Final Circuit and Load Estimation British Standard

Electrical Installation Design
CHAPTER 2
FINAL CIRCUIT AND LOAD ESTIMATION
2.1 Definition of a final circuit

A circuit connected directly to current using equipment, or to a socket outlet or socket
outlets or other points for the connection of such equipment (IEE Wiring Regulations
17th Edition, pg 24)
An outlet is defined as the termination of fixed wiring feeding a luminaire, socket, or

any current consuming appliance. From this it will be seen that a final circuit might
consist of a pair of 1.5mm2 cables feeding a few lights or a very 3 core cable feeding a
large motor direct from a circuit breaker or main switchboard.
2.1.1 Socket outlet

Definition: A device, provided with female contacts, which is intended to be installed
with the fixed wiring, and intended to a receive plug. A luminaire track system is not
regarded as a socket outlet system.
Authors: 16
Hasnizam Hanafi & Rafi Azman
Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Figure 1: Schematic diagram for final circuit
Authors: 17
2.1.2 IEE Regulations for Final Circuit

Refer to IEE Wiring Regulations 17th Edition, pg 39:
314-1 Every installation shall be divided into circuits as necessary to:

(i) a void danger and minimize the inconvenience in the event of a fault, and
(ii) facilitate safe operation, inspection, testing and maintenance.
(iii) take account of danger that may arise from the failure of a single circuit
such as a lighting circuit.
(iv) reduce the possibility of unwanted tripping of RCDs due to excessive
protective conductor currents produced by the equipment in normal
operation
(v) mitigate the effects of electromagnetic interference (EMI)
(vi) prevent the indirect energizing of a circuit intended to be isolated.
314-2 A separate circuit shall be provided for each part of the installation which needs
to be separately controlled for compliance with the Regulations or otherwise to
prevent danger, so that such circuits remain energised in the event of failure of any
other circuit of the installation, and due account shall be taken of the consequences of
the operation of any single protective device.
314-3 The number of final circuits required, and the number of points supplied by any
final circuit, shall be such as to facilitate compliance with the requirements of Chapter
43 for overcurrent protection, Section 537 for isolation and switching and Chapter 52
as regards current carrying capacities of conductors.
314-4 Where an installation comprises more than one final circuit, each final circuit
shall be connected to a separate way in a distribution board (DB). The wiring of each
final circuit shall be electrically separate from that of every other final circuit, so as to
prevent the indirect energising of a final circuit intended to be isolated.
For finals circuits the nominal current rating of the fuse or circuit breaker (overcurrent
device) and cable will depend on the types of final circuit.
2.2 Final Circuits Distribution

Final circuits can be divided into the following types, all of which will need different
treatment when planning the size of the conductors and the rating of the overcurrent
devices:
The general of final circuits are:

1. Final circuit feeding 13A sockets to BS 1363
2. Final circuit feeding sockets to BS EN 60309-2 (industrial types 16A, 32A,
63A and 125A)
3. Final circuit feeding fluorescent or types of discharge lighting
4. Final circuit feeding motors
5. Final circuit feeding cookers
Authors: 18
2.2.1 Final circuit feeding 13A sockets to BS 1363
Figure 2: 13A socket outlet
The main advantages of the 13A socket with fused plug are that any appliance with a
loading not exceeding 3.12kW (13A at 240V) may be connected with perfect safety to
any 13A socket, and under certain conditions an unlimited number of socket may be
connected to any one circuit.
One point which must be borne in mind by the designer is the question of the use of
outdoor equipment. IEE Regulation 411.3.3 states that where a socket outlet may be
expected to supply portable equipment for use outdoors, it shall be protected by an
RCD with a rated residual current not exceeding 30mA.
13A socket outlets circuits can be fed by either radial or ring circuits. Figure 3 shows
a radial circuit arrangement and in Figure 4, a ring circuits utilises one additional
conductor to loop back to the sending end. In other words, the socket outlets in the
ring circuit are fed by two parallel conductors. The sharing of the load between the
two parallel conductors will depend on the load distribution within the ring.
Authors: 19
Figure 3: Radial circuit arrangement
Figure 4: Ring circuit arrangement
Circuit arrangements: Recommendations exist in Appendix 15 of IEE Regulations

for standard circuit arrangements with 13A sockets. These permit 13A sockets to be
wired on the final circuits as follows (subject to any derating factors for ambient
temperature, grouping or voltage drop):
a. An unlimited number of socket outlets connected to a final circuit serving a
floor area not exceeding 100m2 wired with 2.5mm2 PVC insulated cables in
the form of a ring and protected by 30A or 32A overcurrent protective device.
Authors: 20
In actual practice, 10 number of socket outlets connected to a final circuit

wired with 2.5mm2 PVC insulated cables in the form of a ring.
b. An unlimited number of socket outlets connected to a final circuit serving in
floor area not exceeding 75m2 with 4mm2 PVC insulated cables on a radial
circuit and protected by an overcurrent device of 30A or 32A rating.
c. An unlimited number of sockets connected to a final circuit serving a floor
area not exceeding 50m2 with 2.5mm2 PVC insulated cables on a radial circuit
and protected by an overcurrent device not exceeding 20A.
Spurs may be connected to these circuits.

