Arc Fault Detection

From 28th September 2022 AFDDs are mandated for socket outlet circuits (up-to 32A rating) in high risk residential buildings, in homes in multiple occupation, in purpose built student accommodation, and in care homes. AFDDs are also recommended for socket outlet circuits (up-to 32A rating) in all other premises.

Electrium AFDDs are easy to install. They are all single module devices, same size as an MCB. They fit into regular consumer units. Take up only one way each, and do not require any special assembly processes or special enclosures. The installation process is the same as it is for an RCBO. Installing & testing Electrium AFDDs is simple, the installation process is already familiar to installers because it’s the same process that installers have been using for RCBOs for decades. The device clips onto the DIN rail, it’s then connected to the busbar, the neutral lead is connected to the neutral bar, and the circuit cables are connected to the device. It’s as simple as that. Testing of the device is also easy, when the device is first powered up it runs an automatic self-test function and will repeat its self-test function every 15 hours. The RCBO element is tested in the same was as any RCD / RCBO, by pressing the test button, or with an RCD tester. There’s an added benefit too from the two pole switching mechanism, there’s no need to disconnect the circuit cables to carry out Insulation & Resistance testing during EICRs. Simply switch the device off and carry out your tests.

Electrium AFDDs include an integral Type A 30mA RCBO. This makes life easy for installers because this single device provides the earth leakage protection, overload protection and short circuit protection that is required, as well as arc fault protection. Plus it’s a two pole switching device that totally isolates any faulty circuit / equipment.

Single module miniature AFDDs from Electrium are fully compatible with final ring circuits (including spurs & appliance leads) and radial circuits too, they will detect serial and parallel arc faults wherever they can occur in both types of circuits.

Testing of Electrium AFDDs is also easy, when the device is first powered up it runs an automatic self-test function and will repeat its self-test function every 15 hours. The RCBO element is tested in the same was as any RCD / RCBO, by pressing the test button, or with an RCD tester. Electrium AFDDs automatically indicate the type of fault that has caused a device to trip. The device will indicate if there’s an earth leakage fault, it will indicate if there is an arc fault, and it will tell you if there’s been an overvoltage. Which will speed up fault finding.

Amendment 2 includes guidance for recommendations, the wiring regulations. The term recommended is used frequently throughout the wiring regulations. Recommended equals should. Designers and installers should ensure that the appropriate levels of safety are achieved by following recommendations.