It's only a circuit breaker, yet there is enough complexity and confusion when it comes to specifying circuit protection that many engineers are designing equipment with too little or too much protection. Under protected circuits leave equipment vulnerable to damaging electrical surges. Over protected circuits add cost and can lead to nuisance tripping. Like Goldilocks and the three bears, the goal is to specify circuit protection that is just right.
To specify the right measure of circuit protection at the lowest cost, start the selection process by working to truly understand your load. Then decide which type of circuit breaker is best suited to your application. Avoid the common specifying mistakes, and you will be rewarded with a reliable design.