"Electrical Fault" Definition

[JohnW2]

Two switches would not alter the definition of switchgear.

So, to be clear, you're saying that two or more high-current switches (and nothing else) in a cabinet does not qualify as switchgear?

It seems a little ironic that you appear to be saying that in order for something to qualify as being "switchgear", it must contain something other than just switches. Am I understanding you correctly?

Kind Regards, John

 

[EFLImpudence]

So, to be clear, you're saying that two or more high-current switches (and nothing else) in a cabinet does not qualify as switchgear?

I am only going by the definition of Switchgear.
It is "An assembly of main and auxiliary switching equipment"; Auxiliary being "providing supplementary or additional help and support".
That is by definition not two or more main switches.

It seems a little ironic that you appear to be saying that in order for something to qualify as being "switchgear", it must contain something other than just switches. Am I understanding you correctly?

Other than main switches, yes. As it says, it must contain auxiliary switching equipment.

In addition, the non-combustible regulation only applies to "domestic (household) premises" so the examples you are giving are unlikely to be present.
So, does a single isolator meet the definition of switchgear or indeed is it similar to a consumer unit, given its definition?

 

[JohnW2]

In addition, the non-combustible regulation only applies to "domestic (household) premises" so the examples you are giving are unlikely to be present. So, does a single isolator meet the definition of switchgear or indeed is it similar to a consumer unit, given its definition?

Since this discussion is simply going round in circles of scrutinising the exact wording of BS 7671 definitions, let's try turning the discussion on its head ...

... you seem to be clear enough in your mind as to what does not constitute a "similar switchgear assembly" (similar to a CU), so what do you think does/would/could constitute a "similar switchgear assembly" as far as 421.1.201 is concerned?

Kind Regards, John

 

[EFLImpudence]

Since this discussion is simply going round in circles of scrutinising the exact wording of BS 7671 definitions, let's try turning the discussion on its head ...

The definitions, or their wording, is what we are discussing. Perhaps it is they that are wrong.
I might agree with you about what should be done but it is not what BS7671 states.

... you seem to be clear enough in your mind as to what does not constitute a "similar switchgear assembly" (similar to a CU),

Only because what is written in BS7671 makes that possible.

so what do you think does/would/could constitute a "similar switchgear assembly" as far as 421.1.201 is concerned?

That is a good question.

Perhaps there is none apart from items we would also call a consumer unit.



How many similarities does a switchgear have to have with a consumer unit to be classed as similar?

"A particular type of distribution board comprising

a type-tested co-ordinated assembly for the control and distribution of electrical energy, principally in domestic premises,

incorporating manual means of double-pole isolation on the incoming circuit(s) and

an assembly of one or more fuses, circuit-breakers, residual current operated devices or

signalling and other devices proven during the type-test of the assembly as suitable for such use."

 

[JohnW2]

That is a good question.

Not just a good question but, I would say, THE question ...

... it's all very well your asserting your views about what does not constitute a "similar switchgear assembly" to a CU, but if that part of the reg is to have any useful meaning, we need to know what does.

Kind Regards, John