Note that if these standard circuits are used the designer is still responsible for
ensuring the circuit is suitable for the expected load. Also the voltage drop, earth fault
loop impedance values are suitable and the breaking capacity of the overload
protection is sufficiently high.
If the estimated load for any given floor area exceeds that of the protective device
given above then the number of circuits feeding this area must be increased
accordingly.
2.2.1.1 Spurs
Non fused spurs: A spur is a branch cable connected to a 13A circuit. The total
number of non fused which may be connected to a 13A circuit must not exceed the
total number of sockets connected direct the circuit. Not more than one single or one
twin socket outlet or one fixed appliance may be connected to any one spur. Non
fused spurs may be looped from the terminals of the nearest sockets, or by means of a
joint box in the circuit. The size of the cable feeding non fused spurs must be the same
size as the circuit cable.
Fused spurs: The cable forming a fused spur must be connected to the ring circuit by
means of fused connection unit or spurbox. The rating of the fuse in this unit shall not
exceed the rating of the cable forming the spur and must not exceed 13A.
There is no limit to the number of fused spurs that may be connected to a ring. The
minimum size of cables forming a fused spur shall be 1.5mm2 PVC with copper
conductor.
Fixed appliances permanently connected to 13A circuits (not connected to a plug and
socket), must be protected by a fuse not exceeding 13A and double pole switch or
fused connection unit which must be separate from the appliance and in an accessible
position.
When planning circuits for 13A sockets it must be always remembered that these are
mainly intended for general purpose use and that comprehensive heating installations,
including floor warming, should be circuited according to the connected load, and
should not use 13A sockets.
Authors: 21
Table 1: Malaysia Practices for 13A Socket Outlet (BS 1363)

Types of 13A Socket Outlets Area Malaysia Practices
Size of wires Fuse/Circuit
Breaker Rating
1. Single socket outlet 20m2 2.5mm2 PVC 16A
cables
2. Double socket outlet 20m2 2.5mm2 PVC 20A
cables
3. Ring (10 Nos 13A socket outlet 100m2 2.5mm2 PVC 32A
provided they are all located within cables
an area of not more than 1000 sq
feet)
4. Radial (Max 6 Socket Outlets) 50m2 4mm2 PVC cables 32A
Authors: 26
2.2.2 Final circuit for socket outlets to BS EN 60309
Figure 5: Industrial plug and socket BS EN 60309-2
These socket outlets are of the heavy industrial type (Figure 5), and are suitable for
single or three phase with a scraping earth. Fuses are not fitted in the sockets or the
plugs. Current ratings range from 16A to 125A.
The 16A sockets whether single or three phase, may be wired only on radial circuits.
The number of sockets connected to a circuit is unlimited, but the protective
overcurrent device must not exceed 20A. It is obvious that if these 16A sockets are
likely to be fully loaded then only one should be connected to any one circuit. The
higher ratings will of course each be wired on a separate circuit.
Due to their robust nature these sockets are often used in industrial installations to
feed small three phase motors, and if the total estimated load of the motors does not
exceed 20A there is no reason why a considerable number should be connected to one
such circuit.
The same rule which applies to all final circuits must be complied with, which is that
the conductors and protective devices must be suitably rated as already explained.
2.2.3 Final circuit for motors

Final circuit for motors need special consideration, although in many respects they are
governed by the regulations which apply to other types of final circuits. The current
rating cables in a circuit feeding a motor must be based upon the full load current of
the motors, although the effect of the starting current will need to be considered if
frequent starting is anticipated (IEE Regulation 552-1-1 pg 141).
IEE Regulation 552-1-1 states all equipment, including cable, of every circuit
carrying the starting, accelerating and load current of a motor shall be suitable for
current at least equal to the full load current of the motor when rated in accordance
with appropriate British Standard. Where the motor is intended for intermittent duty
and for frequent starting and stopping, account shall be taken of any cumulative
effects of the starting or braking current upon the temperature rise of the equipment
of the circuit.
Authors: 27
Every electric motor exceeding 0.37kW shall be provided with control equipment
incorporating protection against overload of the motor. Several motors not exceeding
0.37kW each can be supplied by one circuit, providing protection is provided at each
motor.
2.2.3.1 Motor Isolators
All isolators must be ‘suitably placed’ which means they must be near the starter, but
if the motor is remote and out of sight of the starter then an additional isolator must be
provided near the motor. All isolators, of whatever kind, should be labelled to indicate
which motor they control.
The cutting off of voltage does not include the neutral ins systems where the neutral is
connected to earth. For the purposes of mechanical maintenance, isolators enable the
person carrying out maintenance to ensure that all voltage is cut off from the machine
and the control gear being worked upon, and to be certain that it is not possible for
someone else to switch it on again inadvertently. Where isolators are located remote
from the machine, they should have removable or lockable handles to prevent this
occurrence.
2.2.3.2 Motor starters

It is necessary that each motor be provided with a means of starting and stopping, and
so placed as to be easily worked by the person in charged of the motor. The starter
controlling every motor must incorporate means of ensuring that in the event of a drop
in voltage or failure of supply, the motor does not start automatically on the
restoration of supply, where unexpected re starting could cause danger. Starters should
be fitted with undervoltage trips, which have to be manually reset after having
tripped.
Every motor having a rating exceeding 0.37kW (1/2 hp) must also be controlled by a
starter which incorporates an overcurrent device with a suitable time lag to look after
starting current (IEE Regulation 552-1-2). These starters are generally fitted with
thermal overloads which have an inherent time lag, or with the magnetic type usually
have oil dashpot time lags. These time lags can usually be adjusted, and are normally
set to operate at 10% above full load current. Electronic protective relays are also
available now and these provide a fine degree of protection.
2.2.3.3 Rating of protective device

