AFDDs – 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 . 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 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

• Overload and Short-Circuit Protection: They 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: They 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, they are required for circuits supplying socket outlets rated up to 20 amperes (A) in dwelling units.
• Selective Installation: In situations where retrofitting them 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: They 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: They 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.

Live Electrical AFDDs

Live Electrical offers a range of AFDDs that meet the rigorous safety standards of the UK’s 18th Edition wiring regulations (BS7671:2018+A2:2022), providing top-tier protection against arc faults and electrical fires.

Notable features of Live Electrical AFDDs include:

• Current Ratings of 6-40A: Live Electrical AFDDs offer a variety of current ratings, suitable for different types of installations, all within a single module width.
• Switched Neutral Pole: This feature makes the AFDD ideal for installations with TT earthing systems, as it ensures that all live conductors are disconnected to achieve safe isolation, in compliance with BS7671:2018 Regulation 462.
• LED Indicators: When the device trips due to an electrical fault, the LED will flash in sequence upon re-closing, providing a visual indication of the reason for the last circuit break.
• Independent Testing and Certification: Live Electrical AFDDs are rigorously tested and certified by independent laboratories, ensuring that they meet the highest safety and quality standards.

Hager AFDDs

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

Key features of Hager AFDDs include:

• Enhanced Sensitivity: Hager AFDDs come equipped with advanced algorithms and sensors, providing high sensitivity in detecting various types of arc faults, including both 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. This minimizes disruptions and ensures the uninterrupted operation of non-faulted circuits.
• Integration Capabilities: Hager AFDDs can be integrated seamlessly with the company’s wider range of electrical devices and smart home systems. This integration allows for easy control, monitoring, and remote management of electrical circuits.

Fusebox AFDDs

Fusebox is another trusted name in the AFDD market, offering reliable arc fault detection combined with advanced circuit protection for a range of residential and commercial applications.

Key features of Fusebox AFDDs include:

• High-Quality Construction: Fusebox AFDDs are designed with durable components to ensure long-lasting performance and dependable protection against arc faults.
• Easy Installation: These AFDDs are user-friendly, designed for straightforward installation by qualified electricians who follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wiring regulations.
• Wide Application Range: Fusebox AFDDs are suitable for various installations, including residential homes, commercial properties, and more, offering peace of mind and enhanced electrical safety in a wide range of environments.

It’s important to note that specific technical details and features of AFDDs from different manufacturers may vary. When considering the installation of AFDDs, it is essential to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines, seek professional advice, and ensure full compliance with the 18th Edition Amendments of the UK wiring regulations.

Conclusion

Arc Fault Detection Devices represent a significant advancement in electrical safety, especially within 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 that goes beyond traditional circuit breakers. Integrating this technology into electrical installations enhances overall safety, contributing to a secure environment for both residential and commercial properties.

Whether choosing AFDDs from Live Electrical, Hager, or Fusebox, it’s clear that these devices are an essential component of modern electrical safety. They meet regulatory standards and significantly reduce the risks associated with arc faults, offering protection, peace of mind, and regulatory compliance.

Explore our range of Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) today!