Search found 912 matches

by AlecK
Wed Oct 04, 2023 5:32 pm
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: N pin on socket used for other means
Replies: 3
Views: 1355

Re: N pin on socket used for other means

However you 'continue" the screen it will actually be a break in the screening. (unless you use metal-bodied plugs). Which defeats the purpose of having the screen; which has to be continuous to be effective. I agree a standard 5-pin socket should not have the N pin used for anything else but an N c...
by AlecK
Thu Sep 21, 2023 7:14 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: "Household and similar electrical appliances"
Replies: 6
Views: 1391

Re: "Household and similar electrical appliances"

That's too much for my brain tonight
And might be a while before I have time to work through it;
as I have a number of other tasks that must take priority.
by AlecK
Thu Sep 21, 2023 10:06 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: "Household and similar electrical appliances"
Replies: 6
Views: 1391

Re: "Household and similar electrical appliances"

Two related but different things. In fact maybe three. What Schedule 4 is about - at least mainly - is deemed-to-be-safe as per ESR 80. And for that purpose if the equipment complies with the Standard as cited ; then ESR 80 deems it safe. In that sense; the heading that's been used to sort all the S...
by AlecK
Wed Sep 20, 2023 9:55 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: "Household and similar electrical appliances"
Replies: 6
Views: 1391

Re: "Household and similar electrical appliances"

It's just a generic description. It indicates that equipment that is inherently industrial in nature isn't covered. So if the equipment is of a type designed / intended / likely to be used in a domestic situation; it's covered; regardless of where it may actually be used. For example, very few house...
by AlecK
Tue Sep 05, 2023 3:17 pm
Forum: Off Topic/General Electrical Discussions
Topic: What defines who can do PEW
Replies: 4
Views: 1379

Re: What defines who can do PEW

Firstly, yes a key counts as a tool. Not that it matters, because 1.5.4.4 (b) uses both terms Where the cabinet is a required item, eg is a barrier / enclosure used to meet requirement for basic protection [1.5.4.4]; then removing that protection must be surely be regarded as adversely affecting the...
by AlecK
Fri Sep 01, 2023 1:28 pm
Forum: Inspection
Topic: PV Inspections - what parts are relevant?
Replies: 1
Views: 916

Re: PV Inspections - what parts are relevant?

As per ESR 70, it's PEW that needs to be inspected. The extent of what's PEW is defined in Schedule 1. Mounts are structural, and - for either roof-top or free-standing arrays - covered by Building Code. In fact there's a Standard for this too, and although written more for solar hot water than PV t...
by AlecK
Sat Aug 26, 2023 7:17 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: pv must be connected to an MEN switchboard
Replies: 4
Views: 1179

Re: pv must be connected to an MEN switchboard

The additional requirements, over and above Wiring Rules, are generally imposed via the network connection agreement.
by AlecK
Thu Aug 24, 2023 10:14 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: pv must be connected to an MEN switchboard
Replies: 4
Views: 1179

Re: pv must be connected to an MEN switchboard

First thing is to get the terminology correct. We do not connect PV (photovoltaic generation) - which is d.c. - to any type of a.c switchboard. What we connect at the switchboard is the output of one or more inverters, which are a form of electricity converter, and not a form of generation. That may...
by AlecK
Wed Aug 23, 2023 9:15 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: 4.3 connection of electrical equipment
Replies: 1
Views: 1068

Re: 4.3 connection of electrical equipment

The key is in the definitions of the terms [1.4.101 & 1.4.102]. 4.3.4 & Fig 4.5 would apply for a PCU, ceiling rose, etc, where the final bit of wiring is flex that can be seen as being part of the appliance. If the flex comes as part of the appliance, it's obvious. Less so if we provide the flex; b...
by AlecK
Fri Aug 18, 2023 8:02 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: The Act - Section 2 Subsection (3) Point of Supply
Replies: 1
Views: 831

Re: The Act - Section 2 Subsection (3) Point of Supply

none of this has anything to do with ownership.

if these sections have been fully subdivided, the POS for each new property willl almost certainly be at the point where conductors cross the peperty boundary.
by AlecK
Sat Aug 12, 2023 10:17 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: Low Risk Work on Mains Work
Replies: 4
Views: 1470

