Search found 912 matches

by AlecK
Wed Mar 27, 2024 1:42 pm
Forum: Protective Devices
Topic: Schneider RCBO What does the yellow label mean?
Replies: 1
Views: 40

Re: Schneider RCBO What does the yellow label mean?

This may seem obvious and a bit silly; but it's not. It's surprising how many practitioners think that because they 'always' feed top (or bottom); everyone else does too. Which leads to improper assumptions being made when accessing an unfamiliar switchboard; that the line side is where they expect ...
by AlecK
Tue Mar 19, 2024 9:39 am
Forum: Testing & Verification
Topic: RCD testing - 180V line A to load N
Replies: 8
Views: 262

Re: RCD testing - 180V line A to load N

Quote from "3017: 2022" 2.2.2 Requirements for specific types of test equipment 2.2.2.1 Voltage indicator Voltage indicators are required to perform the following functions to — (a) confirm that no hazardous voltage is present; and (b) confirm the presence of voltage. Non-contact and single-contact ...
by AlecK
Mon Mar 18, 2024 2:02 pm
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Hi Risk Work-EWRB drawing
Replies: 5
Views: 68

Re: Hi Risk Work-EWRB drawing

I've never understood why so many practitioners willfully avoid the relatively small cost & inconvenience of having an independent pair of eyes.
by AlecK
Sat Mar 16, 2024 11:39 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Hi Risk Work-EWRB drawing
Replies: 5
Views: 68

Re: Hi Rsik Work-EWRB drawing

We can only deal with the rules as they have been written. Opinion as to what was intended, or what "should" be classified as HRPEW, are speculation at best, and certainly can't be relied on. The best you can say for the EWRB info is that it's how they are likely to enforce it. Doesn't make it corre...
by AlecK
Tue Mar 12, 2024 11:14 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Do regenerate drives needs inspection?
Replies: 3
Views: 127

Re: Do regenerate drives needs inspection?

My point was that if it fits the definition of MPGS, then the associated rules apply.
by AlecK
Tue Mar 12, 2024 10:06 am
Forum: Testing & Verification
Topic: RCD testing - 180V line A to load N
Replies: 8
Views: 262

Re: RCD testing - 180V line A to load N

Begins to look like "phantom" voltage; perhaps some capacitive coupling?
Though wouldn't have thought that likely given the short cable runs in a CI.
by AlecK
Mon Mar 11, 2024 10:53 am
Forum: Testing & Verification
Topic: RCD testing - 180V line A to load N
Replies: 8
Views: 262

Re: RCD testing - 180V line A to load N

yes Line A to Load N should be 0V; because Load N should have been disconnected from installation N. That's exactly what the test is supposed to confirm; that ALL poles have been disconnected (which is something that none of the fancy operation-time-measuring devices can check for). This reading is ...
by AlecK
Mon Mar 11, 2024 10:27 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Do regenerate drives needs inspection?
Replies: 3
Views: 127

Re: Do regenerate drives needs inspection?

The answer hinges om item (b) of the definition.
Is the equipment capable of supplying electricity to fittings that are, at same time supplied from another source?
by AlecK
Tue Mar 05, 2024 10:44 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Alterations to cables with green sheathed or bare earths
Replies: 6
Views: 3697

Re: Alterations to cables with green sheathed or bare earths

As an apprentice in the '70s, I never saw 1.0 mm2 3c used for straps, we always sleeved the green(and the black) with red. I don't know exactly when TPS for NZ market started being made with G/Y for the PEC. But would have thought it was after the rule changes that stopped us from re-purposing the P...
by AlecK
Tue Mar 05, 2024 10:02 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: Additions/Alterations
Replies: 11
Views: 5246

Re: Additions/Alterations

Agree no adds / alts can be protected by SERF. Also that all sockets added must gave RCD protection (not necessarily at origin of circuit) I'm not familiar with that kind of foil; but clearly whoever did this wasn't familiar with the CoP for installing foil near wiring & wiring bear foil. And with a...
by AlecK
Mon Feb 26, 2024 6:54 am
Forum: General Electrical Discussions
Topic: lightning protection system certification
Replies: 2
Views: 198

