Buried junction boxes regulations

[Risteard]

Thanks mate, seems odd though, but I don't make the rules, so in conclusion, for it to be a truly MF joint both box and connectors have to be MF?

Sort of. It's maybe the enclosure rather than the connectors which are certified "MF" - but that certification only applies when used with the specified connectors (in this case Wago connectors in the WagoBox). I suppose it's down to how the unit was when it was granted MF certification. So to use something else inside it would negate that.

 

[Risteard]

I use Pratley underground boxes.

I bet your bank balance doesn't like them though!

 

[sparkdog]

Expensive but does a proper job.

 

[Rodger Quinn]

Thanks for the replies, folks.

I have contacted WAGO direct about their IP rated capsules and connectors to make sure they carry the BS5733 marking and the MF logo. If they confirm, I'll place an order with them.

I do wonder if an empty box has to have a particular specification to meet MF spec, and what that may be, or whether it's more to do with the type of conductor securing methods utlised inside that deem it's suitability.

Regards

Rodger

 

[Wilko]

I do wonder if an empty box has to have a particular specification to meet MF spec, and what that may be, or whether it's more to do with the type of conductor securing methods utlised inside that deem it's suitability.

Regards

Rodger

Hi Rodger - the MF logo is seen on the box (if it's an approved one) but for the joint to be 5733 rated as MF, it must have been standards tested and approved as a unit, i.e. connectors and box tested together. So a Wago MF marked box does not make a MF accessory when used with Wago 221 connector for example, as this connector is not yet certified as MF, afaik.

 

[Rodger Quinn]

So technically even the wago capsule can't be rated as MF since it isn't supplied with connectors.

 

[Rodger Quinn]

Reply from wago

Hi Rodger, The Wagobox-Capsule is an adaptable enclosure so you need to cut holes to fit glands to suit the cable you want to use. Consequently BS 5733 MF isn't an applicable standard for this type of enclosure. Bear in mind that the Wagobox-Capsule is designed to be maintainable solution for applications like garden lighting. It can be shallow buried with the appropriate glands but is not intended for deep buried permanent joint applications where you would more typically use a resin filled joint. Hope this feedback is helpful. Please don't hesitate to give us a call if you would like to discuss this further. 01353 666011.

 

[Wilko]

Yes, I think posts 26 and 27 are correct. With my tin hat firmly in place, I try my best to avoid underground cable joints in domestics, as it's usually a cost/time vs longevity. But if necessary to effect a repair I use a resin filled underground cable kit something like these below.

http://www.screwfix.com/p/prysmian-...tracking url&gclid=CKGOl9W27tACFcy17Qodd7YIHQ

 

[Rodger Quinn]

Yeah, I've pretty much resigned myself to using resin joints. Of course, I need the T or Y branch sort which seem to have attached quite the price increase compared to the straight through type. Just my luck.

 

[jackhammerJIM]

Yeah, I've pretty much resigned myself to using resin joints. Of course, I need the T or Y branch sort which seem to have attached quite the price increase compared to the straight through type. Just my luck.

If you are Teeing off in flex use a through joint . Drill a small hole in the top of the jointing kit for the flex . The resin will seal the hole .

 

[Rodger Quinn]

I've already ordered the branch kits

 

[soms]

Not sure about the Prysmian ones but have witnessed two 'Y' resin joints from the wholesaler which were a complete mare, cheap flimsy case with no cable retention whilst performing terminations, so little space to get stuff arranged and such awkward terminations. Then you tape the ends up to hold the resin whilst it sets. Unbelievable really.

 

[Rodger Quinn]

Even the 3M, assuming good quality, ones I saw on Youtube had the ends taped with self amalgamating tape to seal the ends.

 

[Wilko]

Not sure about the Prysmian ones but have witnessed two 'Y' resin joints from the wholesaler which were a complete mare, cheap flimsy case with no cable retention whilst performing terminations, so little space to get stuff arranged and such awkward terminations. Then you tape the ends up to hold the resin whilst it sets. Unbelievable really.

I think you have correctly described them

 

[Andy_G]

I

Thanks mate, seems odd though, but I don't make the rules, so in conclusion, for it to be a truly MF joint both box and connectors have to be MF?

think if the joints are maintenance free but the enclosure wasn't,then that would soon render the 'maintenance free' joints as in need of maintenance, therefore all parts of the system will need to be maintenance free. A chain is as strong as its weakest link is the best analogy I can think of

 

[telectrix]

pretty old hat now, mixing resin and pouring it in, when there's better solutions around. i.e. gel-filled torpedoes that you just make the connections and close the 2 halves together.

Under Ground Cable Joints and Glands - https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_Index/Cable_Accessories_Index/Cable_Joints_1/index.html