Rating of protection device IEE Regulation 433-2-2 (pg 74) states that the overcurrent
protective device may be placed along the run of the conductors (providing no branch
circuits are installed), therefore the overcurrent protective device could be the one
incorporated in the starter, and need not be duplicated at the commencement of the
circuit.
Short circuit protection must be provided to protect the circuit, and shall be placed
where a reduction occurs in the value of the current carrying capacity of the
conductors of the installation (i.e such as in a distribution board). The device may,
however, be placed on the load side of a circuit providing the conductors between the
point where the value of current carrying capacity is reduced and the position of the
Authors: 28
protective device do not exceed 3m length and providing the risk of fault current, fire
and danger to persons is reduced to a minimum (IEE Regulation 433-2-2).
When motors take very heavy and prolonged starting currents it may well be that
fuses will not be sufficient to handle the starting current of the motor, and it may be
necessary to install an overcurrent device with the necessary time delay characteristic,
or to install larger cables.
With three phase motors, if fuses protecting the circuit are not large enough to carry
the starting current for a sufficient time, it is possible that one may operate, thus
causing the motor to run on two phases. This could cause serious damage to the
motor, although most motor starters have inherent safeguards against this occurrence.
The ideal arrangement is to back up the overcurrent device in the motor starter with
HBC fuselinks which have discriminating characteristics which will carry heavy
starting currents for longer periods than the overload device. If there is a short circuit
the HBC fuses will operate and clear the short circuit before the short circuit kVA
reaches dangerous proportions.
2.2.4 Final circuit for cooker

A cooker is regarded as a piece of fixed equipment unless it is a small table-mounted
type fed from a plug by a flexible cord. Such equipment must be under the control of
a local switch, usually in the form of a cooker control unit. This switch may control
two cookers, provided both are within 2m of it. In many cases this control unit
incorporates a socket outlet, although often such a socket is not in the safest position
for use to supply portable appliances, whose flexible cords may be burned by the
hotplates. It is often considered safer to control the cooker with a switch and to
provide a separate socket circuit. The protective device is often the most highly rated
in a installation, particularly in a domestic situation, so there is a need to ensure that
diversity has been properly calculated (see Table 2).
The diversity applicable to the current demand for a cooker is shown in Table 3 as
10A plus 30% of the remainder of the total connected load, plus 5A if the control unit
includes a socket outlet. A little thought will show that whilst this calculation will give
satisfactory results under most circumstances, there is a danger of triggering the
protective device under some circumstances. For example, at Christmas it is quite
likely that both ovens, all four hotplates and a 3 kW kettle could he simultaneously
connected. Just imagine the chaos which a blown fuse would cause! This alone is a
very good reason for being generous with cable and protective ratings.
2.2.5 Final circuits feeding fluorescent and other types of discharge lighting
Electric discharge lighting may be divided into two groups: those which operate in the
200V/250V range, and the high voltage type which may use voltage up to 5000V to
earth. The first group includes tubular fluorescent lamps which are available in rating
8W to 125W, sodium lamps which are rated from 35W to 400W, also high pressure
mercury vapour lamps rated from 80W to 1000W, and other forms of discharge
lighting. The second group includes neon signs and similar means of high voltage
lighting.
Authors: 29
2.2.5.1 Low voltage discharge lighting circuits: Regulations governing the design of
final circuits for this group are the same as those which apply to final circuits feeding
tungsten lighting points, but there are additional factors to be taken into account. The
current rating is based upon the ‘total steady current’ which includes the lamp, and
any associated control gear, such as chokes or transformers, and also their harmonic
currents. In absence of manufacturers’ data, this can be arrived at by multiplying the
rated lamp power in watts by 1.8, and is based on the assumption that the power factor
is not less than 0.85 lagging.
For a circuit consisting of twelve 36W fluorescent lamps, the loading will be 12 x
777.6
36W x 1.8 = 777.6W. For a 240V supply the current will be  3.24 A .
240
Some fluorescent lamp circuits (especially the 125W switch start type) have very poor
characteristics, and manufacturers should be consulted as to the line current which
may be expected. In some instances it has been found necessary to multiply the rated
power (Watts) of the lamp by 2. This means that the line current would be
125 x 2
 1.04 A per lamp.
240
The control gear for tubular fluorescent lamps is usually enclosed in the casing of the
luminaire, but for other of discharge lighting, such as h.p mercury and sodium, the
control gear is sometimes mounted remote from the luminaire. Here is necessary to
check the current which will flow between the control gear and the lamp. The remote
control gear must be mounted in a metal box, must be provided with adequate means
for the dissipation of heat, and spaced from any combustible materials.
Another disadvantage of locating control gear remote from discharge lamps is that, if
a fault develops in the wiring between the inductor and the lamp, the presence of the
inductor will limit the fault current so that it may not rise sufficiently to operate fuse.
Such a fault could very remain undetected. If any faults develop in these circuits this
possibility should be investigated.
2.2.5.2 Circuit switches: Circuit switches controlling fluorescent circuits should be

designed for purpose otherwise they should be rated at twice that of the design current
in the circuit; quick-make and slow break switches must be used. Quick break
switches must not be sued as they might break the circuit at the peak of its frequency
wave, and cause a very high induced voltage might flash over to earth.
2.3 Assessment of general characteristic
2.3.1 General
Part 3 of BS 7671 requires the electrical installation designer to make an assessment
of the entire electrical system. An electrical installation forms part of the complete
system, the other constituent parts being the LV supply source and the interlinking LV
distribution lines.
Regulation 301-01 (pg 38) requires this assessment to include the characteristics of
the installation, such as the purpose for which the installation is to be used, its
Authors: 30
structure generally, the nature of the supply to the installation, the external influences
to which equipment will be exposed, the compatibility and maintainability of that
equipment in service, any safety services (such as emergency lighting and fire alarm
systems) and the need for continuity of service. The need for this assessment is
obvious, in that the particular characteristics of the supply and installation will
influence, if not dictate, the methods used to protect against the hazards referred to in
Chapter 13 (electric shock, excessive temperatures, and so on).They will also have a
bearing on the choice of equipment, including wiring systems.
Additionally, before any design of the installation is contemplated, an assessment of

the supply characteristics is required and due account will need to be taken of the
implications of those characteristics on the installation design.
2.4 Loading, maximum demand and diversity
2.4.1 General
Whilst ‘maximum demand’ and ‘diversity’ are not defined in BS 7671, it is necessary
to be clear that such terms are understood by all concerned in the design process. For
example, ‘maximum demand’ may mean different things to the supply engineer and
the installation design engineer. In this text, the following meanings have been
assigned to the terms used.
2.4.2 Diversity Factor

