Instantaneous overcurrent protection is where a protective relay initiates a breaker trip based on current exceeding a pre-programmed “pickup” value for any length of time. Overcurrent protection prevents damage from the overheating of critical components and conductors, further preventing fires and injury. They should not be installed purely as a means of protecting systems against overloads. Its defining feature is zero intentional time delay (or minimal delay), with typical operating times of 20–50 ms, complying with IEC 60255-151 (Overcurrent Protection. Pick Up Current Definition: The current level at which the relay begins to operate, overcoming the controlling force.