Re: lightning protection system certification

Look at definition of ;electrical installation";
Remembering to use the one in our Act, not the one in "3000".
Hard to see how a lighting protection system fits into that, so I reckon not PEW
by AlecK
Mon Feb 26, 2024 6:48 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: 5033 Switched Disconnector at PCE
Replies: 7
Views: 369

Re: 5033 Switched Disconnector at PCE

If it doesn't say "individual" or 'separate" then those concepts are not mandated.
Equally "shall have a" doesn't mean a common device can't be used.
by AlecK
Fri Feb 23, 2024 11:14 am
Forum: General Electrical Discussions
Topic: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston
Replies: 13
Views: 1827

Re: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston

Lessons there for all of us. A good example of the 'swiss cheese" theory of how things go wrong First an error of assumption about what was there, followed by failing to test to confirm / reject that assumption; followed by non-compliant work; followed by failure to fully test. I to took all 4 of th...
by AlecK
Fri Feb 23, 2024 11:04 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Earth wire type for PV Array
Replies: 17
Views: 2724

Re: Earth wire type for PV Array

Certainly errors can be made; or desired outcome not expressed clearly enough. Part of the problem is that Committee members know what they meant, and always think they have said it clearly. (myself included - though not for this one) No writer should ever be the proof-reader for their own stuff. Bu...
by AlecK
Thu Feb 22, 2024 10:42 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Wiring Systems installed on Ground
Replies: 3
Views: 185

Re: Wiring Systems installed on Ground

As far as Wiring rules are concerned, there's no such thing as "temporary". While this is only intended to be a short-term use of the cable; it has to be installed as if it were going to remain 'forever". Cable must be protected against whatever "external influences" it is likely to be exposed to; a...
by AlecK
Thu Feb 22, 2024 10:36 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Earth wire type for PV Array
Replies: 17
Views: 2724

Re: Earth wire type for PV Array

Agree 4.3.6 covers "cables" being a subclause of 4.3 "component requirements". As it's the only subclause of 4.3 that deals with "cables"; have to assume it covers ALL cables that are poaret of an array. Which would logically include EBCs as well as the d.c. "PV array c. In 4.6.3.1 "size", sizes are...
by AlecK
Wed Feb 21, 2024 9:42 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Earth wire type for PV Array
Replies: 17
Views: 2724

Re: Earth wire type for PV Array

Interesting point by Jamie M about the definition of "array"; but while the EBCs are not specifically excluded they are also not specifically included. And when you look at def. of "array cable" it clearly does not include EBCs. There's general rule that when writing Standards; if you mean the same ...
by AlecK
Tue Feb 20, 2024 3:14 pm
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Earth wire type for PV Array
Replies: 17
Views: 2724

Re: Earth wire type for PV Array

Perhaps relevant that no particular degree of flexibility of specified; just 'multistranded'. Unlike latest draft of IEC 60364-7-x for transportable structures which calls for bonding conductors to be Class 5 flexible [to the relevant Standard] And unlike where other AS/NZS say flexible... complying...
by AlecK
Tue Feb 20, 2024 3:02 pm
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: 5033 Switched Disconnector at PCE
Replies: 7
Views: 369

Re: 5033 Switched Disconnector at PCE

Agree separate devices for each array is preferable.
Just good design.
by AlecK
Fri Feb 16, 2024 10:58 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: New gazette notice for serene heaters
Replies: 1
Views: 284

Re: New gazette notice for serene heaters

Thanks for posting this
by AlecK
Tue Feb 13, 2024 9:06 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Enphase Mirco Inverter System
Replies: 1
Views: 172

Re: Enphase Mirco Inverter System

I recently heard that an exemption from complying with cited edition may be available from ES.

Conditions being
1. no reduction in safety;
2. an exemption for the design is approved by Worksafe NZ (cost $400/design).