Diversity factor, DF is the ratio of the sum of the maximum power demands of the
subdivisions, parts of a system, to the maximum demand of the whole system or part
of the system under consideration.
Diversity is the engineering principle that in any given installation, some of the
connected loads will not be running at the same time instant as other loads. This
principle can be further broken down into two types of load as follows:
1. Loads that, due to the law of averages, will not be on at the same time.
2. Loads that, due to fact, will not be on at the same time.
Apart from indicating that diversity and maximum demand must be assessed, the
Regulations themselves give little help. Suggestions of values for the allowances for
diversity are given in Table 2.
Authors: 31
Table 2: Allowance for diversity (Table H1 of IEE Guidance Note 1 Selection and
erection)
Purposes of final Type of premises
circuit fed from Individual household Small shops, stores, Small hotels,
conductors or installations, including offices and business boarding houses,
switchgear to which individual dwellings of premises guess houses, etc
diversity applies a block
1. Lighting 66% of total current 90% of total current 75% of total current
demand demand demand
2. Heating and power 100% of total current 100% f.l of largest 100% f.l of largest
(but see 3 and 8 demand up to 10 appliance + 75% f.l of appliance + 80% f.l of
below) amperes + 50% of any remaining appliances second largest
current demand in appliance + 60% f.l of
excess of 10 amperes remaining appliances
3. Cooking appliances 10 amperes + 30% f.l of 100% f.l of largest 100% f.l of largest
connected cooking appliance + 80% f.l of appliance + 80% f.l of
appliances in excess of second largest second largest
10 amperes + 5 amperes appliance + 60% f.l of appliance + 60% f.l of
if socket outlet remaining appliances remaining appliances
incorporated in unit
4. Motors (other than 100% f.l of largest 100% f.l of largest
lift motors which are motor + 80% f.l of motor + 50% f.l of
subject to special second largest motor + remaining motors
consideration) 60% of f.l of remaining
motors
5. Water-heaters 100% f.l of largest 100% f.l of largest 100% f.l of largest
(instantaneous type)* appliance + 100% f.l of appliance + 100% f.l of appliance + 100% f.l
second largest appliance second largest of second largest
+ 25% f.l of remaining appliance + 25% f.l of appliance + 25% f.l of
appliances remaining appliances remaining appliances
6. Water-heaters No diversity allowable**
(thermostatically
controlled)
7. Floor warming No diversity allowable**
installations
8. Thermal storage No diversity allowable**
space heating
installations
Type of premises
Authors: 32
Purposes of final Individual household Small shops, stores, Small hotels,

circuit fed from installations, including offices and business boarding houses,
conductors or individual dwellings of premises guess houses, etc
switchgear to which a block
diversity applies
9. Standard 100% of current demand 100% of current demand of largest circuit + 50%
arrangements of final of largest circuit + 40% of current demand of every other circuits
circuits in accordance of current demand of
with Appendix 8 every other circuit
10. Socket-outlets 100% of current demand 100% of current 100% of current
other than those in of largest point of demand of largest point demand of largest
included in 9 above utilisation + 40% of of utilisation + 70% of point of utilisation +
and stationary current demand of every current demand of 75% of current
equipment other than other point of utilisation every other point of demand of every
those listed above utilisation point in main rooms
(dining rooms, etc) +
40% of current
demand of every
other point of
utilisation
* For the purpose of this Table an instantaneous water-heater is deemed to be a water
heater of any loading which heats water only while the tap is turned on and therefore
uses electricity intermittently.
** It is important to ensure that the distribution boards are sufficient rating to take the
total load connected to them without the application of any diversity.
In load assessments, certain assumptions have to be made with regard to actual

current drawn by equipment. Fixed loads are easy, but this is not so for socket-outlet
circuits, which may have a theoretical load many times that which is likely to be
drawn in service. For example, a final ring circuit may have twelve 13A socket-outlets
protected by a 32 A fuse or circuit-breaker, each socket-outlet capable of supplying, at
least for short periods, a load of 3.12kW at 240V (13A × 240V), giving a total circuit
current of 156A (12 x 13A). Clearly, such a scenario is not likely to occur in the real
world, and the current likely to be drawn in this case must be based on all the known
information related to usage of the circuit and the loads of portable and fixed
equipment connected to it (the maximum permitted sustained load to be drawn by this
circuit would, of course, be 32 A).
As mentioned earlier, assumptions have to be made in the assessment of maximum

demands and those regarding the load current of current-using equipment and at
points of utilization (e.g. socket-outlets) are given in Table 4.1, which is based on
Table H1 of IEE Guidance Note 1 Selection and erection.
When selecting a distribution board or consumer unit, it is important to do so taking

into account its rated current and rated diversity factor. It should also not be forgotten
that the rated currents of the outgoing ways do not imply that the ways can take these
currents continuously or for substantially long periods. Where continuous or long
duration loadings exceed the ‘long term’ ratings of the outgoing ways, an excessive
temperature rise is attained within the equipment, which may cause premature
operation of overload devices. In all cases the equipment manufacturer’s instructions
with regard to loading should be complied with.
Authors: 33
2.4.3 Lighting: loading and diversity