Re: Low Risk Work on Mains Work

Agree that replacement of cable is low risk, so no CoC - or RoI - required. If the load-end connection is done first, only one ESC is required, and it must be issued by the person making connection to network; and , must state that the entire installation has bee re-connected. If the network end is ...
by AlecK
Sat Aug 12, 2023 10:00 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Once a PEN is separated can it be combined again in one installation
Replies: 8
Views: 2045

Re: Once a PEN is separated can it be combined again in one installation

Yes the Note in 5.5.2.1 alerts readers to the provisions of 5.5.3.1; but that doesn't mean 5.5.3.1 applies instead; it means it applies in addition. Remember a not cannot alter a requirement; Notes can only provide additional guidance. It's the combination of these requirements that convinces me tha...
by AlecK
Fri Aug 11, 2023 9:48 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Once a PEN is separated can it be combined again in one installation
Replies: 8
Views: 2045

Re: Once a PEN is separated can it be combined again in one installation

I agree that my interpretation relies on understanding that a PEN performs the function of a PEC. As for the definition; ESR 4(2)applies; and basically requires us to use definitions from Act or ESRs (if they exist) in preference to those in a Standard. The term "PEN conductor" is not defined in Act...
by AlecK
Thu Aug 10, 2023 1:05 pm
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Once a PEN is separated can it be combined again in one installation
Replies: 8
Views: 2045

Re: Once a PEN is separated can it be combined again in one installation

WRT the original question; A PEN conductor has 2 functions (by definition. It functions as a neutral (carrying return / balance current. And it also functions as a protective earthing conductor. As such, it has to comply with 5.5.2.1 - which is why I referred to that clause. and connecting the suppl...
by AlecK
Wed Aug 09, 2023 12:09 pm
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Once a PEN is separated can it be combined again in one installation
Replies: 8
Views: 2045

Re: Once a PEN is separated can it be combined again in one installation

Short answer: I believe it's not compliant For long answer; lets start with some history - sometimes boring but often useful. Prior to 1993; we had the 1976 Regs. The system those Regs set up gave "Electrical Supply Authorities" enormous power; and any matter of interpretation, or any details that w...
by AlecK
Mon Aug 07, 2023 11:20 am
Forum: Earthing and Bonding
Topic: MEN colour if insulated 5.3.5.3
Replies: 1
Views: 1093

Re: MEN colour if insulated 5.3.5.3

Basically 5.3.5.3 is a 'follower" type clause; in that the colour ID is actually set in another clause (3.8), then repeated in this one. Logically the two clauses should match. In fact, the ID requirement (or anything else) shouldn't actually be repeated; because that opens the door for later change...
by AlecK
Thu Aug 03, 2023 12:35 pm
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Alternative supply change over switch location
Replies: 2
Views: 994

Re: Alternative supply change over switch location

Not sure why you're looking at 7.5.8.1; as that clause relates only to ELV. 7.3 is the directly relevant clause An installation can have several "main switches". There can be other switches either upstream or downstream of the "main switch(es)" A common example being the isolating switches in meter ...
by AlecK
Tue Aug 01, 2023 2:33 pm
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Domestic wiring rated for insulation
Replies: 5
Views: 1679

Re: Domestic wiring rated for insulation

This requirement means that some form of de-rating must be applied. Whether 'partially surrounded' or 'completely surrounded' is appropriate depends on circumstances. For any ceiling or floor where there is currently no BTI; the cables being installed will be lying on or secured to structural elemen...
by AlecK
Sat Jul 29, 2023 11:47 am
Forum: Earthing and Bonding
Topic: Explosive Areas Bonding Sizes
Replies: 1
Views: 788

Re: Explosive Areas Bonding Sizes

As per ESR 60, you need 60079.14
by AlecK
Thu Jul 27, 2023 12:06 pm
Forum: Appliances
Topic: 60 Hertz Welding Generator
Replies: 1
Views: 908

Re: 60 Hertz Welding Generator

ESR 29 applies to cases where electricity is being supplied, eg over a network. It's not for cases of direct supply to equipment, with no "works" or "installation" in the mix. I can see nothing inherently unsafe about using 60 Hz rated tools on a 60 Hz genset. However I believe most power tools in N...
by AlecK
Thu Jul 27, 2023 11:52 am
Forum: Switchboards
Topic: Is main switchboard high risk
Replies: 6
Views: 1842

