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Older boards and availability/compatibility of devices

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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  • Rather as is the case if you change the lamps in your car from filament to LED, the chaps that do the MOT will decide if the change is enough to invalidate the approval or make the machine unroadworthy.

    It is more interesting for cars over 40 years old, as there is not only no approval, but no compulsion to have an MOT either.  Most vehicles of that era are also tax exempt as well.

    It could make things quite fun if there was a similar exemption for 40 years old or older electrics.?
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  • Rather as is the case if you change the lamps in your car from filament to LED, the chaps that do the MOT will decide if the change is enough to invalidate the approval or make the machine unroadworthy.

    It is more interesting for cars over 40 years old, as there is not only no approval, but no compulsion to have an MOT either.  Most vehicles of that era are also tax exempt as well.

    It could make things quite fun if there was a similar exemption for 40 years old or older electrics.?
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