Twin and CPC to outhouse

diditrain · May 22, 2011

Hi all, can someone clarify for me if it is acceptable to run a Twin and CPC sheathed cable to an outhouse. There is an existing alcathene duct in situ, which runs under a patio with an existing supply cable already in place.
Job has not commenced but the question has been raised. I have only ever used SWA so have never given it much thought.

Cable clearly does not have an earthed metallic sheath but is well protected against mechanical damage

Many thank`s

nickblake · May 22, 2011

Think you answered your question in the last paragraph , answer is no , it should be SWA, PVC is prone to rodent attack , water , uv rays etc

Deleted member 26818 · May 22, 2011

Yes it is acceptable.
Mechanical protection may be required.
As may protection against UV.

Octopus · May 22, 2011

Fantastic, a "no" and a "yes" in the first 2 answers!

dim_bulb · May 22, 2011

Why cant you use swa like you usually do?

diditrain · May 23, 2011

I can use SWA, for the external part of the run. The question about re-using the existing duct was put to me and i did not know the answer.

telectrix · May 23, 2011

IMO if the duct provides adequate mechanical protection for the cable, no rfeason why T/E can't be used. SWA is preferable though for longevity.

Mark_Burgess · May 23, 2011

I'd always use SWA, especially after seeing an idiot with a mini digger go through the mains gas supply to one of my neighbours house when digging a trench for drains.

Engineer54 · May 23, 2011

As Spin has stated, yes it is acceptable, providing there is mechanical protection afforded where required throughout it's length. As for rodent attack, ducts should be sealed at each end after cables have been drawn in. Personally i would prefer to use a SWA cable, when installing a sub-main, especially when part of the cable run passes thru exterior space from the main supply location....