Blog Sparks Direct
Archive for category consumer units
Wiring Regulations: New or rewired domestic and similar installations
Posted by the electrician in ask Mr Sparks, bathroom lights, consumer units, customer service, electrical products, electrical safety tips, guest expert, standards and regulations, technical data on March 20, 2012
The good folks at the Electrical Safety Council have a lot of good information when it comes to the Wiring Regulations concerning the new or rewired domestic and similar installations. Below we have compiled a few of the most popular ones out of the 57 such questions and their answers.
Does the 17th Edition require all 13 A socket-outlets in domestic premises to be RCD-protected?
For new installations and rewires in domestic premises, all socket-outlets need to have additional protection by RCD, except perhaps for those intended to supply particular items of equipment such as freezers. Any socket-outlet not having RCD protection needs to be specifically labelled or otherwise suitably identified to indicate its intended use, such as ‘freezer only’. However, if the wiring to a dedicated socket-outlet is concealed in a wall or partition at a depth of less than 50 mm, or if the internal construction of the wall or partition includes metallic parts other than metallic fixings, the circuit will still need to be suitably protected (by RCD or other means).
More info: see Regulation number(s) 411.3.3, 522.6.101, 522.6.102, 522.6.103.
The 17th Edition does not now define a zone 3 in a bathroom or shower room. What electrical equipment and accessories can be installed in the area between 0.6 m and 3.0 m from the edge of the bath or shower basin? Moreover, what minimum degree of IP protection are manufacturers likely to recommend?
There is no change from the 16th Edition requirements – that is, the general rules apply. The manufacturer’s installation instructions must always be followed.
More info: see Regulation number(s) 512.2, 134.1.1
Where the Regulations specify additional protection by RCD, does this include RCBOs?
Yes. Where the generic term ‘RCD’ is used, it refers to most types of residual current device including RCBOs (Residual current-operated circuit-breakers with integral overcurrent protection), RCCBs (Residual current-operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection) and SRCDs (Socket-outlets incorporating a residual current device). For the purposes of the Regulations, it does not include PRCDs (Portable residual current devices).
More info: see Regulation number(s) 411.3.3
Can accessories and electrical equipment such as socket-outlets and under-cupboard lighting be fixed to fitted kitchen units?
Yes, provided that they are securely fixed to rigid parts of the units that are not demountable or otherwise liable to be disturbed in normal service. However, care must be taken to comply with all the relevant requirements of BS 7671, including accessibility for inspection, testing and maintenance, and provision of adequate protection against damage (by impact or water for example) for the accessories, equipment and associated wiring.
More info: see Regulation number(s) 530.4.2
Read the entire FAQ on this subject via ESC, or more articles on this topic at, Electrical Safety and Wiring Regulations.
Ryefield Boards – the 9 way Ryefied Board, nine way 60A Ryefield TPN fuseboards
Posted by sparksdirect in all-time best-seller, ask Mr Sparks, consumer units, electrical products, guest expert, products pictures, promotions, technical data, website update on July 18, 2011
The RY9 is a 9 way TPN Ryefield Board – the most popular and used Ryefield TPN Fuseboard. Since the manufacturer themselves don’t offer too much information concerning the Ryefield boards, all you have to see on our website are the technical specifications of this 9 Way Ryefield Board. If you need a Ryefield Board or a Ryefield Fuseboard urgently, you can contact us and it can be ordered + quoted on request! The Ryefield Boards are part of the industrial consumer units on our website – read a more comprehensive review of the Ryefield boards, fuseboards, Ryefield cut outs and service head dis. fuseboard. With cases fabricated from 18g steel sheets, the covers are lift-off hinged ones with padlocking attachment and Multilock. The back of the Ryefield TPN Board cases is drilled and embossed for the wall fixing, and the clamps are standard main grass clamps(adjustable, in order to accept 25 square mm to 120 sq mm stranded conductors). The brass neutral of the Ryefield Boards in the TPN range is with main clamp and pinching screw circuit terminals – one per fuse unit. The finish of the Ryefield TPN Fuseboard case is enamelled epoxy polyester powder Dark Grey Shade, the screws are made of steel, and the component parts are zinc plated.
