16A distros, RCD's etc ?

[Phil]

Im just curious what the standards are for wiring using C form?
Im guessing the main one is as they dont have fuses, they must go into a RCD breaker?

I was looking at building up a plate with 16A in for my racks ( I want to make the move to Cee form as they are more robust )
I may just keep my inlets Cee form as it seems easier and safer for now and have them down to a 13A plug so its all fused etc.

I was also looking into making a distro. not me personally but my dad builds all the kitchens for the MOD on the ships (where 3 phase is bolted on the side of stainless ovens and all that) so he could easily make my a double insulated SAFE and working distro.

Im Just researching this at the minute.
Any opinions?

Cheers
Phil

[John Bell]

This link goes to an interesting debate.
www.abtt.org.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=1027

[a1dl]

Hi Phil

The general principles:

On a distro board, each ceeform outlet should be protected by a suitably rated MCB (16a, 32a, 63a, 125a)

Jumpers "up" do not need protection (eg: 13a to 16a, 13a to 32a, 16a to 32a, etc). These jumpers are commonplace, take the example of a standard 32a inlet on an amplifier rack. When the rack is used in small venues without industrial outlets, the 13a to 32a jumper in 1.5mm means the rack can be powered from a 13a domestic outlet.

Jumpers "down" need protection. Marquee companies often choose to ignore this fact and make up unprotected jumpers (32a to 2x16a, 32a to 4x13a) which in a fault or overload condition may exceed the current rating of the connectors and/or cable.

Use HO7 RNF (rubber sheath) cabling. BS7909(2008) specifies that arctic cable is not suitable for event power as the outer sheath is prone to split.

Have a look at www.rubberbox.co.uk for different distros. The advantage of the rubber box distros over flightcased units is they are more weatherproof and can be used outdoors.

When buying a distro, it is a good idea to buy a 63a and have a 32a to 63a jumper as well as a 63a-63a supply cable. That way you have the flexibility to connect to either 63a or 32a at a venue.

Hope this helps.

Tony