Hi all,
First off, I am just a DIYer who only ever does basic work like swapping switches, sockets and light fittings etc.
Not an electrician and am unlikely to train as one (although I came close to doing an apprenticeship when I left school, but I ended up moving into IT instead).
My question is purely out of curiosity.
My understanding is that in a TN-C-S earthing arrangement, the earth for the property is directly bonded to the incoming neutral in the supply/cutout.
I have been told (though never tested the theory) that because we use AC, the neutral conductor will give you exactly the same shock that the live conductor will if the circuit isn't isolated.
I've had plenty of belts off live conductors in my time, but I don't recall ever accidentally touching a neutral to be able to prove or disprove what I've been told.
However, if that is the case, why or how is it one does not get an electric shock from touching the earth or a CPC somewhere in the property, if it bonded to the neutral?
I am likely being daft here, or I am complete wrong about the neutral, but I would appreciate an explanation nonetheless.
Many thanks
Gig
First off, I am just a DIYer who only ever does basic work like swapping switches, sockets and light fittings etc.
Not an electrician and am unlikely to train as one (although I came close to doing an apprenticeship when I left school, but I ended up moving into IT instead).
My question is purely out of curiosity.
My understanding is that in a TN-C-S earthing arrangement, the earth for the property is directly bonded to the incoming neutral in the supply/cutout.
I have been told (though never tested the theory) that because we use AC, the neutral conductor will give you exactly the same shock that the live conductor will if the circuit isn't isolated.
I've had plenty of belts off live conductors in my time, but I don't recall ever accidentally touching a neutral to be able to prove or disprove what I've been told.
However, if that is the case, why or how is it one does not get an electric shock from touching the earth or a CPC somewhere in the property, if it bonded to the neutral?
I am likely being daft here, or I am complete wrong about the neutral, but I would appreciate an explanation nonetheless.
Many thanks
Gig