Q & A of the Day - Is this RCBO OK for a domestic lighting circuit?

BookmarkThis 27.01.2011
ABB
 

Our Voltimum Experts answer your questions on a daily basis in our Technical Expertise area. This one, about the suitability of an RCBO to protect a domestic lighting circuit, is answered by ABB:

Question: Knowing the advantages of using Type C devices, can one use a 6A BS EN 61009-1 Type C RCBO for a domestic lighting circuit that has a 1mm circuit protective conductor (CPC)?

I have read, in the On-Site Guide, page 104 - Table 2D, that the minimum protective conductor size recommended for such Type C devices is 1.5/2.5mm, depending on fault level.

Answer: When using RCBOs you should use the guidance relating to RCDs rather than the MCB part when considering protective conductor sizing. This is because it is the RCD that will act on faults to earth at a much lower current (30mA typically) compared with the 60A from the C curve MCB characteristic.

To see many more Q & A in Voltimum UK's Experts Area, please click on the link:

www.voltimum.co.uk/consult.php?universe=consult.index.questions

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ABB Ltd.,
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Courtaulds Way, Coventry CV6 5NX
Tel: 02476 368500
Fax: 02476 364499
Email: marketing.info@gb.abb.com
Web: www.abb.co.uk
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