Discuss Quick Question(s) - BS4343 Sockets - switched/interlocked or not? in the Electrical Forum area at ElectriciansForums.net

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Hi all.

I am looking to fit a couple of blue 230V single phase 32A sockets for a portable welder in a workshop. Indoors. Though the welder has the option to be outdoors on a long flex. Two sockets as it gets wheeled around and used in two locations and the current long extension flex gets in the way.

Questions:

1) Do the sockets need to be on their own radial circuit? (I'm assuming so as the potential for them pulling close to 32A is high, the welder is rated 25A)
2) Is there a reg that says they have to be the switched 'interlock' sort of socket, or just normal angled sockets with a flap?
3) Run off a phase from the 3ph panel through a 30mA 100A RCD and 32A MCB, or ...just a 32A MCBO??? I presume it should have an RCD even though it's a 32A socket?

Many thanks in advance.
 
Ideally they should be on their own 32A protective device with 30ma additional rcd protection. There is no requirements for an interlocked switch although this can help preserve contact surfaces to prevent a plug being inserted under load.
 
I always fit rotary switched interlock sockets. They are cheap enough and a much better option than unswitched.
 
If you only have the one welder, then a single radial will suffice.
You could possibly get away without providing RCD protection if you produce a Risk Assessment that concludes RCD protection is not required.
 
If you put them on the same radial it may be difficult to terminate 2 cables in the same terminal also I use Interlock sockets as there is normally more room to terminate the cables in . But as westward said I don't know any reg that states you have to use Interlock ones unless the manufacturer instructions of the welder requires it.
 
Certain regulatinons for their use would come into play depending on the environment and the associated risks that could arise from non interlock sockets being used
 

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