG WITH RECEPTACLE 125V

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Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is an electrical safety device designed to protect personnel from electric shock by detecting and interrupting hazardous ground fault currents. It monitors the balance of current between the hot and neutral conductors in a circuit, tripping the circuit when an imbalance exceeds a predetermined threshold (typically 4-6 mA). GFCIs are critical in modern electrical systems, particularly in damp or high-risk environments, and are mandated by national electrical codes (e.g., NEC Art. 210.8) for specific applications.

Type Functional Characteristics Application Examples
Receptacle GFCI Integrated into standard outlets; protects downstream devices Kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor outlets
Circuit Breaker GFCI Installed in distribution panels; protects entire branch circuits Residential main panels, industrial equipment
Portable GFCI Plug-in or cord-connected devices; temporary protection Construction sites, poolside equipment
Deadfront GFCI Wall-mounted unit without receptacle; provides visual status indicators Commercial laundry rooms, HVAC systems

A typical GFCI contains:

  • Current Transformer: Detects differential current between hot and neutral wires
  • Electronic Control Module: Processes sensor signals and triggers tripping
  • Solenoid Trip Mechanism: Physically disconnects the circuit upon fault detection
  • Test/Audit Circuit: Simulates ground faults for periodic self-testing
  • Enclosure: Flame-retardant thermoplastic housing with moisture-resistant seals
Parameter Value/Range Significance
Nominal Current 15-50 A Defines maximum operational load capacity
Tripping Threshold 4-6 mA (UL 943 standard) Ensures human safety against lethal shocks
Response Time <25 milliseconds Minimizes exposure to hazardous currents
Withstand Voltage 1500-2500 Vrms Ensures dielectric integrity under surge conditions
Environmental Rating IP24 (indoor) to IP67 (outdoor) Determines suitability for specific installation environments

Primary Industries:

  • Residential (bathrooms, kitchens, basements)
  • Commercial (pools, spas, outdoor lighting)
  • Industrial (HVAC systems, wet location machinery)
  • Healthcare (patient care areas, sterilization equipment)

Typical Equipment: Water heaters, power tools, pool pumps, medical diagnostic devices

Manufacturer Representative Product Key Features
Square D (Schneider Electric) QO120GFI 120V, 20A circuit breaker GFCI with visual trip indicator
Leviton GFTR1-KW Portable GFCI with weather-resistant enclosure
Siemens QFG2L120N2 Two-pole GFCI breaker for multi-wire branch circuits
Eaton CHGF206 Combination GFCI/AFCI with smart panel compatibility

Key considerations:

  1. Match nominal current/voltage to circuit requirements
  2. Verify environmental rating (e.g., IP65 for outdoor use)
  3. Check compliance with local electrical codes (UL 943/CSA C22.2)
  4. Consider combination GFCI/AFCI for enhanced fire protection
  5. Evaluate self-test functionality for critical applications

Case Study: A construction site selected Leviton's portable GFCI (IP67-rated) for temporary power tools, achieving 0 electrical incidents during a 12-month project.

Emerging developments include:

  • Smart GFCIs with IoT connectivity for remote monitoring
  • Integrated GFCI/RCD solutions for dual standard compliance
  • Nanotechnology-enhanced sensors for sub-millisecond response
  • Self-powered models eliminating battery dependency
  • Increased adoption in renewable energy systems (e.g., solar inverters)
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