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Resources

Resources

Short reference notes our customers ask about most. For the exact data on any part, always check the manufacturer's datasheet.

Rolled grey and white cable
Row of white miniature circuit breakers in a distribution board
Circuit protection

MCB tripping curves: B, C and D

The curve letter tells you how much short-lived overcurrent an MCB tolerates before its magnetic trip operates instantly. Pick the curve by the inrush of the load. The bands below are the instantaneous-trip ranges defined in IEC 60898-1, as multiples of the rated current (In).

CurveInstantaneous tripTypical loads
B3 to 5 × InResistive loads, lighting, socket circuits in homes
C5 to 10 × InGeneral commercial and industrial circuits, small motors, fluorescent and LED lighting banks
D10 to 20 × InHigh inrush loads: transformers, large motors, welding equipment
Yellow, blue and black insulated wires
Wires & cables

House wire grades: what the letters mean

House-wire specifications usually name an insulation grade. Brands use their own line names, but the grade letters describe the insulation behaviour.

GradeStands forWhat it means in practice
FRFlame retardantInsulation resists the spread of flame along the wire.
FR-LSHFlame retardant, low smoke and halogenAlso gives off less smoke and halogen gas in a fire. Often specified for high-rise and public buildings.
HR / HRFRHeat resistant (flame retardant)Insulation rated for a higher operating temperature than standard PVC.
LFLead freePVC compound made without lead-based stabilisers.
ZHFR / HFFRZero halogen / halogen-free flame retardantNon-PVC compound with no halogens. Used where toxic and corrosive gases must be avoided.

Match the grade on your specification first, then the make. See house-wire lines we supply.

Wires terminated in an electrical switch box
Motor control

Contactor utilisation categories

A contactor's current rating depends on the kind of load it switches. IEC 60947-4-1 defines utilisation categories; the same contactor has a lower rating in a harder category. Make sure the rating you compare is for your category.

CategoryLoad
AC-1Non-inductive or slightly inductive loads, such as resistance heating
AC-3Squirrel-cage motors: starting, and switching off while running. The usual rating for motor starters
AC-4Squirrel-cage motors with plugging, reversing or inching
Electrician working on an electrical panel with a screwdriver
Enclosures & devices

Reading an IP rating

IP ratings (IEC 60529) have two digits. The first is protection against solid objects and dust, the second against water. Higher is more protection. Some common examples:

RatingSolidsWater
IP20Protected against fingers (objects over 12.5 mm)No protection
IP54Dust protectedSplashing water from any direction
IP65Dust tightWater jets
IP67Dust tightTemporary immersion
Warehouse with rows of shelving
Ordering

What to send with an enquiry

The more of this we have, the faster and more accurate the quote.

  1. Commercial reference for each item, exactly as on the drawing or nameplate.
  2. Quantity per item, and whether deliveries can be split.
  3. Coil or control voltage for contactors, relays and pilot devices.
  4. Motor kW and supply for drives and starters.
  5. Wire grade, size and colour for house wires, and coil length if not standard.
  6. Delivery location and required date.