GFCI Types?

[pavicicn]

What are the differences in sensitivity between GFCI's and how would this affect their use? Also are there DC GFCI's

 

[Pierre C Belarge]

GFCI devices are manufactured to a UL Standard. The Class 'A' type are designed to open when they sense between 4 & 6 Miliamps.

Go to www.ul.com and then search their site for more information.

 

[jim dungar]

What are the differences in sensitivity between GFCI's and how would this affect their use? Also are there DC GFCI's

A GFCI is a very specific ground fault device - do not confuse it with other ground fault devices. GFCI stands fro Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter but it is often mistakenly referred to as a GFI.

At present there is only one type of GFCI available, the type A device which is the normal 4-6mA. At one time there was a type B GFCI but it was specifically for pool lighting fixtures.

Another common ground fault device is a 30mA device for equipment (i.e. ice melting cables) and so it is often called a GFPE.

The final group of devices are often called GFI or GF or GFP and have trip points in excess of 30mA and can go up to 1200A. These devices are often separate sensors and relays wired to shunt trip coils of protective devices, this function is also integral to some electronic trip breakers. While not common, it is possible to create a DC ground fault device.