To assess the maximum demand for loading of lighting circuits, it is simply necessary
to add the sum of all the lamp wattages of luminaires connected to it. The current is
obtained by dividing the rated wattage of the lamp(s) by the nominal voltage (i.e.
P/V).
Where luminaires operate at a power factor less than unity (e.g. power-factor-
uncorrected fluorescent luminaires), and in the absence of more precise information, a
multiplying factor of 1.8 (see Section 10.4.2 of this Guide) must be applied to the
calculated current derived from the wattage rating. Where the actual wattage of a
luminaire is not known, a minimum of 100W per lamp must be allowed (see item H
of Table 4.1 of this Guide).
Diversity for lighting circuits will depend on the type of premises, and in Table H2 of
IEE Guidance Note 1 Selection and erection these are given as
 domestic premises – households, including flats 66%;
 commercial premises – shops, offices, stores and other business premises
90%;
 commercial premises – guest houses, small hotels, boarding houses 75%.
By way of example, three shop lighting circuits with connected load (and maximum
demand) of 15A, 7A and 12A would represent (after applying an allowance for
diversity of 0.9) a load of 30.6A – i.e. 0.9(15 + 7 + 12) – on the supplying distribution
board.
2.4.4 Heating: loading and diversity

Assessment of heating loads is straightforward and the current is obtained by dividing
the rated wattage, P of the loads by the nominal voltage of the circuit (i.e. P/V). The
power factor for such load is normally at unity unless the heater convection is fan
assisted, in which case account should be taken of the motor power factor. This is
generally likely to be approaching unity for the whole appliance. For thermal storage
heating circuits (e.g. off-peak heaters) and for floor-warming installations, no
allowance for diversity is permitted.
Diversity for heating circuits will depend on the type of premises, and in Table H2 of
 domestic premises – households, including flats: 100% of first 10 A plus 50%
of remainder;
 commercial premises – shops, offices, stores and other business premises:
100% of largest heater plus 75% of remaining heaters;
 commercial premises – guest houses, small hotels, boarding houses: 100% of
largest heater plus 80% of next largest heater plus 60% of remaining heaters.
By way of example, five boarding house heaters, three rated at 3kW and two rated at
2kW, are fed from a common distribution board. With allowance for diversity, these
heaters would represent a load of 9.6kW, i.e. (1 x 3) + (0.8 x 3) + (0.6 x 3) + (0.6 x 2)
+ (0.6 x 2).
Authors: 34
2.4.5 Cookers: loading and diversity

Diversity for cooker circuits will again depend on the type of premises, and in Table
H2 of IEE Guidance Note 1 Selection and erection these are given as
 domestic premises – households, including flats: 100% of first 10A plus 30%
of remainder plus 5A if socket-outlet is integral to the cooker control unit;
100% of largest cooker plus 80% of second largest cooker plus 60% of
remaining cookers;
 commercial premises – guest houses, small hotels, boarding houses; 100% of
largest cooker plus 80% of second largest cooker plus 60% of remaining
cookers.
By way of example, three small hotel cookers, two rated at 12kW and one rated at
10kW, are fed from a common distribution board. With allowance for diversity, these
cookers would represent a load of 27.6kW, i.e. 12 + (0.8 x 12) + (0.6 x 10).
2.4.6 Water heaters: loading and diversity

Diversity for instantaneous water heater circuits will depend on the type of premises,
and in Table H2 of IEE Guidance Note 1 Selection and erection these are given as
 domestic premises – households including flats: 100% of first and second
largest water heater plus 25% of remainder;
 commercial premises – shops, offices, stores and other business premises;
100% of first and second largest water heater plus 25% of remainder;
first and second largest water heater plus 25% of remainder.
There is no allowable diversity for water heaters which are thermostatically controlled
(e.g. immersion heaters and storage water heaters).
By way of example, three office instantaneous water heaters, two rated at 7kW and
one rated at 3kW, are fed from a common distribution board. With allowance for
diversity, these water heaters would represent a load of 14.75kW, i.e. 7 + 7 + (0.25 x
3).
2.4.7 Motors: loading and diversity

Diversity for motor circuits will depend on the type of premises, and in Table H2 of
100% of first and second largest motor plus 80% of second largest motor plus
60% of remainder;
first and second largest motor plus 50% of remainder.
By way of example, three motors in an office boiler house, two rated at 11A and one
rated at 5A, (and all operating at 0.8 power factor), are fed from a common
distribution board. With allowance for diversity, these motors would represent a load
of 32.5A, i.e. [11 + 11 + (0.8 × 5)]/0.8. This value represents the steady-state loading,
and allowance should also be made for the high starting currents associated with the
particular motors. The motor manufacturer must be consulted where there is doubt
Authors: 35
about the starting currents (typically six times the steady-state current). Consideration
should also be given to simultaneous starting of motors and the effects on distribution
circuits. Sequential starting may need to be adopted to prevent unacceptable
cumulative starting currents. Lift motors are the subject of special consideration, and
reference should be made to the requirements of BS 5655 or BS EN 81-1, as
applicable.
2.4.8 Stationary equipment: loading and diversity

The loading of stationary equipment will be that given by the manufacturers, and any
diversity allowance which may apply will depend on the operational requirements. In
the absence of precise information, the allowance given for heating may be used with
caution, if appropriate.
2.4.9 Conventional circuits: loading and diversity

