The subject of the invention is an overcurrent circuit breaker for an electrical system (M). The overcurrent circuit breaker is provided with a timer (TM) which generates a first control signal a specified time after the switching-on of the electrical system (M), and with a load detector (CT) which is connected to an overcurrent control device (VR) and generates a second control signal if the load applied to the electrical system (M) exceeds a specific value. The first control signal and the second control signal together activate an amplifier (AMP) which generates a third control signal which in turn activates a relay device which opens or triggers a solenoid-operated switch (MG), by means of which the electrical system (M) is switched off. The timer (TM) allows an electrical current surge in the electrical system (M) during the start-up phase of the electrical system (M), without the solenoid-operated switch (MG) being triggered. <IMAGE>
