Radial Circuit

At a glance..

A radial circuit is a mains power circuit found in some homes to feed sockets and lighting points. It is simply a length of appropriately rated cable feeding one power point then going on to the next. The descriptions here apply to a circuit for power sockets.

The details..

'Radial Circuit' is a guide to mains power circuit found in some homes, which feeds sockets and lighting points. The book provides an insight into the workings of this type of circuitry that terminates with the last point on it rather than returning to the consumer unit or fuse box like ring main. It also highlights how additional wiring can be added to turn a radial circuit into a ring main.

This informative guide covers two types of radial circuits permitted for socket outlets - one protected by a 20 Amp fuse or miniature circuit breaker, while another uses a cartridge fuse up to B888 or miniature circuit breaker rated at 30amp with cable size varying from 2.5mm?to4 mm?. The author emphasizes that units and appliances drawing large amounts of current such as showers and electric cookers must be installed on their own separate circuits.

The book is particularly useful for those living in larger buildings where installing ring mains could double installation costs. Radial circuits are preferred over Ring Mains when cost-effectiveness is considered since they do not require cables running back to consumer units; however, users should ensure that long spurs do not exceed limits set out under building regulations Part P.

Overall, 'Radial Circuits' serves as an essential reference material for homeowners looking forward to understanding more about electrical installations within their properties.