outdoor switched fcu

[nabby68]

could anybody advise as to if such a thing exsists?

and if so could you point me to it?

 

[Spark123]

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_In...cessories_Index/Weatherproof_Spurs/index.html

 

[nabby68]

thanks spark 123.
have looked at the link, i will be using a switched fused spur for some outdoor lighting, can the relevant switched fcu's take swa?
and can i swap the fuses for 3amp fuses?

 

[ban-all-sheds]

No and yes.

 

[securespark]

qvs-direct.co.uk have two suitable spurs. You can terminate SWA in at least one of them (I've done it). Just make sure the sheath has earth continuity.

The Powerbreaker WN93 MNC is an RCD spur (2 gang size) in a weatherproof box to IP55. The advantage of this model over the more usual H92IP is that you don't need a tool to get the lid off to reset the rcd.....However, the H92IP is IP67 rated.

The other one they do, as straight weatherproof switched spur without RCD is a Lewden MW13SP to IP66.

Also, I'm not sure if they have a spur in the range, but WF have just released their own (alto) brand of WP stuff made by GET. Worth a phone call.

 

[nabby68]

thanks for the advice secure spark.
was thinking of using a conductor in the swa for the earth.
what do you think?

 

[securespark]

Yes, fine. But earth the armour too.

 

[nabby68]

am i right in saying that the way to earth the armour is through the gland?
and how would i do this with a plastic outdoor socket?
would it be a case of soldering an earth to the armour?

 

[Adam_151]

you use the earth tag on the gland, a bolt and a 'hoop' crimp terminal

or you can get what are called 'earth nuts' that replace both the earth tag and locking nut, which means you don't have to drill a hole in the enclosure next to the gland, and thus don't compomise IP rateing

http://www.qvsdirect.co.uk/acatalog/EarthNuts.html

 

[plugwash]

i dunno how similar other brands are but i wouldn't particualarlly wan't to use a masterseal switched FCU outside if i thought it would need to be switched very often as you have to open the bloody cover to switch it.

if its just lighting you wan't outside i'd put the fuse indoors and use a normal outdoor switch if you wan't outside switching. if you wan't other stuff outside as well i'd suggest seperate protection and switching possibbly using a small IP rated CU.