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Wiring testing

garyolly

I work on bespoke training equipment for the defence industry. Due to a recent contract change, we are once again going through a Demarcation phase. One party has accepted testing responsibilities up to and including the circuit breaker panels that supply my equipment. Another party is now suggesting that all cabling going forward to motors, winches, control circuits etc, need to be tested. I regularly test motor windings and all junction boxes at the equipment but have never felt the need to test the cabling running from the breaker panel to the junction box. I have always assumed (i know, never assume) that should a fault arise with the cables, I would diagnose, fix and record. Should I be testing the control cables or not? Earth testing is completed annually, P.A.T testing for portables is completed annually.  Thanks   

  • 0

    Hello Gary.

    In my experience, unnecessarily disturbing any control wiring requires great skill, patience and an accurate SLD. It can create many frustrating problems and some potential malfunctions can be dangerous. Insulation testing into those circuits often causes confusion and achieves little other than causing potential damage. My approach has been to set a “reasonable” inspection period, then inspect and test the supply circuit for insulation and earth continuity, and only the major item(s) downstream of the control centre.  Thermostats, solenoids, control relays, switches etc. are best left alone. For the panel control wiring I do a close visual inspection of everything in there and a “budge” test for any loose connections. Most terminals will still be tight and “graunching” any tighter may cause damage. Anything on the “budge” test that moves needs careful investigation and attention with a screwdriver.

    Regards, Colin.

     

  • 0

    Hi David, this is not a commercial or private landlord site. Many of the cables and control circuits are in different areas and buildings. One party has already accepted responsibility for lighting and domestic services. It's just our heavy plant that is the sticking point. 

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