Part 1

1. Component Functions in the Two Lighting Circuits

Figure (A):
Consumer Unit / Fuse Box: Central distribution point where electricity is divided into individual
circuits. It includes circuit breakers or fuses to protect circuits from overload and short circuits.
32A Ring Circuit: Supplies power to sockets in a loop configuration, allowing higher load
distribution and ensuring redundancy.
5A Lighting Circuit: A dedicated circuit for lighting, typically designed for lower current loads.
Spur: A single outlet or branch that comes off the main circuit.
20A Radial: Supplies power to sockets in a radial configuration (single line), typically for small
loads.
32A Cooker Circuit: Dedicated high-current circuit for an electric cooker.
Main Earth: Provides a safety path for fault currents to prevent electric shock.
Bond to Gas and Water Supply: Ensures that metal pipes are earthed to prevent electric shock.
Figure (B):
10A MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker): Protects the lighting circuit from overcurrent and short
circuits. It automatically trips when the current exceeds 10A.
Switches: Two-way switches allow control of the lamp from two different locations, common in
staircases or hallways.
Lamp (200W, 220V, Cos φ = 1): Incandescent lamp converts electrical energy into light and heat.
It operates at unity power factor (cos φ = 1).
Wiring:
Live (Red/Phase): Supplies power to the switches and lamp.
Neutral (Blue): Returns current from the lamp to the source.
Earth (Green/Yellow): Provides a safety path for fault current to ground.

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2. Analysis of Component Selection Based on Safety Regulations
Figure (A):
Switches and MCB:
MCB Ratings:

-6A MCB for lighting circuits adheres to BS 7671 standards, ensuring protection for low current
circuits.
-32A MCB for the cooker and ring circuits allows higher current draw for high-power appliances.
-Switches: Standard switches are used for lighting and sockets, meeting statutory safety
requirements under BS 7671.
Regulation 533.2.1: MCBs must be selected based on the rated current of the circuit and fault
protection.
Regulation 411.3.2: MCBs must provide automatic disconnection of supply (ADS) in case of fault
currents.

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Cable Size:
-Lighting Circuit: Typically uses 1.5 mm² cables for lighting circuits, which are sufficient for 6A
current.
-Cooker and Ring Circuits: 4 mm² or 2.5 mm² cables are used, depending on the circuit design, to
handle higher loads.
-Earth Bonding: Earth cables are sized appropriately to meet safety requirements for fault
protection.
Regulation 544.1.1: Specifies the minimum cross-sectional area of bonding conductors (e.g., 10
mm² for PME systems).

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Lighting Circuit (6A):
Regulation 433.1.1: The cable size must be chosen to prevent overload under normal operating
conditions.
Regulation 525.1: Voltage drop must not exceed 3% for lighting circuits.
Regulation 411.4.1: Ensures earthing for fault protection in TN systems.

1. Calculate the Current (I) of the Lamp

The current can be determined using Ohm's Law:
p
I=
v
Where:
P=200WP (power of the lamp)
V=220V (voltage supply) - Cos φ = 1 (unity power factor for incandescent lamps).
I=200/220=0.91 A

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2. Select the Appropriate Cable Size
From Table 4D4A in the provided image, for a 1.5 mm² cable:
Current-carrying capacity under Reference Method D (column 2) = 18A.
Since the lamp only draws 0.91 A, a 1.5 mm² cable is sufficient as it can handle much more
current.
3. Calculate Voltage Drop
Voltage drop (Vd) can be calculated using the formula:
Vd=mxixL
Where:
m = voltage drop per ampere per meter (from BS 7671 tables). For 1.5 mm² cable, the voltage
drop is 29 mV/A/m (millivolts per ampere per meter).
I=0.91A (current)
L = length of the cable (assume 10 meters for this example).
Substitute into the formula:
Vd=0.029×0.91×10
Vd=0.264V
4. Percentage Voltage Drop
To check if the voltage drop is within the allowable limit (3% for lighting circuits under BS 7671):
Percentage Voltage Drop=Vd/Vx100
Percentage Voltage Drop=0.264/220*100=0.12%
This is well below the 3% limit, so the design is compliant.

Ib≤In≤Iz
Ib=0.91A (Design Current)

In=6A (MCB Rating)

Iz =18A (Cable Current-Carrying Capacity)
0.91A≤6A≤18A

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Cables and Cable Sizing:
Regulation 524.1: Cables must be correctly sized based on current-carrying capacity, voltage
drop, and installation method.
Regulation 526.1: All connections must be made securely to ensure safety and reliability.