Re: Is main switchboard high risk

Yes I believe ES are wrong WRT re-located installations. But I acknowledge they are the Regulator so their opinion carries some weight. However this is not a case of an existing installation being relocated, it's a case of a part-installation being installed away from the site it will end up on. It'...
by AlecK
Wed Jul 26, 2023 5:18 pm
Forum: Switchboards
Topic: Is main switchboard high risk
Replies: 6
Views: 1842

Re: Is main switchboard high risk

There is no longer such a thing as a 'service main" What you will generally have in a case like this is some of the "mains' being installed now, and the rest later, by someone else. While "self-certification" is a myth; it's a useful one. Each of the practitioners should certify the PEW they do. And...
by AlecK
Mon Jul 24, 2023 3:43 pm
Forum: Inspection
Topic: ESR 78D (2)(c) Periodic Assessments in Quarries and Alluvial Mining
Replies: 3
Views: 1061

Re: ESR 78D (2)(c) Periodic Assessments in Quarries and Alluvial Mining

Mining electrical equipment (MEE) is defined in ESR 4; and includes equipment in alluvial, mining, and quarrying operations. ESR78D (5) says the person who does the PA of MEE on must be authorised to inspect MEE. Note that PA is not PEW. However being authorised to carry out inspection of MEE is the...
by AlecK
Sat Jul 22, 2023 12:28 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: NZS6116 - 2.1.2
Replies: 1
Views: 909

Re: NZS6116 - 2.1.2

I believe that is the intent; and therefore the correct interpretation. However it could be argued that there is actually a barrier for the electrodes, just that it doesn't provide IP 2x; and since there is a barrier, 2.1.2 doesn't apply. Another example of poor drafting; as the words should not be ...
by AlecK
Mon Jul 17, 2023 3:59 pm
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Inspection of non-accessable items
Replies: 4
Views: 4556

Re: Inspection of non-accessable items

Yes, we certainly have to be aware of the possibility that mains may need to be de-rated for BTI. Same applies when spray foam is injected into walls; something to watch for when assessing / reporting on existing installations. Networks are required to provide s/c & fault protection for mains; but o...
by AlecK
Tue Jul 11, 2023 4:41 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: NZS6116 Periodic Inspections
Replies: 1
Views: 904

Re: NZS6116 Periodic Inspections

As I've said before, this Standard is not very well written Also - simply due to age (17 years old, predating ESRs) - it uses outdated terminology. And - again partly due to age, and partly due to being NZS - it reflects the NZ regulatory regime of the time. Where it sits now is that, other than whe...
by AlecK
Mon Jul 10, 2023 1:44 pm
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Duct vs Conduit
Replies: 6
Views: 1383

Re: Duct vs Conduit

Maybe put a saddle or three to prevent lid removal without tool?
by AlecK
Thu Jul 06, 2023 4:49 pm
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Duct vs Conduit
Replies: 6
Views: 1383

Re: Duct vs Conduit

Whoops; I should have seen that. In fact, I should have known it [In currently cited edition; it's para 2, not item (d) of para 1] The "in readily accessible position" but is clear as to when it applies (ie not always); But there could be difference of opinion as to whether a particular product need...
by AlecK
Wed Jul 05, 2023 9:46 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Duct vs Conduit
Replies: 6
Views: 1383

Re: Duct vs Conduit

3.10.1 requires insulated unsheathed cables to be installed in a wiring enclosure (with some Exceptions). That term is defined in 1.4.130. The permitted types are listed in 3.10.2.1 The concept of needing to use a tool may be useful; but it is not a requirement; or at least not a requirement of Wiri...
by AlecK
Thu Jun 29, 2023 12:09 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: NZS6116 - Equipotential zones
Replies: 7
Views: 1993

Re: NZS6116 - Equipotential zones

Section 3 applies to installation of equipment. 3.1 gives the general requirements; with 3.1.2 permitting (additional) protection against direct contact (now known as "basic protection") to be omitted IF the equipment is Class A and is within an equipotential zone. (I say "additional" protection, be...
by AlecK
Wed Jun 28, 2023 10:25 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: NZS6116 - Equipotential zones
Replies: 7
Views: 1993

