Search found 912 matches

by AlecK
Fri Apr 08, 2022 4:50 pm
Forum: General Electrical Discussions
Topic: Switching of socket requirements?
Replies: 1
Views: 2459

Re: Switching of socket requirements?

Sockets almost Always need a switch - functional (control) not necessarily isolating.
Refer 4.4.4 of "3000"; sets a general requirement and allows only 3 Exceptions;
including types where insertion / withdrawal of plug pins operates a switch
by AlecK
Tue Apr 05, 2022 2:48 pm
Forum: Distribution, Networks & Metering
Topic: Point of Supply
Replies: 11
Views: 6384

Re: Point of Supply

The offence of something being "not electrically safe" comes directly from the requirement for that something to be "electrically safe". "Electrically safe" and "electrically unsafe" are not opposites, it's not an either / or choice where something is one or the other. As defined in ESR 5, they are ...
by AlecK
Sat Apr 02, 2022 5:29 pm
Forum: Switchboards
Topic: First switchboard or metering point.
Replies: 14
Views: 8871

Re: First switchboard or metering point.

Further consideration of PoS, relevant to another thread, leads to the conclusion that a "private works" arrangement is often non-compliant. That's because the definition of "electrical installation" that matters is not the one in "3000", but rather the one in the Electricity Act. That ties "install...
by AlecK
Sat Apr 02, 2022 12:25 pm
Forum: Distribution, Networks & Metering
Topic: Point of Supply
Replies: 11
Views: 6384

Re: Point of Supply

Starting from the DCs being MSBs (as I believe they should be); then the outgoing circuits are submains. If there was just one such submain, the building could be treated as an outbuilding, and the submain could have a PEN conductor and no PEC. As per 5.5.3.1, option (b). But that's only OK for a si...
by AlecK
Fri Apr 01, 2022 12:32 pm
Forum: Distribution, Networks & Metering
Topic: Point of Supply
Replies: 11
Views: 6384

Re: Point of Supply

Agree it can be difficult to determine where the POS is. The question is why we need to know the POS in the first place; and that comes down to determining things like which is the MSB. Most of what depends on identifying the PoS relates to 'compliance' rather than "safety". So I believe the main th...
by AlecK
Thu Mar 31, 2022 10:31 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Signing ESC
Replies: 3
Views: 3576

Re: Signing ESC

On the second question, WRT whether the ESC should include reference to the CoC; this is not required. Required content of ESC is set in clause 3 of ESR 74A. The person connecting carries primary responsibility for safety; which is why ESR 73A requires them to sight all relevant CoCs / RoIs, as well...
by AlecK
Thu Mar 31, 2022 10:09 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Signing ESC
Replies: 3
Views: 3576

Re: Signing ESC

ESR 111A allows CoCs and ESCs to be combined. But it does not require them to be combined. The person issuing ESC is responsible for sending / keeping copies of it as required; and the time periods for the two documents are similar but not always identical So not surprising if they - or their employ...
by AlecK
Tue Mar 29, 2022 10:21 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Same cable for 1 or 3 phase outlets
Replies: 7
Views: 4612

Re: Same cable for 1 or 3 phase outlets

Agree it's tricky. But there are two parallel systems in play for any job. On one hand there's what ESRs say must happen, including certification processes. On the other there's the basis of the contract (written or not). The terms of contract are limited, to some degree, by the requirements of ESRs...
by AlecK
Mon Mar 28, 2022 9:45 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Same cable for 1 or 3 phase outlets
Replies: 7
Views: 4612

Re: Same cable for 1 or 3 phase outlets

The idea that a CoC can only be issued by someone who has done the work is simply wrong. Probably started when CoCs were first introduced; my recollection is that officialdom called it 'self-certification" ; and set up an expectation that PEW should be certified by a person doing (some of) the PEW b...
by AlecK
Fri Mar 25, 2022 2:42 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: RCD requirements
Replies: 10
Views: 6008

Re: RCD requirements

Agree the term "tiny home" has little meaning, other than indicating a residential purpose. But designer's intent is equally useless. Legally, if it meets the definition of "connectable installation"(in the Act) then it is one. Meaning must comply with Part 2 & with 3001; and WoEF required before pl...
by AlecK
Fri Mar 25, 2022 2:32 pm
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Same cable for 1 or 3 phase outlets
Replies: 7
Views: 4612

