What is the primary purpose of circuit breakers in an aircraft electrical system?

The primary purpose of circuit breakers in an aircraft electrical system is to protect the circuit. Circuit breakers are designed to prevent damage to the electrical components and wiring of the aircraft by interrupting the flow of electricity when an overload or fault condition is detected. This protective function ensures that excessive current does not flow through the system, which could lead to overheating, equipment failure, or even fire.

By automatically shutting off the circuit when a fault occurs, circuit breakers play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and integrity of the aircraft’s electrical system. This protection is essential in ensuring that all systems operate reliably and that the risk of electrical hazards is minimized.

In contrast, while circuit breakers can influence voltage and current, their primary and most critical function is as protective devices rather than as regulators or controllers. Additionally, although some circuit breakers may be designed to be reset manually, their main role is not to function as a manual switch but rather to safeguard the electrical system during fault conditions.