Re: NZS6116 - Equipotential zones

3.4.1 doesn't say that. The requirement for EB applies to various metalwork in vicinity; and is not specific to each, or any, appliance. Note also 3.1.5(b); which permits isolating transformer as alternative to earthing & bonding for fault protection (using the old terminology: "indirect contact") P...
by AlecK
Tue Jun 27, 2023 5:26 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: NZS6116 - Equipotential zones
Replies: 7
Views: 1993

Re: NZS6116 - Equipotential zones

3.4.1 does not specify that each must have an individual bonding system; and it would make no sense to have adjacent appliances connected to different "local" electrodes". Equipotential bonding - for this Standard or any other - is about not having simultaneously accessible conductive parts at signi...
by AlecK
Tue Jun 27, 2023 11:09 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: High risk - definition of "animal stunning appliances or meat conditioning appliances"
Replies: 1
Views: 947

Re: High risk - definition of "animal stunning appliances or meat conditioning appliances"

I believe that all of these devices come within the ESRs' descriptive term "animal stunning or meat conditioning". This term is not defined in either the Act or ESRs. It is used with direct reference to the Standard; and, as per ESR 4(2), it takes the meaning used in the Standard (whether specifical...
by AlecK
Thu Jun 01, 2023 11:54 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Do leads need to be HD flexible cord?
Replies: 1
Views: 948

Re: Do leads need to be HD flexible cord?

Yes the 2022 edition WoEF check specifies HD; and that goes further than either current or new edition requires for construction. I would expect this misalignment to be dealt with when next amended; but that could be either by increasing the construction requirement to HD or by removing HD from the ...
by AlecK
Thu Jun 01, 2023 11:23 am
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: Veterinary Clinic
Replies: 1
Views: 992

Re: Veterinary Clinic

Not based on it being a vet clinic;
but parts of it could potentially bring other Standards into play
eg hazardous area around gas installation
by AlecK
Thu May 25, 2023 4:55 pm
Forum: Distribution, Networks & Metering
Topic: Point of Supply
Replies: 11
Views: 6384

Re: Point of Supply

Probably Same as a supply fuse; whether it's up a pole, in a pit, or in a pillar. It's "exclusive fittings". PoS can't be upstream of the first "exclusive fittings"; but if those fittings are outside the property boundary for the installation, the PoS will be downstream ; eg for a normal house it's ...
by AlecK
Wed May 17, 2023 9:10 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Sub-main to domestic shed: Minimum size?
Replies: 2
Views: 1540

Re: Sub-main to domestic shed: Minimum size?

Clause 3.5.1 & Table 3.3 set minimum size based on conductor function . ( a look at the index would have found this) The greater minimum size for aerial is because an aerial conductor needs to be strong enough to be self-supporting. If you use catenary support, clause 3.12 does not apply; use 3.13 i...
by AlecK
Tue May 16, 2023 9:42 am
Forum: Switchboards
Topic: AS/NZS 3000:2018 clause 2.10.2.2.2
Replies: 4
Views: 1577

Re: AS/NZS 3000:2018 clause 2.10.2.2.2

A replacement of any fitting, or collection of fittings (such as a switchboard) is maintenance of the installation. Refer ESR 6A; which defines maintenance or replacement of a fitting as low risk PEW. Therefore ESR 59(3) applies, and all three options / pathways to compliance are available. Includin...
by AlecK
Mon May 15, 2023 5:15 pm
Forum: Switchboards
Topic: AS/NZS 3000:2018 clause 2.10.2.2.2
Replies: 4
Views: 1577

Re: AS/NZS 3000:2018 clause 2.10.2.2.2

Note that the Exception after (a) of 2.10.2.2.2 is inset to same degree as item (a), so it applies only to (a). The Exception after (b) is not inset; so can be read applying to all of 2.10.2.2.2, ie both (a) for 2nd exit & (b) for doorway height. However I believe the lack of indent is an editorial ...
by AlecK
Mon May 15, 2023 9:16 am
Forum: Forum User Guidelines
Topic: Getting Ejected
Replies: 3
Views: 2646

Re: Getting Ejected

Thanks Greg, will see how it goes. It's not so much the fact of being kicked out as not knowing what the parameters are. For a long time now I've been able to stay logged in for days, even weeks, at a time Which saves a few keystrokes several times a day; just 1 click to refresh the page and see whe...
by AlecK
Fri May 12, 2023 3:16 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: NZS6116 - Do I need to confirm whole dossier?
Replies: 1
Views: 1316

Re: NZS6116 - Do I need to confirm whole dossier?