Re: Same cable for 1 or 3 phase outlets

You may well have to suck it up this time
Unusual for client to specify a 3rd-party sign-off by their nominated person; but as long as it's in the contract you're stuck with it
Hindsight suggests would have been wise to talk to this "Inspector" before quoting
But then hindsight is always 20 / 20
by AlecK
Fri Mar 25, 2022 8:56 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: Same cable for 1 or 3 phase outlets
Replies: 7
Views: 4612

Re: Same cable for 1 or 3 phase outlets

What's missing is the actual rule the inspector thinks has been broken. Running separate circuits for 3-phase and single-phase sockets may be usual practice, but there's nothing in Wiring Rules that requires it. Time to find another Inspector; one who will check the work against actual requirements ...
by AlecK
Thu Mar 17, 2022 9:35 am
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Cable entry into DC isolator
Replies: 4
Views: 3413

Re: Cable entry into DC isolator

I agree that if water enters an exterior enclosure, there's some risk of it travelling along the conduit (or within a cable) to an interior enclosure. Especially if the exterior enclosure is higher. However, throughout Wiring rules, this risk is generally dealt with by taking measures to prevent moi...
by AlecK
Wed Mar 16, 2022 12:58 pm
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Cable entry into DC isolator
Replies: 4
Views: 3413

Re: Cable entry into DC isolator

The is avoiding water ingress into the rooftop array output isolator or other equipment enclosures exposed to weather. Yes 3.3.2.3 is relevant. Also 4.1.3. Remember that while 2014 may be followed as guidance, the one we must comply with is the edition cited in Sched 2 of ESRs: 2012+A1+A2 But there'...
by AlecK
Wed Mar 16, 2022 9:13 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Imported US boat
Replies: 5
Views: 3662

Re: Imported US boat

Can't say for certain whether the WoEF should or shouldn't have been; just that it seems likely the vessel wouldn't pass the combination of complying with Part 1 and complying with all specific WoEF checks of "3004". But I wouldn't report it unless I had one (or more) particular aspects that I firml...
by AlecK
Tue Mar 15, 2022 5:50 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Imported US boat
Replies: 5
Views: 3662

Re: Imported US boat

Unlikely to get through a proper "Part 1" assessment with ex-US appliance & sockets. (remember a WoEF covers appliances as well as the fixed wiring) So the existing WoEF may well be invalid on that score. Using a step-down tx creates issues for fault protection of the 115 V circuits. Also likely to ...
by AlecK
Fri Mar 11, 2022 9:52 am
Forum: Inspection
Topic: MeterBoard Location (AS/NZS3000 - 4.18.3) - Inspector Responsibility or not?
Replies: 7
Views: 5575

Re: MeterBoard Location (AS/NZS3000 - 4.18.3) - Inspector Responsibility or not?

Greg's right that if something went wrong later, Worksafe will be after the relevant inspector. We know that EWRB have a policy that the Inspector is responsible for checking the validity / correctness of CoCs relevant to the HRPEW thar is being inspected. Info on Worksafe website indicates they hav...
by AlecK
Fri Mar 04, 2022 9:28 am
Forum: Earthing and Bonding
Topic: MEN vs TNS
Replies: 5
Views: 6260

Re: MEN vs TNS

As with most Figs, and as per para 3 of 5.3.1, Fig 5.2 illustrates the rile rather than being the rule. The rule itself is the words of the relevant clause(s). So the reference to HV within the Fig doesn't restrict application of the arrangement. Yes, as per (both) Exceptions to 5.5.1.1 , the MEC go...
by AlecK
Thu Mar 03, 2022 9:52 am
Forum: Earthing and Bonding
Topic: MEN vs TNS
Replies: 5
Views: 6260

Re: MEN vs TNS

All our so-called "MEN" installations are TN-S. The "S" stands for "separate"; ie the neutral and earthing functions are performed by separate conductors. One is a neutral conductor (N), and the other is a protective earthing conductor (PE). By contrast, the distribution system for "MEN" is TN-C, wh...
by AlecK
Sun Feb 27, 2022 4:30 pm
Forum: Standards and Legislation
Topic: Common Neutral - Allowed??
Replies: 2
Views: 2659

Re: Common Neutral - Allowed??