The 9 Way Ryefield TPN Board – The RY9 Main features
- The case: fabricated from 18g steel sheets;
- The lift off hinged cover: with padlocking attachment and Multilock;
- The back of case: drilled and embossed for wall fixing;
- Standard main brass clamp and pinching screw circuit terminals – one per fuse unit;
- The brass earth block: with pinching screw terminals and PME link;
- Part of the Ryefield TPN boards – see the full range;
- Plain removable plates top and bottom as standard;
- The fuses taken: 60A service type fuse units;
- The Ryefield TPN Board: 9 ways fuseboard;
- The dimensions: 535(Height) x 400(Width) x 180(Depth) mm;
- The finish: This Ryefield Board case is enamelled epoxy polyester powder dark grey shade. The steel screws and component parts zinc plated.
- More about the Ryefield Boards and Fuseboards(other models);
- Buy online the 9 way Ryefield Board, RY9 Ryefield Fuseboard.
To purchase online Ryefield boards, view our full offer at the Industrial Consumer Units, where you can choose the proper Ryefield board for your need. For any advice, contact us, email us with a request, call us, or even visit us in our showroom in Archway – our consultants will help you in your decision and choice. Do not forget: All the Ryefield Boards are In-Store Pick-Up only.
Hager JAB310 TP&N Switch Disconnector, enclosed Hager 100A TPN disconnector / isolator
Posted by sparksdirect in consumer units, electrical products, electrical safety tips, guest expert, new technologies, technical data, website update on May 26, 2011
The Hager JAB310 is a Hager 100Amp TP&N Switch Disconnnector – an Enclosed Hager JAB310 Isolator / Disconnector. This Hager range of switch disconnectors has been designed to complement the FCS, TPN and panel board ranges by providing individual protection and control of individual circuits up to 800A. The enclosures have been designed to provide adequate cabling space without the need for additional cable spreader boxes.
The operation of the Hager JAB310 TP&N Switch Disconnector is through a door mounted rotary handle which is mechanically interlocked to prevent access to live conductors when the switch is in the on position. The handle is also padlockable in the off position.
The Hager JAB310 Isolator / Enclosed Disconnector – Main Features
- Utilisation category – to be used with: AC-21, AC-22;
- This fitting complies with: BS EN 60-439 part 1 (enclosure), BS EN 60-947 part 3 (device);
- IP Rating: IP31 rated enclosure;
- More about the Hager Consumer Units – become fan on Facebook;
- Provides individual protection and control of individual circuits up to 100A;
- Designed to complement the FCS, TPN and panelboard ranges;
- Hager Switch Disconnectors – the main features and benefits;
- Dimensions – Height: 250mm, Width: 200mm, Depth: 150mm;
- Now available at SparksDirect – Hager Industrial Consumer Units;
- Add 70mm to the depth to allow for the handle;
- Cable capacity: 100A = 50mm2;
- Hager Switch Disconnectors 20 – 800A TP&N & TP&SN(full list);
- Part of the Industrial and Commercial Hager Consumer Units;
- Hager Video – advices about the Type B Boards & the 17th edition;
- Buy online the Hager JAB310 TP&N Switch Disconnector.
ESC First Aid advice: in case of an electric shock, what should I do?
Posted by the electrician in ask Mr Sparks, consumer units, electrical products, electrical safety tips, guest expert, in-house announcements, security systems, switches and sockets on May 17, 2011
We grew up learning about this, we are being taught in school about the first aid in case someone is electrocuted, and as we go on in life and get a job, the Health and Safety rule book becomes our best friend from time to time. Still, many times we need to be reminded of some simple rules and advices on how to deal with someone in case of electrical shock. Via the Electrical Safety Council website we found some tips – see the Guide and Advice, First Aid Advice section.
What to do if you believe someone has had, or is getting, an electric shock?
- It may not be immediately clear that someone is getting an electric shock. Smoke won’t be pouring from their ears! If you think someone is suffering from electric shock, approach with extreme caution.