Conventional circuit arrangements are detailed in Appendix E of the IEE Guidance
Note Selection and erection. Diversity for conventional circuits will depend on the
type of premises, and in Table H2 of IEE Guidance Note 1 Selection and erection
these are given as
 domestic premises – households, including flats: 100% of largest circuit plus
40% of remainder;
100% of largest circuit plus 50% of remainder;
largest circuit plus 50% of remainder.
By way of example, three conventional circuits in a shop, two rated at 32A (ring final
circuits) and two rated at 20A (radial circuits), are fed from a common distribution
board. With allowance for diversity, these circuits would represent a load of 68A, i.e.
32 + 0.5(32 + 20 + 20).
2.4.10 Socket-outlet circuits other than conventional circuits: loading and

diversity
Diversity for socket-outlet circuits other than conventional circuits will depend on the
type of premises, and in Table H2 of IEE Guidance Note 1 Selection and erection
these are given as
 domestic premises – households, including flats: 100% of largest point plus
40% of remainder;
100% of largest point plus 70% of remainder;
largest point plus 75% of all other points in main rooms plus 40% of
remainder.
There will be many occasions where the designer will find the installation will not fall
neatly into any one of the above three categories and will need to use professional
judgement and experience to assess diversity.
Authors: 36
2.4.11 Maximum Demand

Maximum demand (often referred to as MD) is the largest current normally carried by
circuits, switches and protective devices; it does not include the levels of current
flowing under overload or short circuit conditions
Maximum Demand, MD  Connected Load  CL  x Diversity Factor (DF)
Example 1:
A shop has the following single-phase loads, which are balanced as evenly as possible
across the 415 V three-phase supply.
2 x 6 kW and 7 x 3kW thermostatically controlled water heaters
2 x 3 kW instantaneous water heaters
2 x 6 kW and 1 x 4 kW cookers
12 kW of discharge lighting (Sum of tube ratings)
8 x 30A ring circuits feeding 13A sockets.
Calculate the total demand of the system, assuming that diversity can be applied.
Calculations will be based on Table 3.
Solution:
415
The single-phase voltage for a 415V three-phase system is  240V .
3
All loads with the exception of the discharge lighting can be assumed to be at unity
power factor, so current may be calculated from
P
I 
V
Water heaters (thermostatic)

No diversity is allowable, so the total load will be:
(2 x 6) + (7 x 3) kW = 12 + 21kW = 33kW
33 x10 3
This gives a total single-phase current of I   137.6 A
240
Water heaters (instantaneous)

100% of largest plus 100% of next means that in effect there is no allowable diversity.
Single-phase current
100 3000 100 3000 3000
 x  x  2x  25.0 A
100 240 100 240 240
Authors: 37
Cookers
100% of largest 6000 25.0A

I   25.0 A
240
80% of second 80  6000  20.0A
I  x   20.0 A
100  240 
60% of remainder 60  4000  10.0A
I  x   10 A
100  240 
Total for cookers 55.0A
Discharge lighting
90% of total which must be increased to allow for power factor and control gear
losses.
90 12000
Lighting current  x x1.8  81.1 A
100 240
Ring circuits
First circuit 100%, so current is 30 A
50
75% of remainder  x30Ax 7  105A
100
Total current demand for ring circuits = 135A
Total single phase current demand = 433.7A

433.7
Since a perfect balance is assumed, three phase line current   144.57 A
3
Example 2
A 240 V domestic cooker has the following connected loads:
top oven 1.5kW
main oven 2.5kW
grill 2.0kW
four hotplates 2.0kW each
The cooker control unit includes a 13 A socket outlet. Calculate a suitable rating for
the protective device. Calculate the total demand of the system, assuming that
diversity can be applied.
Solution:
Assume the power factor, cos θ is 1.
The total cooker load is 1.5 + 2.5 + 2.0 + (4 x 2.0) kW = 14 kW
3
P 14 x10
Total current    58.3 A
V 240
Authors: 38
The demand is made up of:
the first 10 A 10A

+ 30% of remainder 30 14.5A
 x 58.3  10   14.5 A
100
+ allowance for socket 5A
outlet
Total 29.5A
Example 3
A domestic premise with a 240V 50 Hz supply protected by a 100A BS 1361 supply
fuse has the following loads:
a) Shower 10kW protected by 45A device

b) Cooker 12kW (13A socket outlet in control unit) 45A device
c) 2×32A ring final circuits
d) 1×20A radial circuit serving socket outlets
e) 1×16A immersion heater circuit
f) 2 lighting circuits, each with 10 outlets (min 100W per lamp Table 1A On-Site
Guide)
g) 2kW protected by 2 No. 6A devices.
Calculate the total demand of the system, assuming that diversity can be applied.
Example 4
A retail jeweler has the following connected load supplied at 240V 50 Hz:
a) Direct heaters 2×2kW, 3×1.5kW, 1×1.0kW
b) Cooker 5kW (cooker unit has socket outlet)
c) Water heating (thermostatic) 3kW
d) Socket outlets 30A ring circuit
e) Shop and window lighting 2.5kW total.
Determine the assumed maximum demand. Assumed maximum demand using IEE
On-Site Guide Table 1B (small shop premises).
Example 5
A small hotel supplied at 400/230 V 50 Hz has the following connected load:
a) 100 lighting outlets
b) 50×13 A socket outlets on 6×30 A ring circuits
c) 30×1 kW convection heaters on coin-operated meters
d) 16 kW thermal storage central heating boiler
e) Cooking equipment – 2×14 kW cookers, 1×4 kW hot cupboard, 3×2 kW
fryers,
f) 4×600W microwave ovens plus 5kW machines.
Determine the assumed maximum demand.
2.5 Load Estimation
Authors: 39
The examination of actual values of apparent power required by each load enables the
establishment of:
 A declared power demand which determines the contract for the supply of
energy. Need to deal with TNB.
 The rating of the MV/LV transformer, where applicable (allowing for expected
increased load).
 Level of load current at each distribution board.
In normal practice, the loads estimation as follow as:
No Types of Load JKR