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Figure (B):
MCB Selection:
10A MCB protects the circuit against overcurrent, meeting BS 7671 requirements for lighting
circuits.
Switch Types:
Two-way switches are selected for controlling the lamp from multiple locations. These are
compliant with BS 7671 for staircases and similar installations.
Cable Size:
Typically, 1.5 mm² cables are used for lighting circuits. This size meets both statutory
requirements and the load capacity for a 200W incandescent lamp.

Safety Compliance:
Earthing: Ensures the lamp and switches are protected against fault currents.
Color Coding: Complies with BS 7671 wiring color codes (Red for Live, Blue for Neutral,
Green/Yellow for Earth).

10A MCB:
Regulation 433.1.1: Protective devices (like MCBs) must be rated to interrupt fault currents
without damage.

Two-Way Switches:
Regulation 537.5.1: Switches must be capable of isolating circuits for maintenance and control.
Regulation 537.5.3: Switches must ensure proper earthing for safety.

Cables:
Regulation 524.1: The minimum cable size for lighting circuits is typically 1.5 mm², ensuring it can
handle the current without overheating.
Table 4D5:Provides current-carrying capacities for PVC-insulated cables based on installation
methods.

Earthing:
Regulation 411.3.1.1: Earthing must be provided for all exposed conductive parts to prevent
electric shock.
Regulation 543.1.3: Earthing conductors must be sized appropriately to carry fault currents.

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8
3. Justification of Designs, Manufacturing, and Testing Based on British Standards (BS 7671)
Figure (A):
1-Design:
-The design follows BS 7671 requirements for domestic wiring systems, including ring and radial
circuits, proper earthing, and MCB selection.
-The inclusion of bonding to gas and water supplies ensures compliance with statutory safety
regulations.
2-Manufacturing:
-Components like MCBs, consumer units, and switches are manufactured according to BS EN
60898 and BS 7671 standards, ensuring reliability and safety.
3-Testing:
-The installation must undergo Initial Verification and Periodic Inspection and Testing under BS
7671.
Tests include:
Continuity of Protective Conductors
Insulation Resistance
Earth Fault Loop Impedance
Polarity Testing
Regulation:
1-Design
-Ring and Radial Circuits:
Regulation 314.1: Circuits must be properly divided to minimize inconvenience during faults.
Regulation 433.1.1: Protective devices must disconnect circuits before cables exceed their
current-carrying capacity.
Regulation 525.1: Voltage drop must not exceed 3% for lighting circuits and 5% for power circuits.
-Earthing and Bonding:
Regulation 411.3.1.1: Exposed-conductive parts must be earthed to prevent electric shock.
Regulation 411.3.1.2: Bonding of metallic gas and water pipes ensures safety.

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-MCB Selection:
Regulation 536.5.1: MCBs must be correctly rated for the load and fault protection.
2-MCBs and Consumer Units:
BS EN 60898: Specifies standards for MCBs to ensure safety, reliability, and proper operation.
Switches:
BS EN 60669: Ensures switches are manufactured to meet performance and safety standards.
3-Testing
1-Initial Verification:
Regulation 611.1: Verification must confirm compliance with BS 7671.
2-Tests Conducted:
Continuity of Protective Conductors: Regulation 612.2
Insulation Resistance: Regulation 612.3
Earth Fault Loop Impedance: Regulation 612.5
Polarity Testing: Regulation 612.6
3-Periodic Inspection:
Regulation 621.1: Requires periodic testing to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.

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Figure (B):
1-Design:
-The two-way switching design adheres to BS 7671 for lighting circuits, ensuring safe and
convenient control of the lamp.
-The 10A MCB protects the circuit against overloads and short circuits.
2-Manufacturing:
-Switches and MCBs are manufactured to meet BS EN 60669 (switches) and BS EN 60898 (MCBs),
ensuring compliance with British safety standards.
3-Testing:
-The lighting circuit must pass testing procedures under BS 7671, including:
Circuit Continuity
Insulation Resistance
Functional Testing of Two-Way Switches
Earth Fault Protection

Regulation:
Figure (B):

Design
Two-Way Switching:
Regulation 537.5.1: Switchgear must be suitable for operating conditions.
Regulation 537.5.3: Specifies correct use of two-way switches for lighting control.
MCB Protection:
Regulation 433.1.1: The 10A MCB ensures protection against overloads and short circuits.
Regulation 536.4.202: MCBs must be appropriately rated for the circuit load.
Lighting Circuit Design:
Regulation 525.1: Voltage drop must be limited to 3% for lighting circuits.