Refer 2.2.1.3 The underlying requirement - bold typeface, so a fundamental requirement - is that every single-phase circuit must have its own N. Common N is effectively an exception to this rule; and is only permitted for two circuits "originating from the same supply", also subject to specific cond...
by AlecK
Tue Feb 22, 2022 9:40 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: RCD requirements
Replies: 10
Views: 6008

Re: RCD requirements

I believe most people would accept a typical caravan or motorhome as being domestic; on the grounds that people live in it. That is consistent with the apparent intent of the requirements; and I don't think anyone would argue that following the "residential" rules WRT RCDs would result in a non-comp...
by AlecK
Mon Feb 21, 2022 12:02 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: RCD requirements
Replies: 10
Views: 6008

Re: RCD requirements

Agree it can't be taken as read that a CI will be domestic, or even residential. However there are very few rules that change based on this distinction. RCDs are one that would - but the the complexity of RCDs under 2.6.3 of "3000" is replaced by the simplicity of RCD for all final subcircuits under...
by AlecK
Mon Feb 21, 2022 9:30 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: RCD requirements
Replies: 10
Views: 6008

Re: RCD requirements

A CI is dealt with as being complete by itself. The fact that there may be an RCD in the installation that the CI plugs into can't be taken into account; because there's no control over whether or not that's actually the case. True ESR 60 requires both caravan parks and other sites to comply with si...
by AlecK
Fri Feb 18, 2022 1:58 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Imported Coffee Cart WoEF
Replies: 9
Views: 5166

Re: Imported Coffee Cart WoEF

There's a plan to replace the Part 1 assessment with a set of particular checks depending on what Standards the imported CI was wired to. The checks will be in next edition of "3001"; but will also need a change to ESR 78 before they can come into effect. Unfortunately there was almost no feed-back ...
by AlecK
Fri Feb 18, 2022 12:12 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: RCD requirements
Replies: 10
Views: 6008

Re: RCD requirements

Yes. Being a 'tiny home' it's domestic; so RCD is required as per 2.6.3.1. Domestic is a sub-set of Residential. Being plugged in, it's a connectable installation, so must also comply with "3001"; so now RCD is required for all FSs ( not just as per 2.6.3). 2.6.2.4 (a) is universal (where RCDs are r...
by AlecK
Fri Feb 18, 2022 11:57 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Imported Coffee Cart WoEF
Replies: 9
Views: 5166

Re: Imported Coffee Cart WoEF

Even if adequate (under Part 1) to cause operation of the protective device RCD); 2 Ohms is a fail under App C [C7.5] which ets max 0.61 for 16 A rated. Single insulation upstream of RCD is also a fail: C6.10(b) From the pics I say the wiring fails 1.7.2(a), due to no protection from rubbing on the ...
by AlecK
Fri Feb 18, 2022 10:48 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Using the earth in control wiring as a control core?
Replies: 2
Views: 2917

Re: Using the earth in control wiring as a control core?

Sorry, no simple answers in this area. Traditionally Wiring Rules have been about the wiring that carries electrical energy from a point of supply (generally but not always from a distribution network or 'grid') to a point of consumption (an appliance). Communications wiring (data, telecommunication...
by AlecK
Thu Feb 17, 2022 8:46 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Imported Coffee Cart WoEF
Replies: 9
Views: 5166

Re: Imported Coffee Cart WoEF

Can understand wanting to see a CoC - but it's not required that we sight one and we have no right to demand a copy.
CoC is not required for work done overseas.
And even if we see one, it doesn't remove any responsibility or liability from us when we're issuing a WoEF.
by AlecK
Wed Feb 16, 2022 5:05 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Imported Coffee Cart WoEF
Replies: 9
Views: 5166

Re: Imported Coffee Cart WoEF

Agree there 'should' be earthing conductors for each circuit, rather than individual fittings each earthed to the chassis. But I can't see that it's an absolute requirement. It's a Part 1 matter vie 1.5.5.3 fault protection by automatic disconnection of supply; where (a)(i) requires use of a 'protec...
by AlecK
Wed Feb 16, 2022 9:33 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Overhead cable in conduit
Replies: 1
Views: 2450

