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BEYOND THE 18TH — MEET HONEYWELL’S METALCLAD CP DOMESTIC CIRCUIT PROTECTION UNIT

Honeywell’s Metalclad CP is a new cost-conscious circuit protection range that meets wiring regulations, offers configurable control of power and is easy to install. So, whether you are working on a larger social housing upgrade, a residential retrofit or a new build project, Ashley Clements-Smith, Senior Channel Lead from Honeywell, looks at how this latest addition to the Honeywell portfolio provides a versatile option that can be adapted to suit the property’s needs, whilst meeting, and exceeding, important IET 18th Edition wiring requirements.

Fully earthed and lockable

Not always a standard feature on consumer units, Metalclad CP is fully earthed to provide end user safety. A lockable lift-up front cover further ensures that the unit cannot be tampered with, making it ideal for homes where safeguarding is a consideration.

Flexible configuration

The Metalclad CP consumer unit comes either empty with a switch disconnector or fully populated with four Type-AC and two Type-A Double Pole Residual Current Devices (RCDs), Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs), and Residual Current Breakers with Overload Protection (RCBOs) - the setup of which can be configured to suit the property’s requirements.

Type-A Residual Current Devices (RCDs)

Newer Type-A RCDs have been included in the latest Metalclad CP and can detect DC fault currents where older Type-AC RCDs are less likely to.

Although the use of these Type-A devices is not mandatory, they are becoming increasingly specified by consultants and contractors and are recommended in the 18th Edition to provide better protection when a property uses LED lighting, heating controls and appliances such as washing machines, induction hobs, dishwashers and fridges.

Type-A RCDs are also mandatory for circuit protection for sites with electric vehicle charging stations.

Arc Fault Detection Devices Options (AFDDs)

AFDDs are an intelligent device designed to monitor the power system and detect dangerous arcs caused by issues like problematic connections in faulty equipment, insulation defects in cables, damaged cables or loose terminal connections. If undetected, these could lead to fires in electrical equipment or the fixed wiring.

Metalclad CP has the option to include two AFDDs so that if an unsafe arc is detected, the AFDDs disconnect the circuit. They are programmed to tell the differences between safe and dangerous arcs, so that normal ones, such as those caused by switching cycles, do not trip the AFDD.

Surge Protection Devices

SPDs are also offered as an optional extra in the Honeywell Metalclad consumer unit.

When lightning strikes, voltage can be induced onto the local power line, causing a sudden rush of voltage entering properties. A Surge Protection Device (SPD) is designed to absorb this voltage to protect properties and their electrical equipment. Although not mandatory, it is a recommendation in the 18th Edition depending on the probability of lightning strikes in an area.

Easy to install

With multiple extra-large knock outs and four point fixing holes to cope with uneven surfaces, Metalclad CP has also been designed to make fitting it quick and simple, whatever the installation.

Honeywell Metalclad Consumer Protection products are available exclusively at Edmundson Electrical stores.

Honeywell, hwll.co/Metalclad