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Manufacturing
MCBs:
BS EN 60898: Ensures MCBs meet safety and performance requirements.
Switches:
BS EN 60669: Specifies the manufacturing standards for switches.
Testing
Verification and Testing:
Regulation 611.1: Requires initial verification of the installation.
Tests Conducted:
Circuit Continuity: Regulation 612.2
Insulation Resistance: Regulation 612.3
Functional Testing of Switches: Regulation 612.13
Earth Fault Protection: Regulation 612.5

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 Part 2
1-Name the method of in installation of electrical circuits in figure (a).
"Surface Wiring Installation"
This method involves mounting cables, conduits, and electrical accessories (e.g.,
sockets, switches) on the surface of walls, floors, or ceilings rather than embedding
them within the structure.
It is typically used in:
-Domestic installations for ring circuits, radial circuits, and lighting circuits.
-Applications where easy access for maintenance or modifications is required.

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2-Explain the function of the two different power circuits in figure (a).
1. 32A Ring Circuit
Function:
-The ring circuit is designed to supply power to multiple socket outlets in a domestic installation.
-It allows current to flow through two paths (in a loop), which helps share the electrical load.
-This circuit is typically used for general-purpose outlets in living rooms, bedrooms, and other
areas where portable appliances (e.g., TVs, computers, and chargers) are used.
Advantages:
Reduces the load on individual cables, as current is shared between two paths.
Supports higher power demand over longer distances without excessive voltage drop.
Protection:
The circuit is protected by a 32A MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) to prevent overloads and short
circuits.
Complies with BS 7671:2008 Regulation 433.1.1 for overload protection.

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2. 20A Radial Circuit
Function:
The radial circuit supplies power to a specific group of sockets or appliances.
Unlike the ring circuit, current flows in a single direction from the consumer unit to the outlets.
It is typically used for smaller areas or specific loads like kitchen sockets, heaters, or dedicated
appliances.
Advantages:
Simple design with easier fault identification.
Suitable for areas where fewer sockets or appliances are needed.
Protection:
The circuit is protected by a 20A MCB to ensure it does not exceed the safe current-carrying
capacity of the cables.
Complies with BS 7671:2008 Regulation 433.1.1 for overload protection.

Circuit Function Protection

32A Ring Circuit Provides power to multiple sockets in a loop. 32A MCB (BS EN 60898)

20A Radial Supplies power to specific sockets or appliances. 20A MCB (BS EN 60898)
Circuit

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3- Compare the differences of the power circuits in the commercial from the domestic in terms
of the method of connection and the types of sockets used in the power circuits
1. Method of Connection
Aspect Domestic Power Circuits Commercial Power Circuits
- Ring Circuit (32A) and Radial Circuit
Circuit Type (20A). - Radial Circuits are predominantly used.
Connection - Ring circuits are common to distribute
Design load evenly. - Radial circuits are preferred due to higher loads.
- Radial circuits for specific loads like - Sub-circuits are connected to distribution boards
kitchens or heaters. for segregation.
Load - Lower power demand, typically for - Higher power demand for equipment, machinery,
Distribution appliances and lighting. and lighting.
- Smaller cables are used (e.g., 2.5 mm² - Larger cables (e.g., 4 mm², 6 mm², or more) to
Cable Size for ring circuits). handle higher current demands.
Protective - MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) - MCBs, MCCBs (Molded Case Circuit Breakers), and
Devices rated at 20A, 32A. RCBOs for higher protection.

2. Types of Sockets Used

Aspect Domestic Power Circuits Commercial Power Circuits
- Standard BS 1363 13A sockets are - Industrial sockets are used for higher loads.
Socket Type used. Examples include:
- These sockets are for general-purpose - BS EN 60309 (IEC 60309) industrial sockets (16A,
appliances (TVs, chargers, etc.). 32A, 63A, etc.).
Current - 13A sockets are common for domestic - Sockets with higher ratings (e.g., 16A, 32A, 63A) are
Rating use. used for heavy equipment.
Physical - Industrial sockets are weatherproof, robust, and
Features - 3-pin sockets with shutters for safety. color-coded for voltage and current ratings.
- Suitable for low-power appliances and - Designed for high-power machinery, tools, and
Application devices. equipment in workshops, factories, or offices.

