Q & A of the Day - Will a GU10 fire-rated fitting's heat be an issue for T&E cabling?

Question: I've been told that downlights should be connected up using a JB on the twin & earth cable (T&E) and the running flex into the fitting. I asked why, and an NICEIC man said: "I see no reason, unless you use heat resistant flex for the final connection - but so far I have only seen 'normal' flex used".

What sort of heat will be pushed out the rear of a GU10 fire-rated fitting? Would this realistically be an issue for T&E cable?

Note that the fitting would not be touching the fitting, as it is held back by the location of the termination point.

Is it really going to be worthwhile adding extra connection points, and would the fitting raise ambient in a ceiling void above T&E temperature limits?

Answer: Each fixed lighting point should be connected to the fixed wiring using one of the methods listed in Regulation 559.6.1.1. Luminaires may be directly connected to fixed wiring installations, where the luminaires and lampholders are suitably designed for such a connection. When selecting the cable and cable connections for any luminaire or lampholder, consideration should always be given to the effects of heat.

Additionally, the installation instructions and requirements of the manufacturer must always be followed - see Regulation 559.4.1. Incorrectly installed downlights can be a fire hazard.

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