EIC Clarification RCD

[Roger]

Evening All,

When filing out a EIC test schedule I test all circuits that have RCD protection individually ?.I have a split load board and as such each RCD controls a number of circuits.Do I have to test each circuit and record each value 1x and 5x and do 180 degrees.So if i have 5 circuits protected by 1 RCD that RCD gets tested a total of 20 times.Is that right ? all measured Zs are well within spec.So in theory the RCD should all trip within the stated time.Or can I just pick one circuit preferably with a socket outlet to test that RCD so in effect it only gets tested 4 times that being 1x ,5x and then repeat 180 degrees.

I am receiving mixed reports on this and my assessment is soon.I have previously tested every circuit but have been told I don't have to.It would save some time.

Thank you

 

[acat]

Just use one circuit for each RCD whatever readings you get will cover the rest of the circuits

Hope that helps


Chris

 

[Des 56]

An Rcd will have a particular characteristic
It operates at a certain level in a given time period

That characteristic is constant ,it can however be influenced by circuit loads etc

if you are testing different circuits with the same rcd, you are wasting your time and may be getting various readings for the different circuits

The ideal way to determine the characteristic of your particular rcd is to test at source with no loads connected
In reality this is mostly done at a conveniant position at a socket or such

An Rcd that is tested,it will be the same reading for all circuits protected by that Rcd

 

[JUD]

I put the RCDs down on seperate lines and then all circuits controlled by an RCD underneath.

Something like this:

Then you can just record the RCD results on the row the RCD is on.

 

[Spudnik]

I do as JUD, however, i always test at the CU.

I cant be bothered to keep walking back to the CU to reset the RCD every test at a socket.