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Meterbox as BTS
Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2021 9:54 pm
by Nathan
I saw a house recently that had the meterbox set up as the BTS, Main earth to the meterbox, MEN link, neutral earth bars, 1 x MCB and 1 x double power point and of course single insulated wiring (yip I know it doesnt comply as a BTS)
From what I can tell thn that is now the finished product and is going to stay like that with a DB in the garage of the house.
Im wondering if having 1 MCB in the meterbox with 1 powerpoint (plus main earth, MEN etc) enough to be able to call it a main switchboard?
Re: Meterbox as BTS
Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2021 9:38 am
by DougP
This is what I picked as the important parts that make it a main switchboard, rather than just a meter box.
(NOTE: these clause numbers are from 3000:2018 because I made the list for an Australian group - but the same requirements are in 3000:2007)
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Firstly, it must actually be a switchboard, then it needs all the other things that make it a main switchboard. (just listed in the order in the book).
There is a lot of other details in various clauses - but the main points are:
1.4.62 Exposed conductive parts
1.4.121 Switchboard - so there must be protective devices for submains or final subcircuits.
1.4.122 Switchboard, main
1.5.5.4(b) Construction
2.3.3.2 Main switch
2.10.1 Switchboards
2.10.2.3 Location
2.10.2.5 Restricted locations
2.10.4.3 Neutral bar
Fig 5.1 MEN system
5.3.4 Main earthing terminal
5.3.5.1 MEN connection
5.5.1.1 MEC
Re: Meterbox as BTS
Posted: Sat May 15, 2021 7:11 pm
by Chaz
Hey just out of curiosity what's the clause for the use of single insulated wiring? Trying to find it.
3000 3.10.1.1 Exceptions says single insulation is ok or is it 3012?
Re: Meterbox as BTS
Posted: Sun May 16, 2021 9:44 am
by JamieP
I think it's the fact that that exception only allows single insulation "provided that such cables are not exposed to touch during normal switching or meter-reading operations"
Re: Meterbox as BTS
Posted: Sun May 16, 2021 12:21 pm
by Dan L
Keeping in mind what others have said above the first switchboard from point of supply must be a MAIN MEN SWITCHBOARD.
If it controls sub circuits and or sub mains ( even 1) then it will have to be a main men switchboard and comply with all the requirements of a main switchboard mentioned in Dougs list above.
If it just controls mains its not a switchboard. Just a mains distribution point or if has metering equipment just a metering point.