Standards Australia Wiring Rules amended
Type AC (alternating current) residual current devices (RCD) have commonly been used in Australia for over twenty years, providing basic protection against electric faults and fire by detecting residual currents with a sinusoidal alternating current waveshape.
However, with the increased adoption of renewables, electronics and emerging technologies (such as variable-speed drives, LED lighting, washing machines, dishwashers and tumble dryers), there has been an increasing presence of earth faults with direct current (DC) waveforms in addition to conventional sinusoidal earth faults. This can cause a dangerous situation as these DC waveforms are unable to be detected by standard Type AC RCDs.
To address this, Standards Australia has implemented Amendment 2 of AS/NZS 3000:2018 Cl 2.6.2.2.2 that now requires the use of RCDs that not only detect sinusoidal alternating current, but also identify residual pulsating direct currents.
ABB’s range of Type A, Type F and Type B RCDs are fully compliant with this new requirement.
What does it mean to you?
Type AC RCD will no longer be permitted to be sold or installed in Australia after April 2, 2023. The local market needs to be fully prepared for this change and complete the necessary product transition during 2022.
What is the ABB RCD Offer?
ABB is well prepared to support customers with the migration of Type AC RCDs to Type A, or better, across our product range. The extensive range of ABB solutions include RCCBs and RCBOs in various profiles and ratings to suit every application.
With a consolidated range of RCDs available, ABB continues to provide the right solutions to protect customers’ final sub-circuit in accordance with the new requirements.
Visit our website for more information: resources.ipd.com.au/rcd/
