Which condition does not properly describe the function of inverse time breakers?

Inverse time breakers are designed to trip in response to overcurrent conditions with an operational characteristic that allows them to react more quickly to higher levels of current. This means that under higher current levels, the time it takes for the breaker to trip decreases, hence the term “inverse time”. When the current is lower and closer to safe operating levels, the breaker allows more time for possible fault conditions to clear.

The statement about fixed response times does not accurately reflect their operational nature. Instead of having fixed trip times regardless of current level, inverse time breakers adapt their trip functions according to the magnitude of the current detected. Thus, they are engineered for responsive behavior that varies depending on the situation.

This core mechanism effectively improves safety by allowing the circuit to tolerate lower current levels longer while providing a rapid response to excessive currents that could indicate a fault, hence ensuring protection of the electrical circuit and connected equipment.