1. 13A Switch Socket Outlet 250W (Domestic)
300W (Industry)
2. Lighting:
a) Fluorescent Fittings
i) 1 x 18W 24W
ii) 2 x18W 48W
iii) 3 x 18W 72W
iv) 4 x 18W 96W
v) 1 x 36W 42W
vi) 2 x 36W 84W
vii) 3 x 36W 126W
viii) 4 x 36W 168W
b) 100W down light 100W
c) Emergency light Table Appendix 2.1
d) Exit light 20W
3. Ceiling fan c/w regulator 80W
4. Exhaust fan 70W
5. Wall fan 70W
6. 15A Switch Socket Outlet 500W
7. Isolator 20A TPN Table Appendix 2.1
10. Fire Alarm System 250W
11. Water Heater 3kW
Cooking Unit 7.5kW
Induction Motor
Current demand
The full load current, Im,fl supplied to the motor is given by the following formulae:
Authors: 40
Prated
I m , fl 
3 xVxx cos 
Where:
I m , fl = nominal full load current of the motor
Prated = Rated power
V = voltage between phases for three phase motor and voltage between
the
terminals voltage for single phase motors (in volts)
η = efficiency of the motor
cos θ = power factor
Notes: 1hp = 746kW
Motor-starting current
Starting current (Istart) for 3-phase induction motors, according to motor type, will be:
 for direct-on-line starting of squirrel-cage motors:
Istart = 4.2 to 9 Im,fl for 2-pole motors
Istart = 4.2 to 7 Im,fl for motors with more than 2 poles (mean value = 6 Im,fl),
where
Im,fl = nominal full-load current of the motor
 for wound-rotor motors (with slip-rings), and for D.C. motors:
Istart depends on the value of starting resistances in the rotor circuits:
Istart = 1.5 to 3 Im,fl (mean value = 2.5 Im,fl ).
 for induction motors controlled by speed changing variable-frequency devices,

assume that the control device has the effect of increasing the power (kW)
supplied to the circuit motor (i.e. device plus) by 10%.
Appendix 2.1 shows, as a function of the rated nominal power of motors, the current
supplied to them at different voltage levels under normal uncompensated conditions,
and the same motors under the same conditions, but compensated to operate at a
power factor of 0.93 (tan θ = 0.4). These values are averages and will differ to some
extent according to the type of motor and the manufacturer concerned.
Note: the rated voltages of certain loads listed in table B4 are still based on 220/380V.
The international standard is now (since 1983) 230/400V.
To convert the current values indicated for a given motor rating in the 220V and 380V
columns to the currents taken by 230V and 400V motors of the same rating, multiply
by a factor of 0.95.
Resistive type heating appliances and incandescent lamps (Conventional or

halogen)
The current demand of a heating appliance or an incandescent lamp is easily obtained
from the nominal power, Pn quoted by the manufacturer (i.e. cos θ = 1)
Authors: 41
The currents are given by:

Pn
 Three phase case: I 
3V
Pn
 Single phase case: I 
3V
where V is the voltage between the terminals of the equipment.
For an incandescent lamp, the use of halogen gas allows a more concentrated light
source. The light output is superior and the life of the lamp is doubled.
Note: at the instant of switching on, the cold filament gives rise to a very brief but
intense peak of current.
Fluorescent lamps and related equipment

The power Pn (watts) indicated on the tube of a fluorescent lamp does not include the
power dissipated in the ballast.
The current taken by the complete circuit is given by:
P  Pn
I  ballast (1)
V cos 
where V = the voltage applied to the lamp, complete with its related equipment.
If no power-loss value is indicated for the ballast, a figure of 25% of Pn may be used.
Equation (1) can be rewritten as

1.25xPn
I (2)
V cos 
Standard tubular fluorescent lamps

With (unless other wise indicated):
 cos θ = 0.6 with no power factor (PF) correction* capacitor,
 cos θ = 0.86 with PF correction* (single or twin tubes),
 cos θ = 0.96 for electronic ballast.
Table 4 gives these values for different arrangements of ballast.

Arrangement Current (A) at 230V
of lamps, Magnetic ballast
Authors: 42
starter and Tube Without Without Electronic Tube

ballasts power PF PF ballast length
(W) correction correction (cm)
capacitor capacitor
Single tube 18 0.20 0.14 0.10 60
36 0.33 0.23 0.18 120
Double 2 x 18 - 0.28 0.18 60
tubes 2 x 36 - 0.46 0.35 120
Table 4 gives the current taken by a complete unit, including all associated ancillary
equipment. These lamps depend on the luminous electrical discharge through a gas or
vapour of a metallic compound, which is contained in a hermetically sealed
transparent envelope at a predetermined pressure. These lamps have a long start up
time, during which the current, I is greater than the nominal current, I n. Power and
current demands are given for different types of lamp (typical average values which
may differ slightly from one manufacturer to another.
The power in watts indicated on the tube of a discharge lamp does not include the
power dissipated in the ballast.
Circuit supplying discharge lighting must be capable of carrying the total steady
current of the lamp and associated control gear, including their harmonic currents.
Where more exact information is not available and the resulting power factor of the
circuit is not less that 0.85 lagging, the current demand can be determined from the
following formula:
Lamp power (Watts) x 1.8

Current, I  sup ply voltage
The multiplier of 1.8 is based on the assumption that the circuit is corrected to the
power factor of not less than 0.85 lagging, and it takes into account control gear losses
and harmonic currents. The 1.8 multiplier applied to the lamp watts is projected
demand in volt amperes.
For example:
A circuit supplying 8 x 36W fluorescent luminaries connected to a 240V supply
would take a current of:
8x36Wx1.8
I  2.16A
240
Authors: 43
Authors: 44
APPENDIX 2.1: CONNECTED LOAD (TCL) UPDATE 2009
NO ITEMS LOAD ESTIMATED NO ITEMS LOAD ESTIMATED