Summary Table
Feature Domestic Installations Commercial Installations
Circuit
Ring Circuit and Radial Circuit Radial Circuits with higher load capacity.
Type
Cable Size Smaller cables (e.g., 2.5 mm²). Larger cables (e.g., 4 mm², 6 mm², or more).
Sockets BS 1363 (13A sockets). BS EN 60309 (Industrial sockets).
Protective
MCBs (20A, 32A). MCBs, MCCBs, and RCBOs for higher currents.
Devices

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4-Select MCB and the cable size in figure (c).
1. Motor Current Calculation
Given:
Voltage (V) = 400V (Three-phase)
Power (P) = 1kW = 1000W
Power Factor (cos φ) = 0.8 (assumed for motors unless stated otherwise)
Efficiency (η) = Assumed 0.85 for a small motor
The formula for three-phase motor current is:

The motor current is approximately 2.1A (matches the given value).

2. Selection of MCB
-According to BS 7671:2008, the MCB for motor protection must account for starting currents and
overload protection.
-Motors typically have higher starting currents (5-7 times the full load current), so the MCB must
handle this without tripping.
For a 2.1A three-phase motor, the appropriate MCB would be:
-Type C MCB (to allow for motor starting surges).
-Current rating: 6A (next standard rating above 2.1A).
Justification:
-Type C MCBs are designed to handle inrush currents from motors and inductive loads without
nuisance tripping.
-It complies with BS EN 60898-1 (standard for MCBs).

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3. Selection of Cable Size
The cable size must be selected based on:
1-Full load current (2.1A)
2-Voltage drop limits
3-Installation method (assume Method C: clipped direct for simplicity).
Using Table 4D1A of BS 7671:2008 (PVC insulated cables):
-A 1.5 mm² three-core PVC cable is suitable.
-Current-carrying capacity for 1.5 mm² cable (clipped direct): 16A (far above 2.1A).
-Voltage drop for 1.5 mm² cable over short distances is minimal and within limits.

5- Check whether the cable voltage drop is within acceptable limits or no in figure (c).
1. Given Data
Motor Power (P) = 1 kW = 1000 W
Voltage (V) = 400 V (Three-phase)
Motor Current (Il) = 2.1 A (as previously calculated)
Cable Length = 10 m underground + length from underground to box unit (assume an additional 2
m, totaling 12 m)
Cable Size = 1.5 mm² (as selected earlier)
Installation Method = Underground installation (Method D, reference Table 4D4A, BS 7671:2008)
Voltage Drop Limit =3% of 400V.
2. Voltage Drop Limits
The maximum permissible voltage drop is:
Voltage Drop Limit=3%×400V=12V
The actual voltage drop must be calculated and compared to this limit.

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3. Voltage Drop Calculation
For three-phase circuits, the voltage drop formula is:

Where:
• IbI_bIb: Design current (2.1A)
• RRR: Resistance of the cable (Ω/m)
• LLL: Length of the cable (m)
From Table 4D4A of BS 7671:2008 for 1.5 mm² PVC-insulated cables (buried underground,
Method D):
• Resistance (RRR) for 1.5 mm² cable = 12.1 mΩ/m (at 20°C).
Note: Since this is a three-phase circuit, the actual length is doubled to account for the return
path of the current. Thus, L=12 m×2=24 m
Substitute the values into the formula:

4. Compare Voltage Drop to the Limit

-Calculated Voltage Drop = 0.88V
-Permissible Voltage Drop = 12V
Since 0.88V is much less than the allowable 12V –(3%), the voltage drop is within acceptable
limits.

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5. Check Cable Current Ratings (Iz)
From Table 4D4A of BS 7671:2008 (Method D, buried cables):
• Current-carrying capacity (Iz) for 1.5 mm² cable = 19.5A.
Given:
• Design Current (Ib): 2.1A
• MCB Current Rating (In): 6A
The cable current rating Iz is greater than both Ib and In:

This satisfies the requirements of Regulation 433.1.1 of BS 7671:2008 for overload protection

Stander Reference:
-BS-7671-17-ed-2008
- BS 1363
- BS EN60898-1-2019
- IEC 60335-1
- IEC-60309-1-2021
-table 4D4A - 4D4B

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