When to use a RCBO?

[shakin2011]

As far as i know an RCBO is basically a RCD+MCB. Now in what situations would I use such a device can you please tell me? I want to understand when to use it. Thx.

 

[i=p/u]

1. tt earthing system

 

[mechelec]

2. any time you want to give an individual circuit combined overcurrent and earthfault protection

 

[sparks1234]

Also, if the price of the job allows then it is often better to use RBCO's as if there is a fault to earth then you only loose 1 circuit. With the normal split load boards then you would loose half the circuits, as usual it comes down to cost

 

[nick611]

also to rectify high zs values on exsisting circuits

 

[LukeD]

I love them and have filled boards with them !

But then again i might use 3 -4 lighting circuits etc for a normal house . The more the merrier in my book

 

[sjm]

RCBO's are the way of the future, IMHO.

 

[Octopus]

great when doing a CU replacement in a very old house or a very small house with few circuits

 

[somersetsparks]

before 17th only ever fitted them in 3 phase DB's or if doing a single phase DB with only 1 or 2 RCD circuits. Personally now I only fit RCBO's even in single phase DB's, as most jobs seem to want every circuit individually protected. Suppose in a domestic situation though, where nuisance tripping doesn't result in 20 computers and half an offices lights going down, you can use the dual RCD setup.

 

[Deleted member 9648]

But they need to make DB's so you can fit the bleedin' things in and still get more than a smoke paper between the top of the RCBO and the N and E bars!!

 

[ian]

But they need to make DB's so you can fit the bleedin' things in and still get more than a smoke paper between the top of the RCBO and the N and E bars!!

Agree with this, they are great but can be akward if using a board full.

 

[lewlec]

Hi all

i think ge make a rcbo the same size as an mcb

regards
gary

 

[Amp David]

Hi all

i think ge make a rcbo the same size as an mcb

regards
gary

Yes they do but who uses GE boards. I tend to find theres plenty of space in MK CUs.


But look here for small RCBOs also, use their standard sized ones and are great

Electrical Components Direct Ltd Compact RCBO Mini RCBO Circuit Breakers