1 18W Fluorescent 24W 27 400mm Automatic Fan 80W
2 36W Fluorescent 42W
28 200mm Exhaust Fan 15W
3 60W Tungsten 60W 29 250mm Exhaust Fan 25W
4 100W Tungsten 100W 30 300mm Exhaust Fan 40W
5 1 x 8W(F) EL 10W 31 13A Switch Socket Outlet 250W

6 2 x 8W (F) "K" Sign 20W 32 15A Switch Socket Outlet 500W
7 9W PLC 15W 33 15A SPN Isolator Depend on motor hp

10 18W PLC 24W 36 15A TPN Isolator Depend on motor hp
37 20A TPN Isolator Depend on motor hp
11 9W PLCE 10W 38 30A TPN Isolator Depend on motor hp
14 18W PLCE 20W
41 1HP Aircond 746W
15 50W Halogen Bulb 50W 42 1.5HP Aircond 1119W
16 70W Metal Halide/SON 80W 43 2HP Aircond 1492W
17 150W Metal Halide/SON 170W 44 2.5HP Aircond 1865W
18 250W Metal Halide/SON 280W 45 3HP Aircond 2238W
19 400W Metal Halide/SON 440W
Authors: 52
NO ITEMS LOAD ESTIMATED NO ITEMS LOAD ESTIMATED

46 Water Heater 3000W
20 Obstruction Light 100W 47 Cooker 7.5kW
21 Electric Bell Neglected 48 Booster Pump Depend on motor hp
22 2 x 8W(F) Insect Killer 20W 49 Fire Fighting Pump Depend on motor hp
23 1500mm Ceiling Fan 80W 50 Fire Alarm Panel 250W

24 1200mm Ceiling Fan 60W 51 CO2 Point 500W
52 SATS System 500W
25 400mm Wall Fan 60W 53 HI Kleen System Depend on motor hp
26 500mm Wall Fan 80W
Authors: 53
APPENDIX 2.2: DIVERSITY FACTOR UPDATE 2009
Building Health Hostel Laboratory

Non Dining Hall/
Load School Essential Essential Mosque Hall School Executive Canteen Office Computer Science Quarters
Lamp / Fan 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.9 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8
13A S/S/O 0.1 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.6 0.6 0.5
AC Motor/
Pump 1 1 1 1 1 - 1 1 1 1 1 1
Outdoor
Lighting 1 1 1 1 - - - - 1 1 1 -
Water Heater - - - - - - 1 1 - - - 1
Cooker Unit 1 1 1 - - - - - - - - -
Isolator 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 - - 1
Note: If S/S/O are to much, the diversity factor need to decrease to 0.2
Authors: 54

Final Circuit and Load Estimation British Standard

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Final Circuit and Load Estimation British Standard

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Final Circuit and Load Estimation British Standard

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Electrical Installation Design

2.1 Definition of a final circuit

An outlet is defined as the termination of fixed wiring feeding a luminaire, socket, or

2.1.1 Socket outlet

Figure 1: Schematic diagram for final circuit

2.1.2 IEE Regulations for Final Circuit

314-1 Every installation shall be divided into circuits as necessary to:

2.2 Final Circuits Distribution

The general of final circuits are:

2.2.1 Final circuit feeding 13A sockets to BS 1363

Figure 2: 13A socket outlet

Figure 3: Radial circuit arrangement

Figure 4: Ring circuit arrangement

Circuit arrangements: Recommendations exist in Appendix 15 of IEE Regulations

In actual practice, 10 number of socket outlets connected to a final circuit

Spurs may be connected to these circuits.

Table 1: Malaysia Practices for 13A Socket Outlet (BS 1363)

2.2.2 Final circuit for socket outlets to BS EN 60309

Figure 5: Industrial plug and socket BS EN 60309-2

2.2.3 Final circuit for motors

2.2.3.1 Motor Isolators

2.2.3.2 Motor starters

2.2.3.3 Rating of protective device

2.2.4 Final circuit for cooker

2.2.5.2 Circuit switches: Circuit switches controlling fluorescent circuits should be

2.3 Assessment of general characteristic

Additionally, before any design of the installation is contemplated, an assessment of

2.4 Loading, maximum demand and diversity

2.4.2 Diversity Factor

Purposes of final Individual household Small shops, stores, Small hotels,

In load assessments, certain assumptions have to be made with regard to actual

As mentioned earlier, assumptions have to be made in the assessment of maximum

When selecting a distribution board or consumer unit, it is important to do so taking

2.4.3 Lighting: loading and diversity

2.4.4 Heating: loading and diversity

2.4.5 Cookers: loading and diversity

2.4.6 Water heaters: loading and diversity

2.4.7 Motors: loading and diversity

2.4.8 Stationary equipment: loading and diversity

2.4.9 Conventional circuits: loading and diversity

2.4.10 Socket-outlet circuits other than conventional circuits: loading and

2.4.11 Maximum Demand

Maximum Demand, MD  Connected Load  CL  x Diversity Factor (DF)

Water heaters (thermostatic)

Water heaters (instantaneous)

100% of largest 6000 25.0A

Total single phase current demand = 433.7A

The demand is made up of:

the first 10 A 10A

a) Shower 10kW protected by 45A device

Determine the assumed maximum demand.

2.5 Load Estimation

In normal practice, the loads estimation as follow as:

No Types of Load JKR

Notes: 1hp = 746kW

 for induction motors controlled by speed changing variable-frequency devices,

Resistive type heating appliances and incandescent lamps (Conventional or

The currents are given by:

where V is the voltage between the terminals of the equipment.