AFDD's - A Complete Guide

AFDD (Arc Fault Detection Device)

In today's modern world, electricity powers our lives in countless ways. However, electrical faults can pose serious risks, including fire hazards. To mitigate these dangers, the UK's wiring regulations, known as the 18th Edition Amendments, have introduced an important safety feature called Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs). In this article, we will explore the technical aspects of AFDDs, their role in electrical installations, and how they contribute to a safer environment for both residential and commercial properties.

What are AFDDs?

An Arc Fault Detection Device (AFDD) is an advanced electrical safety device designed to detect and mitigate the risks associated with arc faults. Arc faults occur when an unintended electrical discharge passes through an air gap between conductors, potentially causing intense heat and sparks that can lead to fires. AFDDs continuously monitor electrical circuits, identifying dangerous arc faults and disconnecting the power supply to prevent fires from occurring.

Technical Details of AFDDs

AFDDs combine several technologies to detect different types of arc faults effectively. These devices incorporate:

Overload and Short-Circuit Protection: AFDDs offer the same level of protection as traditional circuit breakers by detecting excessive current flow or short circuits and interrupting the power supply when necessary.

Arc Fault Detection Technology: AFDDs use advanced algorithms and sensors to identify characteristic signatures of arc faults, such as rapid changes in current and voltage waveforms, high-frequency noise, and other patterns that indicate the presence of an arc fault.

Arc Fault Interruption: When an AFDD detects an arc fault, it responds by quickly interrupting the electrical current, thus preventing the arc from continuing and potentially causing a fire.

AFDD Integration with UK Wiring Regulations/18th Edition Amendments

The 18th Edition Amendments of the UK wiring regulations, published in 2018, require the installation of AFDDs in certain types of electrical circuits. These amendments acknowledge the growing importance of fire prevention and aim to enhance the safety of electrical installations. Key points regarding AFDDs and the 18th Edition Amendments include:

Residential Properties: From January 1, 2019, AFDDs are required for circuits supplying socket outlets rated up to 20 amperes (A) in dwelling units.

Selective Installation: In situations where retrofitting AFDDs is not feasible due to technical limitations or cost considerations, alternative measures must be taken to mitigate the risks associated with arc faults.

Installation Requirements: AFDDs should comply with the relevant product standards, installation instructions, and manufacturer guidelines. They should be installed by competent professionals who understand the specific requirements for their correct operation.

Benefits of AFDDs

AFDDs offer numerous advantages that contribute to enhanced electrical safety:

Fire Prevention: By detecting and interrupting arc faults at an early stage, AFDDs significantly reduce the risk of fires caused by electrical faults, protecting lives and properties.

Enhanced Protection: AFDDs provide additional protection beyond traditional circuit breakers, which mainly focus on overcurrent and short-circuit protection. This added layer of safety ensures comprehensive coverage against potential fire hazards.

Integration with Smart Home Systems: AFDDs can be integrated into smart home systems, allowing homeowners to monitor electrical circuits remotely, receive real-time alerts about faults, and take prompt action if necessary.

Compliance with Regulations: AFDD installation ensures compliance with the 18th Edition Amendments of the UK wiring regulations, fostering a safer environment for residents and maintaining regulatory standards.

Lewden AFDD's

Lewden's AFDDs exceed the safety requirements outlined in the 18th edition wiring regulations (BS7671:2018+A2:2022), providing unmatched protection against electrical fires caused by arc faults.

Notable features include:

• Current ratings of 6-40A, incorporated within a single module width.
• Incorporating a 30mA type A RCD and a 6kA MCB.
• The switched Neutral pole makes it ideal for installations with TT Earthing Systems where all live conductors must be disconnected to achieve safe isolation (BS7671:2018 Regulation 462).
• Upon an electrical fault, the P4 device trips. The LED will then flash in sequence upon re-closing, signifying the reason for the last break of the circuit.
• For reassurance of safety and quality, the Lewden P4 Series Combined AFDD & RCBO has been independently laboratory tested and certified by Intertek. The device also carries the European safety 'S Mark', a voluntary certification scheme demonstrating that the product continually meets all relevant technical safety requirements.

Hager AFDD's

Hager, a renowned manufacturer of electrical devices, offers a range of AFDDs that comply with the UK's wiring regulations. Hager AFDDs are designed to provide reliable arc fault detection and interruption, ensuring optimal safety in electrical installations.

Key Features of Hager AFDDs

• Enhanced Sensitivity: Hager AFDDs are equipped with advanced algorithms and sensors that provide high sensitivity in detecting various types of arc faults, including series and parallel arcs.
• Selective Tripping: These devices are engineered to selectively interrupt the circuit affected by the arc fault while maintaining power supply to unaffected circuits, minimizing disruptions and downtime.
• Integration Capabilities: Hager AFDDs can be integrated into Hager's wider range of electrical devices and smart home systems, enabling seamless control, monitoring, and remote management of electrical circuits.

Fusebox AFDD

Fusebox is another reputable brand that offers AFDDs designed to meet the safety requirements outlined in the UK wiring regulations. Fusebox AFDDs combine reliable arc fault detection with advanced circuit protection, offering comprehensive electrical safety solutions.

Key Features of Fusebox AFDDs

• High-Quality Construction: Fusebox AFDDs are built with durable components to ensure long-lasting performance and reliable protection against arc faults.
• Easy Installation: These devices are designed for straightforward installation by qualified electricians, following the manufacturer's instructions and the relevant wiring regulations.
• Wide Application Range: Fusebox AFDDs are suitable for various residential and commercial applications, providing safety and peace of mind in diverse electrical installations.

It's worth noting that specific technical details and features may vary depending on the model and version of the AFDDs offered by Hager and Fusebox. When considering the installation of AFDDs, it is essential to consult the manufacturers' guidelines, seek professional advice, and ensure compliance with the 18th Edition Amendments of the UK wiring regulations.

Both Hager and Fusebox offer reliable and compliant AFDD solutions that contribute to a safer electrical environment by effectively detecting and mitigating the risks associated with arc faults. These devices play a vital role in meeting regulatory requirements and enhancing the overall safety of electrical installations in the UK.

Conclusion

Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) represent a significant advancement in electrical safety, particularly in the context of the UK's 18th Edition Amendments. By effectively detecting and interrupting arc faults, AFDDs help prevent fires caused by electrical faults and provide an additional layer of protection beyond traditional circuit breakers. Embracing AFDD technology contributes to a safer and more secure environment for both residential and commercial properties, making them an essential component of modern electrical installations.

Please see our range of Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) here!