The reactor trip circuit breaker (RTCB) is a very important actuator in the reactor protection system (RPS) of nuclear power plant, and its reliability is directly related to whether the reactor can achieve and maintain a stable safety state. In this paper, the operation status of RTCB in domestic nuclear power plants is fully investigated, the operation reliability of RTCB is deeply analyzed and studied, the failure modes and causes are summarized, and the trend and influence of its operation reliability change are analyzed. The existing problems in management and safety awareness are put forward, and suggestions for follow-up work are given from the aspects of equipment manufacturing, operation and maintenance. This study has referential significance for the related work of RTCB in domestic operating nuclear power plants. © 2024 Atomic Energy Press. All rights reserved.