Re: Overhead cable in conduit

Stick to "3000", which clearly applies Correct that ESR 70(2) only applies to HV; and ECP 34 applies only to "lines". ESR 17 also applies only to "lines". "Electric line" is defined in ESR 4. "Lines" isn't limited to "works", and would certainly include aerial (or underground) mains from boundary to...
by AlecK
Mon Feb 14, 2022 9:44 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Earthing equipment/appliances in caravans
Replies: 6
Views: 3890

Re: Earthing equipment/appliances in caravans

ESR 73A has a definition (clause (5)of "connection" that restricts it to action that is PEW; which is similar to what you were thinking; and may be why you were thinking it. Not that use of tools is required; but definitely an action that involves a conductor and a terminal of a fitting. This has th...
by AlecK
Sat Feb 12, 2022 1:04 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Earthing equipment/appliances in caravans
Replies: 6
Views: 3890

Re: Earthing equipment/appliances in caravans

Have now found the report. I note the Board quotes C6.2 which - as per my prev post - is an 'inspection" item and not a "testing " item. However it seems the Board interpret it as needing to be tested, not just inspected. I also note they are relying on the earlier decision that issuing a WoEF is PE...
by AlecK
Sat Feb 12, 2022 12:42 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Earthing equipment/appliances in caravans
Replies: 6
Views: 3890

Re: Earthing equipment/appliances in caravans

When we look at the definitions for "electrical installation" & "connectable installation" in the Act; one of the key differences is that appliances are specifically excluded from being part of an "electrical installation" but are specifically included for a "connectable installation". The wording i...
by AlecK
Wed Feb 09, 2022 8:25 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: 3 Phase + N parallel in ducts
Replies: 3
Views: 2817

Re: 3 Phase + N parallel in ducts

Agree one complete set per duct is preferable
by AlecK
Wed Feb 02, 2022 11:20 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: squirrel cage induction motor 50 hz 60 hz
Replies: 2
Views: 3185

Re: squirrel cage induction motor 50 hz 60 hz

As you note, the underlying principle of VFDs is that RPM is proportional to frequency . But that doesn't mean we can just mix-&-match. Running a 50 Hz motor at 60 Hz amounts to a 20% increase in speed, which is significant. Going the other way is approx 17 % reduction, again significant (and can ca...
by AlecK
Sun Jan 30, 2022 12:33 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Connectable installations - only 90v-250v?
Replies: 7
Views: 3754

Re: Connectable installations - only 90v-250v?

You need to look at definition of SLV You'll find it's just a closely defined sub-set of LV. The point of ESR 7 isn't to exclude multi-phase; just to exclude supplies outside the narrow range of SLV True it doesn't specify voltage to earth, but I don't think it's reasonable to take any other interpr...
by AlecK
Sat Jan 29, 2022 12:11 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Connectable installations - only 90v-250v?
Replies: 7
Views: 3754

Re: Connectable installations - only 90v-250v?

1.4.98 specifies "voltage between conductors, or between conductors and earth";
split into 3 ranbes: ELV, LV, & HV

So - by either criterion - our normal 400 between/ 230 to earth is within the range for LV.
by AlecK
Fri Jan 28, 2022 12:14 pm
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Connectable installations - only 90v-250v?
Replies: 7
Views: 3754

Re: Connectable installations - only 90v-250v?

'3001 scope includes all transportable structures supplies at LV - the reference to 1000 V is simply reminding is of what LV is. Remember this is referring to voltage to earth, but even if it wasn't our normal 3-phase supply doesn't exceed 100 v between phases. Also - as always - it's not the scope ...
by AlecK
Tue Jan 25, 2022 10:28 am
Forum: Earthing and Bonding
Topic: Multiple Electrical Installation
Replies: 1
Views: 2947

Re: Multiple Electrical Installation

You have called this a multiple installation, and it may be that. Equally it could be a collection of separate installations. The key issue is where is the point of supply (or points of supply). Remember that metering, occupancies, and similar are not relevant to definitions of installation. the met...
by AlecK
Mon Jan 24, 2022 8:54 am
Forum: Electric Vehicles and Charging Systems
Topic: Domestic Single Phase
Replies: 2
Views: 3147

Re: Domestic Single Phase

While you're designing the swbd upgrade; think about the mains as well.
EV charging is counted as 100% towards maximum demand of the installation, so effectively you'll be adding a significant amount to the overall MD, and the existing mains may not be able to cope.
by AlecK
Fri Jan 14, 2022 10:13 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: IEC14 to three pin socket lead
Replies: 2
Views: 3119