- The first step is to separate the person from the source of electricity as quickly as possibly. The best way of doing this is to turn off the supply, for example by unplugging the appliance or by turning the mains off at the fusebox (consumer unit).
- If this isn’t possible, then try to remove the source of electricity from the person using a piece of insulating material, such as a length of wood.
- NEVER touch the person receiving the electric shock, or you could suffer one too.
- After removing the person from the source of electricity, if the person is unconscious call for an ambulance immediately. Only those with the necessary knowledge and skill should carry out first aid.
- Where the person is conscious and seems well, it is still advisable to monitor their condition, as the effects of an electric shock may not be immediately obvious. In worst case conditions, an electric shock may lead to a condition known as electroporation, where cells within the body rupture, leading to tissue death. Additional problems might include deep-seated burns, muscle damage and broken bones.
Protection from Electrical Shock – use an RCD
Use an RCD. Using an RCD will help to protect you from dangerous electric shocks. Although not a guarantee of absolute safety, it limits the time current can flow through the body if a person comes into contact with a live source of electricity.
It is strongly recommended that anyone using electrical appliances in the garden(like: garden lights, etc) ensures that they are protected by an RCD, preferably one fitted in the main household fusebox (the consumer unit). Alternatively, a dedicated RCD-protected socket or a plug-in RCD should be used.
Hager Distribution Boards, the new Invicta 3 Type B distribution boards – features and benefits(2)
Posted by sparksdirect in all-time best-seller, ask Mr Sparks, consumer units, electrical products, electrical safety tips, guest expert, new technologies, standards and regulations, technical data on February 16, 2011
This article is the continuation of the series on the New Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards from Hager – features and benefits, and it introduces the Single Pole Blank, the Metering, the Aesthetics, and the Choice. Hager have developed the new Invicta 3 type B distribution board as a solution for modern commercial installations. The people at Hager have decided that it was time to design a board that meets these growing needs. Therefore, this new range of Hager type B boards makes it easier for you to design and install electrical distribution systems that meet the needs of today and the future. The new Hager Invicta 3 range of type B boards has been produced to meet with the new IEE Wiring Regulations. Take a look to see all of the new features that the folks at Hager have designed in and how this is going to make installing a distribution board so much easier.
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards – The Single Pole Blank
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards - The Single Pole Blank; Our new single pole blank design is easy to fit to both three phase boards and on a full DIN rail (single phase and DIN rail extension boxes).
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards – The Metering
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards - The Metering; Metering is integral with the main board. There is no need for an additional extension box, saving time and money.
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards – The Aesthetics
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards - The Aesthetics; Strong board aesthetics are ideal for commercial offices, health care and education projects where boards may be sited in public areas.
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards – The Choice
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards - The Choice; The Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards offer you two choices of board, 125A and 250A.
ss
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards – The Single Pole Blank
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards - The Single Pole Blank; Our new single pole blank design is easy to fit to both three phase boards and on a full DIN rail (single phase and DIN rail extension boxes).
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards – The Metering
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards - The Metering; Metering is integral with the main board. There is no need for an additional extension box, saving time and money.
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards – The Aesthetics
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards - The Aesthetics; Strong board aesthetics are ideal for commercial offices, health care and education projects where boards may be sited in public areas.
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards – The Choice
Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards - The Choice; The Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards offer you two choices of board, 125A and 250A.
Read the first part of this series – features and benefits of the Hager Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards(part 1) – introducing the Top Tap Off, the Shrouded Neutral Bar, the Trunking Entry, and the Clear Labelling, or consult the entire range via the Hager website – Hager Distribution Boards. You can buy online the Invicta 3 range of Type B Distribution Boards via SparksDirect at the Industrial and Commercial Consumer Units section. Read more about this range of consumer units via:
- Meeting the 17th Edition needs: the Hager Type B Distribution Boards, Invicta 3;
- 4 more reasons to choose the Invicta 3 Type B Distribution Boards from Hager;
- The Invicta 3 Distribution Boards from Hager: The New Design and Features;
- More features and benefits of Invicta Distribution Boards(Hager Invicta 3 Type N);