Haven't found time to follow this up yet.
by AlecK
Wed Feb 07, 2024 9:35 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Batteries connected to PV PCE
Replies: 5
Views: 690

Re: Batteries connected to PV PCE

Thanks for that link. However this site is not using correct technical language; it's jargon. Nothing wrong with jargon; provided everyone in the discussion knows which flavour is being used. In this case it's clearly intended to inform non-technical people; but is (mis-)using technical terminology....
by AlecK
Sun Feb 04, 2024 10:40 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Batteries connected to PV PCE
Replies: 5
Views: 690

Re: Batteries connected to PV PCE

Not sure what you mean by a.c. coupled, as batteries are always d.c.. Regardless; I don't believe connection of batteries to a PV - inverter system requires inspection. The (installation of) PV requires inspection if above ELV . While there are differences of interetation of what "associated with" m...
by AlecK
Wed Jan 31, 2024 8:43 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Batteries connected to PV PCE
Replies: 5
Views: 690

Re: Batteries connected to PV PCE

I don't believe that's the intent; and they are certainly not in parallel with " mains"; whereas they inverter output is. However ESR 4 defines MPGS using 2 criteria: (a) are used or intended for use by any person in, or in connection with, the generation of electricity for that person’s use; and (b...
by AlecK
Sat Jan 27, 2024 11:39 am
Forum: Distribution, Networks & Metering
Topic: Network Connection of Mains
Replies: 6
Views: 973

Re: Network Connection of Mains

Agree that under normal conditions electricity can't flow with all those precautions. But in event of a fault in the incoming mains it'll flow extremely well. I'm fairly confident that EWRB, or a court, would interpret 'flow" as incliding both normal and abnormal conditions. So the fact the intended...
by AlecK
Thu Jan 25, 2024 11:04 am
Forum: Distribution, Networks & Metering
Topic: Network Connection of Mains
Replies: 6
Views: 973

Re: Network Connection of Mains

I agree that it is non-compliant to connect to supply (active or neutral) without sighting (else issuing) a CoC and also an RoI if there is high risk PEW. It's my understanding that on many areas, the people making connections to network don't even sight a CoC. The pre-connection testing described i...
by AlecK
Thu Jan 04, 2024 11:03 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: MS305 Small Stock Stunner
Replies: 2
Views: 1021

Re: MS305 Small Stock Stunner

The SDoC appears to be in the prescribed form (though I didn't do a detailed check). However I don't think animal stunning equipment is on the Gazetted list of DMRAs; which means the SDoC is a voluntary one, as opposed to a required one. It claims the equipment complies with "6116". 3(b) of ESR 83 l...
by AlecK
Thu Jan 04, 2024 10:11 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: 60335.1 requirements
Replies: 5
Views: 1711

Re: 60335.1 requirements

I agree that's all they need to say (in order to comply with the requirement you quoted).
However sometimes they say more.
My point is that saying more than they need to doesn't make them non-compliant.
by AlecK
Wed Dec 20, 2023 9:32 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: SwitchBoard Upgrade Mains Work or Not?
Replies: 3
Views: 936

Re: SwitchBoard Upgrade Mains Work or Not?

Jamie is correct that simple replacing of MSB is "mains work" but not high risk PEW. Also that both mains & MEC can be extended (at swbd end) 'to facilitate replacement" of the fittings that make up the swbd. And that any alteration to the configuration of the main earthing system, such as introduci...
by AlecK
Wed Dec 20, 2023 9:16 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: 60335.1 requirements
Replies: 5
Views: 1711

Re: 60335.1 requirements

The clause sets a requirement for something to be included in MIs; if the trigger condition for that requirement is met. The "something" is a 2-part instruction ; a) that means for disconnection must be provided in the fixed wiring, and b) that this means must be in accordance with the wiring rules....
by AlecK
Fri Dec 15, 2023 7:29 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: ESC and Council Building Inspectors
Replies: 1
Views: 604

Re: ESC and Council Building Inspectors

The Council is entitled to request a copy of the ESC(s). For the scenario you describe, there should be two ESCs (at least); one for connection of mains (upstream of meterbox) to network, and one for connection of mains downstream of meterbox. What has been connected in each case is actually more co...
by AlecK
Wed Dec 06, 2023 11:14 am
Forum: Off Topic/General Electrical Discussions
Topic: What defines who can do PEW
Replies: 4
Views: 1379

