What is an RCD and which power distribution board do I need on the construction site?
RCDs
RCDs must be installed in all CEE power distribution boards. But what is an RCD, what does RCD stand for and what types are there?
Residual current circuit-breakers, also known as RCDs in common parlance, permanently monitor the connected systems and devices of the power distribution board and switch off towards earth in the event of dangerously high residual currents. In this way, RCDs make a significant contribution to reducing life-threatening electrical accidents.
The word RCD consists of the F for the word fault and the I for the symbol of the electrical current.
Basically, there are several types of RCDs. These include the RCD type A and the RCD type B. A type A RCD can detect AC residual currents and pulsating DC residual currents and triggers at residual currents of more than 30 mA. If a residual current flow occurs, the RCD interrupts the circuit at lightning speed. However, unlike a type B RCD, it does not protect against almost smooth DC residual currents. This means that comprehensive personal and system protection is only guaranteed with a type B RCD.
Site power distributor
Our building site power distributors are ideal for use on the building site. These are available in heavy current versions with 16A, 32A and 63A. As described above, these must always be equipped with an all-current-sensitive RCD (RCD type B). Compared to the 32A power distributors, the 63A power distributors have a larger socket and a larger cable cross-section. The sockets of the 63A power distributor have a higher load capacity and are equipped with more fuses than those of the 32A power distributors.
You should pay attention to the following basic features of construction site power distributors:
- oil-resistant RN cable
for permanent outdoor use - RCD protection
for your own safety - Sufficient sockets
16A protective contact sockets, resilient 16A & 32A sockets - IP44
Foreign body and splash water protection