Re: IEC14 to three pin socket lead

I presume by "IT" you mean information technology rather than an IT earthing system. (Not that it affects the ratings). Whole noting that "3008.1" series is for conductors used in installations, and your application isn't part of an electrical installation; the CCC ratings will still be valid for yo...
by AlecK
Thu Jan 06, 2022 11:08 am
Forum: Transportable Installations
Topic: Feeding transportable installations from each other
Replies: 2
Views: 2917

Re: Feeding transportable installations from each other

Short answer: connectable installations can be cascaded (one fed from another), but needs care. And seldom worthwhile; as the available current is limited by the first one in the string. If there's provision for only one connectable installation, then it isn't a "caravan park" under definition in ES...
by AlecK
Wed Jan 05, 2022 10:22 am
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Neutral Screen Cable
Replies: 8
Views: 7352

Re: Neutral Screen Cable

WRT DougP's statement that using screen as active won't comply with 3.9.4.4 (for protection against mechanical damage, when required by either 3.9.4.2 or 3.9.4.3.2); I agree; but we have no info as to whether any such mechanical protection is required in this case. Being a "builder's temp"; seems un...
by AlecK
Tue Dec 21, 2021 11:54 am
Forum: Distribution, Networks & Metering
Topic: Splitting one house into two
Replies: 1
Views: 3220

Re: Splitting one house into two

Where an installation is set up with multiple occupancies. Not difficult. Setting up a single installation with multiple occupancies is relatively straightforward; but needs care when converting an existing installation that wasn't originally designed & installed for this arrangement. Setting up two...
by AlecK
Mon Dec 20, 2021 1:39 pm
Forum: Selection and Installation of Wiring Systems
Topic: Neutral Screen Cable
Replies: 8
Views: 7352

Re: Neutral Screen Cable

First; 5.5.3.2 (b) is not relevant. It's a clause about how (ie at which end) you earth a screen (or armour or sheath), IF it is required to be earthed. Thar's why it's under 5.5 "earthing arrangements". what's required to be earthed is in 5.4 "earthing of equipment". Where the screen of a N/S cable...
by AlecK
Mon Dec 13, 2021 3:37 pm
Forum: Appliances
Topic: 220V and 380V electrical equipment
Replies: 6
Views: 5017

Re: 220V and 380V electrical equipment

Good question.
Not the only area where what ES say, and what they've put into ESRs, are not fully aligned.

In the end it's down to individual electrical worker as to whether they are prepared to connect something
- bearing in mind the fact of having connected it goes on the record via ESC.
by AlecK
Mon Dec 13, 2021 3:27 pm
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

WRT 5.3.5.3; yes it's only for the MEN link- and really just an oversight I believe. WRT wording of 3.8.2 ), the word "only"does not appear. So the effect is that the stated options are specifically permitted, and other options are not prohibited. For (c); the specifically permitted options include ...
by AlecK
Mon Dec 13, 2021 11:08 am
Forum: Appliances
Topic: 220V and 380V electrical equipment
Replies: 6
Views: 5017

Re: 220V and 380V electrical equipment

Energy Safety regard such appliance / fittings as electrically unsafe. The marked voltage rating have to either state '230 V" or a range that includes 230 V. I'm sure this will be on Worksafe website somewhere - but may be hard to find. They also recently explained that RCDs marked '240 V" were not ...
by AlecK
Mon Dec 13, 2021 10:59 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

Your interpretation is correct in that it is non-compliant to install bare PECs [5.3.2.4]. Also that 3.8.1 forbids use of green-only to identify PECs by colour - although 5.3.5.3 permits it. And that these rules have an effect on re-routing parts of existing circuits WRT sleeving; 3.8.2 does not pro...
by AlecK
Fri Dec 10, 2021 12:00 pm
Forum: Generators and Solar
Topic: Is stand alone system inspectable
Replies: 9
Views: 6806

Re: Is stand alone system inspectable

Yes; ESR 4(2 ) says any definition in Act or ESRs over-rides a definition of same term on a Standard. It can work the other way also, as per ESR 4(3); with terms used in ESRs, but not defined in act or ESRs, carrying definitions from "3000" (for installations) or IEC 60050. Therefore "electrical ins...