Discuss Recording of 3-Phase Circuits in the Periodic Inspection Reporting & Certification area at ElectriciansForums.net

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Hi all!

So, I was filling out a test sheet for a number of 3-phase circuits we did an EICR on.

For years whenever a 3-phase circuit exists I have recorded them on a single line (eg. 1/TP or 1/L123) and recorded the highest or lowest value applicable to that particular test regardless of phase. Something the NIC has never taken issue with.

A friend of mine claimed that it was wrong and should in fact be recorded as individual lines per phase. This seemed unnecessary to me as we are only really interested in the most detrimental. His argument was that if there is a variable in one phase that might mean the high reading we record is due to possible degradation or loose connections then it will go unrecorded - I counter argued that you could only get the highest of three by testing all three and thus would be aware of the possibility and record it under an ‘observation’

Anyway - I can’t find a general consensus on the matter. Some say mine and some his.

Would love to have this cleared up whether I’m right or wrong!

Thanks!
 
This was my thought. It seemed a waste of time and paper, coupled with the concept that we are only interested in the highest or lowest (depending on the test) for each circuit.
 
What if you have BS88 fuses with different ratings, it happens.

I would personally record the highest rating and make an observation on the other two? If it was IV then you would have to put it right from the outset but the most detrimental in terms of ADS and breaking times would (hypothetically) be the highest of the three.
 
You are not then recording correct details for the circuit.
 
I think it’s acceptable to record it on one line of the schedule for say a 3 phase circuit with a linked 3 phase circuit breaker such as a lift supply for example, 1TP is what I would write down.
Westward does bring up a valid point which can be addressed also
 
You are not then recording correct details for the circuit.
How? In
I think it’s acceptable to record it on one line of the schedule for say a 3 phase circuit with a linked 3 phase circuit breaker such as a lift supply for example

I’m leaning that way too. So if a three phase circuit is supplied by a triple pole breaker then it’s acceptable for a single line, if it can’t be isolated by one breaker/fuse then individual lines for the circuit. Seems convoluted though...
 
How? In


I’m leaning that way too. So if a three phase circuit is supplied by a triple pole breaker then it’s acceptable for a single line, if it can’t be isolated by one breaker/fuse then individual lines for the circuit. Seems convoluted though...
I’ve always done it as one line for linked circuit breakers
 
You are not then recording correct details for the circuit.

Sorry about that! Stumbling my way through the format a bit here

I see where you’re coming from, but of a hypothetical 2x 15a BS88’s and 1x 20a BS88 the only one we’re interested in is the 20a, surely? As this provides greater limitations on that circuit.

Thanks for the replies!
 
It isn't hypothetical it occurs. I recently had a three phase submain with 50, 60 and 63A fuses, I always record three lines so it isn't a problem. It isn't a case of recording the worst scenario but recording the circuit details.
 
It isn't hypothetical it occurs. I recently had a three phase submain with 50, 60 and 63A fuses, I always record three lines so it isn't a problem. It isn't a case of recording the worst scenario but recording the circuit details.

By ‘hypothetical’ I’m referring to an imaginary situation as opposed to questioning its existence entirely, sorry if that wasn’t clear.

I’ve got a good idea of how to proceed now, including your own contribution.

Thanks for your help
 
I've always recorded one line per phase, so it matches the DB layout when you look at it.
 
It isn't hypothetical it occurs. I recently had a three phase submain with 50, 60 and 63A fuses, I always record three lines so it isn't a problem. It isn't a case of recording the worst scenario but recording the circuit details.

I would have concerns about that submain.
was it originaly designed as a 50A submain (TP) and fuses have been "upped" to stop them from having to be replaced regularly.
or a 63A TP submain where they have blown a fuse or 2 and not refitted the correct one.

Surely not a three phase submain with different ratings for each phase was the original design??
 
No they would have been 60s. Things happen over the years and change happens.
 
I agree with Westward on his scenario. Either way can be used if all the figures are the same. IF the incoming Ze is different on each phase this will follow through then I would take the highest reading throughout.
 

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