Siemens AG is a multinational conglomerate based in Germany that operates in various sectors, including energy, healthcare, industrial automation, and infrastructure. In the context of circuit breakers, Siemens offers a wide range of products that cater to different industrial and residential applications. Siemens business sectors include industry, energy and healthcare. Siemens employs over 400,000 people around the world in 190 countries. 2009 revenue exceeded $75 billion. Founded in 1847, Siemens is headquartered in Germany. Products engineered and supplied include power generation technology, communications systems, industrial automation, lighting, medical technology and more.
Siemens Semiconductors spun off from Siemens AG on April 1, 1999 forming a separate legal entity-Infineon Technologies AG. Infineon Technologies AG is one of the largest semiconductor producers and suppliers in the world and is known to serve three main divisions: Automotive, Industrial Electronics, and Chip Card and Security Applications. The company has a history as old as the birth of the telegraph, but it officially started its operations as an independent company on 1 April 1999. In the year 2000, Infineon started to focus on mobile communications, Internet access, electronic banking, electronic and mobile commerce along with innovative security and authentication systems. During the same time, it also introduced its first Bluetooth chipset.
Circuit breakers are crucial components in electrical systems as they help protect these systems from overcurrents and short circuits, which can lead to equipment damage, fires, and other hazards. Siemens circuit breakers are known for their quality, reliability, and innovation.
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Siemens offers a variety of circuit breakers, including:
- Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs): Typically used in residential and commercial settings for protecting branch circuits.
- Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs): These are designed for higher current applications, such as industrial machinery and large commercial buildings.
- Air Circuit Breakers (ACBs): These are used in high-current applications like power distribution in large industrial plants and commercial buildings.
- Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs) and Residual Current Circuit Breakers with Overcurrent Protection (RCBOs): These devices provide protection against ground faults and leakage currents, which can be life-saving in certain situations.
- Circuit Breaker Accessories: Siemens also offers a range of accessories and auxiliary devices to enhance the functionality and safety of their circuit breakers.
- Innovation and Technology: Siemens circuit breakers often incorporate advanced technologies for improved performance and safety. These might include features like adjustable trip settings, communication capabilities (such as Modbus or Profibus interfaces), and remote control options.
- Arc Fault Detection: Siemens has developed arc fault detection solutions to enhance safety by detecting and responding to potentially hazardous arc faults in electrical systems. These solutions can prevent fires caused by arcing.
- Remote Monitoring and Control: Some Siemens circuit breakers can be integrated into smart building management systems, allowing for remote monitoring, control, and diagnostics. This can lead to more efficient maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Compliance and Standards: Siemens circuit breakers generally adhere to international standards such as IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and UL (Underwriters Laboratories), ensuring that they meet safety and performance requirements.
- Environmental Considerations: Siemens, like many other companies, has been increasingly conscious of environmental concerns. Some of their circuit breakers may incorporate features for energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.