Metal Consumer Unit - Cable entries?

[SharpSparks]

If you are unable to attach a gland to the consumer unit due to having limited space above it (which is where the cables run down) what can you attach or use for the cable entries? Silicone, bush and lock nut?

 

[Andy78]

Same methods as with a plastic consumer unit as the IP ratings required for enclosures have not altered. Trunking, boxwork, or blind grommets would all be on my list way above a hole gunked up with silicone sealant.

 

[Leesparkykent]

Semi blind grommets https://www.edwardes.co.uk/en/categories/wiska-clixx-grommets

 

[Octopus]

2 bits of wood and use the rear openings!

 

[Swcfisher]

Wiska Quixx Kit IP66 20mm 25mm 32mm Membrane Grommet Kit C/w 14 Pieces | QVS Electrical Wholesalers a pack of these

 

[SharpSparks]

Thanks guys. Wasn't sure on what is/isn't acceptable as the property I'm rewiring will most likely be up for nic inspection. What's confusing me is that metal boards now have to be fitted but plastic can still be used for cable entries. What is the point in that? Or is it just me misunderstanding why the ammendment has been made?

 

[Midwest]

Various threads on this subject for some time now. Reg 421.1.201 requires non combustible CU (domestic properties), non ferrous metal is deemed to be a way of achieving that. No mentioned or recommendation of using metal glands, but you can if you want. Only requirement, as it has previously been required, is to maintain the applicable IP ratings. Therefore bespoke glands or blind grommets as has been suggested, trunking, or utilise rear entry for cables. It is only the CU (or similar switch gear assemblies) that now has to be metal, not the method of entry.

 

[SharpSparks]

Brilliant. Sums it all up thanks very much

 

[HappyHippyDad]

If you are unable to attach a gland to the consumer unit due to having limited space above it (which is where the cables run down) what can you attach or use for the cable entries? Silicone, bush and lock nut?

I've just been having a similar dilemma and there are actually many different options for maintaining the IP rating when coming in from above SS. See the link to the thread below, but it really just covers what has already been said above although perhaps in a bit more detail. I especially like the video in post 19 which gives you a few options for top entry in order to maintain the IP4X requirement. Saying that, I did exactly as Murdoch has said in post 4 of this thread and just put 2 pieces of 3x2 battens behind, nice bit of plywood for the CU to go on and then brought the cables in through the back therefore negating the need for the IP4X requirement.

I did still use a wiska gland for the tails and main earth though (on the side), which maybe a thought for you if this is a TT (although to be honest I think a 40mm stuffing gland would have sufficed).

http://www.electriciansforums.co.uk...09474-maintaining-ip4x-top-entry-into-cu.html

 

[zoomer]

Using wood is not compliant with regs what about fire rating pointless changing to metal db

 

[Midwest]

Using wood is not compliant with regs what about fire rating pointless changing to metal db

How so?

 

[snowhead]

Using wood is not compliant with regs what about fire rating pointless changing to metal db

Reg Number?

The point of metal DB's is to contain the fire.

 

[LankyWill]

unless the board is in a wet area the ip rating doesnt have to be maintained :army:. Id go for the wood option with rear entry. oo er

 

[Andy78]

unless the board is in a wet area the ip rating doesnt have to be maintained :army:. Id go for the wood option with rear entry. oo er

The IP rating must be maintained in line with the regulation that covers enclosures and their minimum IP ratings.

 

[Octopus]

Using wood is not compliant with regs what about fire rating pointless changing to metal db

So you can't fix a shiny new metal CU to a wooden structure - really?

 

[Flanders]

unless the board is in a wet area the ip rating doesnt have to be maintained :army:. Id go for the wood option with rear entry. oo er

ip ratting is not just for water ingress it is for dust aswell i think it ip4x for the top of a consumer unit

 

[LankyWill]

as long as you havent chewed a massive gaping whole in the top, a slot for cables will be fine. Im sure common sense comes into play...

 

[Midwest]

Think we are going round in circles, the OP was answered by post 9.

 

[Pete999]

IP4X and IP2X of course the IP ratings are relevant in any situation

 

[Risteard]

as long as you havent chewed a massive gaping whole in the top, a slot for cables will be fine. Im sure common sense comes into play...

It must be to a minimum of IP4X / IPXXD for the top side, and IP2X / IPXXB elsewhere.