Re: What defines who can do PEW

Most likely people to get a shock would be the painters (or paperers). It's called Karma. Seriously; I'd rather they painted / papered behind the wall-plates than not, and this is work that a homeowner can do. In fact it may not actually be PEW; though I (firmly) believe it is. But safety requires i...
by AlecK
Wed Dec 06, 2023 10:52 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: 2 pole cooking appliance switches
Replies: 4
Views: 993

Re: 2 pole cooking appliance switches

Agree preferable to have a single switch for a complete unit; just making a suggestion that avoids need for 400 V rating. Remember for compliance it's only the hob that actually requires a switch; which is there to allow operator to easily remove the heat source in event of a pan fire. A switch for ...
by AlecK
Wed Dec 06, 2023 10:46 am
Forum: General Electrical Discussions
Topic: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston
Replies: 13
Views: 1827

Re: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston

I hadn't considered that possible configuration; but it makes sense, and fits the reported facts. And while red tape was not compliant when installed, it wasn't unusual. Agree testing is often skimped; with some "mandatory" tests either done using inappropriate methods or simply not done at all. Als...
by AlecK
Wed Dec 06, 2023 9:57 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: 2 pole cooking appliance switches
Replies: 4
Views: 993

Re: 2 pole cooking appliance switches

For a domestic range; if on 2 phases then neither will need even 32 A, let alone 40 or 45. So why not use 2 separate switch mechs on a common plate? (just as you would for separate hob & oven). By separating the mechs with an air gap, you don't need a 400 V rated switch PDL have a 32 A mech; and eve...
by AlecK
Fri Dec 01, 2023 10:52 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: PDL56 series hazard?
Replies: 4
Views: 871

Re: PDL56 series hazard?

2bd look at one i have here, this time with glasses, agree the screw head isn't recessed into a shroud as I thought . So the screw is an "accessible conductive part". But it isn't "liable to become alive", as there is double insulation between it and any live parts. So not ECC test of "accessible ea...
by AlecK
Thu Nov 30, 2023 9:53 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: PDL56 series hazard?
Replies: 4
Views: 871

Re: PDL56 series hazard?

If assembled in accordance with manufacturer's instructions; there's plenty of insulation between the screw and any live parts. First a layer of plastic of the plug body, and then an air gap, and then the insulation of the conductor. So clearly Class II. In this case MI's have NOT been followed, and...
by AlecK
Thu Nov 30, 2023 9:39 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Generator set up
Replies: 6
Views: 1185

Re: Generator set up

Assuming that's 7.3.6 of "3000"; then yes 7.3 applies to generating systems (not just motor-driven; but any sort) that are being installed as part of an installation. . Similarly; 2.5.6.2.1 of '3010" does not apply unless installing the generator into an electrical installation. And there's no simil...
by AlecK
Wed Nov 29, 2023 7:00 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Generator set up
Replies: 6
Views: 1185

Re: Generator set up

The "Lifeguard" unit is not a connectable installation. Definition in Act limits CIs to vehicles, relocatable buildings, and pleasure vessels. Nor is it an appliance - it doesn't consume any electricity. It's basically just a big EPOD. If the protection and sockets are part of the generator unit; th...
by AlecK
Sat Nov 18, 2023 12:18 pm
Forum: General Electrical Discussions
Topic: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston
Replies: 13
Views: 1827

Re: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston

Agree that 3rd-party interference is always a possibility. But in absence of any supporting evidence; it certainly can't be presumed. Also agree that the reporting of this case doesn't provide enough technical detail to be certain of exactly what was done. We can only speculate. But speculation shou...
by AlecK
Thu Nov 16, 2023 12:24 pm
Forum: General Electrical Discussions
Topic: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston
Replies: 13
Views: 1827

