Need to extend a RFC - Zs not good enough

[TheReturnOfHightower]

Just after some thoughts on this. I need to extend a RFC, but the Zs isn't good enough to comply (it doesn't comply currently, but it becomes my problem when I touch it). It's currently about 0.70 ohms - what I need to extend it by will be minimal, maybe taking it up to 0.75 ohms. It's protected by a C32 MEM1 RCBO, top of my head that's 0.55 ohms to meet Zs requirements. It could go on a B32 no problem - only feeding a few computers - but, they didn't make B32 RBCOs for MEM1, or if they did I can't find any in the used market.

So, where do I go from here - I can't run a new circuit, a new board is out of the question really at the minute. Does the RCD mean I only need to be looking for 1667 ohms Zs or is that all a bit naughty?

Appreciate any thoughts.

 

[Ian1981]

The regulations allow an rcd to be used for fault protection in a TN arrangement in compliance with table 41.5

 

[FoxxElec90]

RCBO means you only need to comply with the requirements for RCD Zs however I’d check that earth leakage isn’t going to be an issue if the extended circuit will be used for PC’s

 

[telectrix]

why not fit a C20 RCBO?

 

[Crumps]

I believe you would need to get a RCBO pod to fit on those breakers, a bargain at £90!!!

 

[Toneyz]

why not fit a C20 RCBO?

The MEMSHEILD 1 I think was only in 16 and 32A

 

[TheReturnOfHightower]

I can't find a C20 for MEM1, and @Crumps the pod is for MEM2, only £125 a go new from the wholesalers I think last time I needed one.

 

[Toneyz]

What is the existing Zdb and R1+R2 how does it compare with past results could be a loose/poorly tightened in one of the existing.
Since MEM 1 don't forget that we have adjusted for 230v and Cmin so once could have complied.
Whilst a stand-alone RCD can be used to overcome the high loop value I try not to rely on them in this scenario as many a time they are not tested with the test button regularly and left to stick.
How is the existing circuit wired as can additional earth be installed?

 

[TheReturnOfHightower]

The cpc had an r2 of around 0.2something. It was the line that had a value of around 1.7. This is because there's a tonne of conduit and the likes on the run. I've no doubt it once complied, but I've also no doubt this RFC has been previously extended without testing by the installing company. Thing is, 0.75 ohms is a perfectly acceptable reading on a type b.

 

[TheReturnOfHightower]

Here is one. . . .

MEM RCBO 20 Amp 30mA M9 Type C MCB-RCD Memshield 1 20A 201MB3R 3T201R 201MCR - Willrose Electrical - Discontinued & Obsolete Circuit Breakers

Used But Good Condition. MEM Type C MCB-RCD Combination (RCBO) Breaker. Tested @ 0.5x, 1x & 5x - MEM RCBO 20 Amp 30mA M9 Type C MCB-RCD Memshield 1 20A 201MB3R 3T201R 201MCR

willrose-electrical.co.uk

No stock bud, already checked willrose

 

[westward10]

No I realised too late and deleted it.

 

[James]

I have a few of the pods you are referring to.
make me an offer I cant refuse.
anything over £300 will be instantly accepted and I will even clean the dust off.
they are all second hand and have come out of various boards i have changed.

 

[Bellendian]

What about putting a small DIN enclosure adjacent to board with a B32 breaker inside, fed from the MEM C32? A bit heath robinson but compliant?

 

[westward10]

Just use the existing device.

 

[Dave OCD]

I was just going to suggest that, but as you're altering the circuit why not a B32 30ma RCBO in the small enclosure ?