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Older boards and availability/compatibility of devices

psychicwarrior
I know, I know, its been a subject of many threads over the years...but I am bringing it up again.  More a moan I think over the inflexibility (perhaps with good reason I accept sometimes) at times.


Old Volex board - not even split load...all MCB.   In good order, all aspects look lovely.   Ideally, time for a board change....well if you think so ;-)


Now then,  some minor works (circuit extension) would dictate  the requirement for RCD protection.   Solutions, shift the circuit to small outboard BS61008 enclosure; new board...or source and fit RCBO, which seems perfect and is the most cost-effective and simplest...other than...it seems that using another manufacturer RCBO is seriously frowned on... by Volex at least (and I am sure others).   Well I've known this for a while, but never faced a situation where doing so would be the most feasible option.


Is it really that bad to fit another brand device into an old board...what really are the *real* safety risks if the thing is secure and fits.  I cant really think of any other than fluff - assuming its same rating etc and sits nice.


I've heard the phrase type tested and I take it that means that everything in a consumer unit was tested to perform to standards etc when it was made up.  Then putting in a different RCBO means that is now 'broken' as such.


My question and I am just trying to understand the technical and regulatory issues here:  is it not possible at all, to issue a MEIWC to current Regs as a result of putting in a different branded RCBO (I cannot re-do the type testing etc of course!) and where might/is that prohibition backed up in the 'frustrating' Regs Book please ?




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    Zoomup:




    mapj1:

    About 5 years ago I wanted a C type RCBO for a Volex board, and they did not seem to make them.

    However, I rang them up to check and was told that, no they didn't but all their MCBs and so forth used the same internals and metalwork as the Wylex ones, only using a  cheaper printed plastic process, and that it would be fine to fit the Wylex one.

    And indeed it fitted perfectly, and as far as I know it is still in service. If I'd known it would be useful, I'd have asked for it in writing.

     




    ...They are all interchangeable.


    Z.


     




    physically/technically I believe you. Regulatory it would seem not from what is being suggested.

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  • 0

    Zoomup:




    mapj1:

    About 5 years ago I wanted a C type RCBO for a Volex board, and they did not seem to make them.

    However, I rang them up to check and was told that, no they didn't but all their MCBs and so forth used the same internals and metalwork as the Wylex ones, only using a  cheaper printed plastic process, and that it would be fine to fit the Wylex one.

    And indeed it fitted perfectly, and as far as I know it is still in service. If I'd known it would be useful, I'd have asked for it in writing.

     




    ...They are all interchangeable.


    Z.


     




    physically/technically I believe you. Regulatory it would seem not from what is being suggested.

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