Case study: Hager’s AFDD with ProTools in action
Following Amendment 2 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, the use of Arc Fault Detection Devices is now a mandatory requirement in certain settings; higher risk residential buildings, houses of multiple occupation, purpose-built student accommodation and care homes. For all other premises, the use of AFDD is recommended for single-phase AC final circuits supplying socket outlets not exceeding 32A.
Committed to working with the industry, Hager has invested significant R&D resources into the development and extensive testing of the newly launched AFDD with ProTools range to assist contractors in remaining compliant across this area of Amendment 2.
Utilising existing feedback from over 5,000 two-module-wide units and an additional field trial with 300 single module devices, the new AFDD benefits from extensive field trials to guarantee best-in-class performance. Obtaining real-life feedback from these installations, Hager was able to modify the algorithm to accommodate new product signatures prior to market launch, ensuring installers were provided with the ‘fit and forget’ reassurance they have come to expect from Hager products.
Participating in the trial, Hager’s Country Marketing Leader, Ian Smith, had the latest single module device installed in his home. Benefitting from one of Hager’s Design 30 consumer units, the unit was upgraded to include the new single module RCBO AFDD.
With devices benefitting from innovative diagnostic software, ProTools – Onboard Diagnostics detected a Series Arc Fault, with the LED display identifying the fault via a series of red and yellow sequences. Following close monitoring of the circuit, the cause for the trip was quickly identified due to its repetitive nature. With the cause behind the tripping identified as the plug-in EV charger, a trace box was fitted to record the circuit and waveform as the fault occurred.
Subsequently, the technical experts were able to utilise the information provided and analyse the signature and traces of the waveform, modifying the algorithm to ensure the AFDD was no longer susceptible to unwanted tripping. With ProTools – In-Situ Software Upgrades, the software was sent directly to the AFDD when onsite at the property, using Bluetooth technology to connect to the device within the consumer unit and send the updated algorithm. With the software upgraded and the unwanted tripping resolved, the new algorithm has been incorporated into the software in all of Hager’s single module RCBO AFDDs and MCB AFDDs as standard.
Commenting on his experience with the trial, Ian Smith comments, “From an end-customer perspective, it was reassuring to see how quickly we can react and resolve unwanted tripping for our installers and their customers. The arrival of new technologies, such as an EV charger, is just one example of the complex and sophisticated electrical equipment that will be introduced in the majority of homes over the next decade. Our new AFDD with ProTools is ideally placed to support installers in shaping the electrical world of tomorrow.”
As the reality of the Amendment 2 changes take effect, installers need to be mindful of both the mandated and recommended arc fault detection requirements. With Hager’s new AFDD with ProTools, installers are supported in meeting the important regulation changes.
For more information on the new Arc Fault Detection Device with ProTools, please visit: https://hager.link/AFDD-with-ProTools/more-info.
