RCD or Not

[simonspark]

Evening All,
Could one of you fine tradesmen, there's got to be one out there, help me out a bit here. I have been asked to install a ring circuit that is going to supply 17 computers in a school. I know that its going to be an IT install (separate earth terminals and all that) but what about the RCD situation? The regs state that the sockets should be protected by an RCD. But the natural leakage could well trip an RCD. I could split the circuit into two or more rings, but the logistics of doing such a thing are staggering. Trust me! Can I just put labels on each socket stating that they are for IT equipment only? And all wiring is going to be surface (nice!)
I am going to have to thankyou in advance, because the last time I tried such an action I failed.
Thanks

 

[simonspark]

Some sense from Welchyboy. The reason that I cannot do what you have suggested is down to the fact that is an unbelievable building to work in. I am really limited to where I can drill for cable penetration. About 20mm! I considered what you suggested, but without destroying half the room, it aint practicle. But thanks

 

[plugsandsparks]

When i am looking at this type of problem i weigh up pros and cons of RCBOs in CU and RCD sockets. I have even changed my mind mid - install when the wiring problems or not come into play. What i dont do is say, " oh well - too hard, so lets drop the RCD and look for a reg. Computers are improving and their leakage is getting lower from what i can make out but the standards and expectations of the clients and authorities is increasing so .... in general if i fit a socket, one way or another there will be RCD protection

 

[D80]

2 radials would be better than 1 ring if on RCBO's. Still a bit lost on what you meant by IT system in origination post, I'd assume you meant high integrity earthing though.

 

[Welchyboy]

sorry just a correction on my part - if your wiring is all enclosed then your return CPC can be equal to that of your circuit CPC, and yes RCD socket outlets would also be another option

again its juggling regs with cost to find a mutually agreeable solution!

one thing you dont wanna do is do one big ring main with no RCD protection as if this is later pulled up and they want RCD.......ur in the brown stuff my friend