Re: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston

The original article led me to think that there was only one (3-core_ cable st the socket; so with active on E terminal of socket there couldn't be any voltage on the A & N terminals so the appliance wouldn't run. This second article indicates there's a separate switch for the appliance; "3-plate" w...
by AlecK
Thu Nov 16, 2023 11:36 am
Forum: Earthing and Bonding
Topic: 5.6.2.5 Shower and Bathroom floor Bonding
Replies: 1
Views: 859

Re: 5.6.2.5 Shower and Bathroom floor Bonding

The effectiveness of the bonding connection to conductive reinforcing should be tested before the concrete is poured. The risk of the pour breaking the connection should be very low. If the EBC isn't fully run at at time of pour, you can test the continuity of the rest when you complete the run. Add...
by AlecK
Tue Nov 14, 2023 11:31 am
Forum: General Electrical Discussions
Topic: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston
Replies: 13
Views: 1827

Re: Nelson electrician Stephen Burton’s failure to carry out ‘simple task’ linked to death of builder Craig Johnston

Correct that sockets added to an existing circuit must have RCD protection. This seems to have been ignored by the prosecution; instead concentrating on lack of testing. In particular, EFLI testing - which wouldn't be required for an RCD socket. EC testing definitely was required either way. Bur wha...
by AlecK
Tue Nov 14, 2023 11:19 am
Forum: Damp Situations
Topic: Switchboard in bathroom
Replies: 3
Views: 777

Re: Switchboard in bathroom

And can't be above a fIxed water container [2.9.2.5(b)].

But maybe it was there first? Plumbing standards don't prohibit the bath being installed under an existing swbd.
by AlecK
Tue Nov 14, 2023 11:13 am
Forum: Damp Situations
Topic: Shower with screen, zone 2
Replies: 8
Views: 5098

Re: Shower with screen, zone 2

Correct that the manner of hinging a door doesn't matter. It's assumed that any door / curtain provided is is shut/ closed when the shower is turned on. Taking an extreme case, the door curtain could be left open, and the user could stand in the shower holding the handpiece and squirting it at elect...
by AlecK
Tue Oct 17, 2023 9:48 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: Alternative to MEN in Mining operations - is it a part 1 solution?
Replies: 2
Views: 825

Re: Alternative to MEN in Mining operations - is it a part 1 solution?

Short answer: yes. Part 2 requires every installation to have an earthed N, ie the MEN system in which distribution N is tied to earth at multiple points. Parts of the installation downstream of that can be IT (as per 7.40, but the basic earthing for the installation must be MEN; as per para 1 of 5....
by AlecK
Thu Oct 12, 2023 6:46 pm
Forum: Testing & Verification
Topic: Induced Voltage In Domestic Wiring
Replies: 5
Views: 1642

Re: Induced Voltage In Domestic Wiring

yes it's related.

however capacitive coupling / induced voltage doesn't affect only unsused conductors.
by AlecK
Mon Oct 09, 2023 8:03 am
Forum: Testing & Verification
Topic: Induced Voltage In Domestic Wiring
Replies: 5
Views: 1642

Re: Induced Voltage In Domestic Wiring

With any multi-core cable; the cores are acting as a capacitor. A 50 m run is enough to put real voltage on the conductor that's not connected to anything. I once had a lighting circuit where the 2-way strap was about 50 m cable route length; which wasn't a problem until the original incandescent la...
by AlecK
Wed Oct 04, 2023 5:46 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: NZS 6116 2.1.2 Isolating Transformers and earth reference
Replies: 1
Views: 856

Re: NZS 6116 2.1.2 Isolating Transformers and earth reference

The only thing in Section 3 that can arguably be said to specifically allow an earth reference is 3.4.2; metalwork used as electrode.
by AlecK
Wed Oct 04, 2023 5:40 pm
Forum: Testing & Verification
Topic: Certification of conveyor system
Replies: 2
Views: 844

Re: Certification of conveyor system

Yes it's equipment wiring, and not part of the "installation". Therefore a CoC is not appropriate. However as it is connected to installation wiring, an ESC for the connection was required, issued by whoever connected it. There is a Standard that covers electrical safety of this sort of equipment, b...