Among the significant changes included in Amendment 2 to BS 7671:2018 (18th edition of the IET Wiring Regulations) is a new requirement for Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) in AC final circuits supplying socket-outlets in some types of higher-risk and residential buildings.
Regulation 421.1.7 requires that AFDDs conforming to BS EN 62606 shall be provided for single-phase AC final circuits supplying socket-outlets with rated current not exceeding 32 A in the following:
- Higher Risk Residential Buildings (HRRB)
- Houses of multiple occupancies (HMO)
- Purpose-built student accommodation
- Care homes
Higher Risk Residential Buildings (HRRB)
Where used, AFDDs shall be placed at the origin of the circuit to be protected
HRRBs are assumed to be residential buildings over 18 m in height or more than six stories, whichever is met first.
For all other premises, the use of AFDDs conforming to BS EN 62606 is recommended for single-phase AC final circuits supplying socket outlets not exceeding 32 A. Where used, AFDDs shall be placed at the origin of the circuit to be protected.
Elucian by Click
Amendment 2 was published on 28 March 2022 and comes into full force on 28th September 2022. Scolmore is pleased to announce that it has added a comprehensive range of AFDDs to its Elucian by Click consumer unit and protective devices collection.
The new range comprises Type A 1 Pole + Neutral True 6 kA B Curve & C Curve 30 mA Trip AFDDs with integral RCBOs, which are available in 6 A, 10 A, 16 A, 20 A, 32 A & 40 A, and complete with 450 mm neutral out tails.
Features and benefits
Key features and benefits of the Elucian AFDDs with integral RCBOs are as follows:
- Arc fault detection – providing a form of protection that pre-existing devices that are mandatory as part of the 18thedition wiring regulations cannot provide.
- Fault reporting – reports 5 different types of fault conditions. Each fault condition has its own unique LED flashing sequence pattern that signifies the reason why the AFDD has tripped.
- Self-Test – inbuilt self-test function to ensure the device is fully operational.
- Green LED Indication – for a clear, visual representation of the flashing sequence to determine fault condition.
- BS EN 62606 & BS EN 61009-1 Compliant – to cover the general rules and requirements for Arc Fault Detection Devices & Residual current operated circuit-breakers with integral overcurrent protection.
- Range Available – 6 A, 10 A, 16 A, 20 A, 32 A & 40 A to completely harmonise with the existing range of Elucian RCBOs.
- B & C Trip Curves Available – to cover both short circuit trip times.
- 18 mm Single Width Size – to harmonize with the existing range of Elucian RCBOs and circuit-breakers, only taking up a single din rail space to fit seamlessly into the Elucian range or any existing Elucian installation.
- Neutral Out Tails – 450 mm length supplied as standard.