TIC: Since the dossier is supposed to include documentation attesting to competence of persons undertaking inspection; perhaps you should already know the answer? I can see nothing that requires the completeness of the dossier to be checked ; and PA isn't required by ESRs in the same way as other ty...
by AlecK
Fri May 12, 2023 3:01 pm
Forum: Forum User Guidelines
Topic: Getting Ejected
Replies: 3
Views: 2646

Getting Ejected

Once again, as in the early days, i keep getting ejected from the site. Not only when just sitting logged-in while I do other things; but even while composing a response. And if you forget to copy the post before submitting, you lose all that work - and time. Start again. So not just ejected; but de...
by AlecK
Fri May 12, 2023 2:54 pm
Forum: Earthing and Bonding
Topic: shape of horizontal earth electrode and distance between two main earth electrode
Replies: 4
Views: 2772

Re: shape of horizontal earth electrode and distance between two main earth electrode

That doesn't mean it has to be in a straight line. Eg could run for 3 m in one direction, then turn a corner for the rest. It could go out for 2.5m across for 2 m, and back parallel for 2.5 m; gibing total length of 7.5 m and min separation of 2 m. Not ideal, but we sometimes have to deal with restr...
by AlecK
Fri May 12, 2023 2:36 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: CI switchboard in damp situation
Replies: 4
Views: 2450

Re: CI switchboard in damp situation

Had prepared detailed answer, including WoEF process for imports under new edition Lost it all when posting, as had been disconnected. wrote this (shorter) version - locked out again\but this time remembered to copy before submitting Very frustrating. Looks like the old bug is back, and site managem...
by AlecK
Fri May 12, 2023 8:50 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Installation batteries
Replies: 3
Views: 1881

Re: Installation batteries

Part 1 is about fundamental principles; so best approach for a Part 1 Assessment is to follow through the various headings. 1.5.3 protection against shock; which is then detailed in 1.5.4 to 1.5.7 That's basic protection, fault protection, additiional protection (RCD), and basic + fault protections ...
by AlecK
Thu May 04, 2023 11:14 am
Forum: Electric Vehicles and Charging Systems
Topic: EV isolators in public carparks
Replies: 2
Views: 1709

Re: EV isolators in public carparks

Note: loss of previous thread probably related to the entire site being down a day or spo ago
by AlecK
Thu May 04, 2023 11:13 am
Forum: Electric Vehicles and Charging Systems
Topic: EV isolators in public carparks
Replies: 2
Views: 1709

Re: EV isolators in public carparks

Two different aspects. First there's the EV charging equipment; then there's the supply to it. The isolator requirement applies to the final subcircuit, so may be remote from the EVSE I can see nothing about how accessible the isolating device has to be. It has to be "lockable" . (Which is a require...
by AlecK
Thu May 04, 2023 11:02 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Inverter in connectable installation
Replies: 12
Views: 7359

Re: Inverter in connectable installation

WRT your suggestion that RCD-protected are somehow better suited; not really true. In a compliant CI installation, there's RCD protection for all final subcircuits; so it really doesn't matter whether the source is RCD-proected, oe isolated-output with switched N-E connection. For direct supply to e...
by AlecK
Thu May 04, 2023 10:53 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Imported switchgear IEC standards
Replies: 2
Views: 1105

Re: Imported switchgear IEC standards

All such devices are imported; nobody makes this stuff in NZ. As to whether compliance with IEC Standards is acceptable; check Schedule 4 (Part 5) of ESRs. However note that RCDs being installed under Wiring Rules are required to comply with one of the Standards cited in 2.6.2.2. These are all AS/NZ...