What is a shunt trip?

A shunt trip is an accessory device used in conjunction with circuit breakers or other electrical devices to allow for remote tripping of the device. It is commonly used in situations where a quick and immediate shutdown of power is needed, such as in emergency situations or for safety reasons.

The shunt trip device consists of a solenoid coil that, when triggered, creates a magnetic field that causes the circuit breaker to trip and disconnect power. This can be activated by a switch, push button, or relay, allowing for remote operation of the circuit breaker.

Shunt trips are commonly used in commercial and industrial settings where quick and remote shutdown of power is necessary, such as in large buildings, factories, or power plants. They are an important safety feature that can help prevent electrical accidents and fires by quickly disconnecting power in emergency situations.