Device raises bar in electrical safety and fire protection

THE EATON AFDD+, an arc fault detection device that provides critical all-in- one protection against electrical fires in homes and buildings, is now available from the power management company.

With built-in arc fault detection, earth leakage current protection (RCD), short circuit and overcurrent protection (MCB) technology in one compact device, the AFDD+ can be easily installed on switchboards for new- builds or retrofitted in residential applications, says Eaton.

Dan Agnew, General Manager, Power Distribution ANZ said with the AS/NZS 3000 electrical installations standard mandating the use of arc fault detection devices for specific installations, and a rising number of electrical ignited fires in New Zealand – now is a good time for electricians, builders and owners to future proof electrical installations and prioritise fire prevention and community safety.

“Often hidden and hard to detect manually, arc faults can be caused by repeatedly pulling out cables by the cord, the crushing of trapped cables or even pet and rodent damage. Without detection, arc faults can cause a build-up of carbon which can easily ignite and potentially result in an extremely costly or deadly fire.

“Standard switchboards with RCD and MCB circuit protection are unable to detect electrical arc faults that are the root cause of most fires – so by adding an extra layer of protection with Eaton AFDD+, arc faults can be detected early, immediately isolating the damaged cable and effectively eliminating the ignition point.”

Already widely used in Europe and the United States, the Eaton AFDD+ is the first IEC- based solution in the world to combine all three protective layers in one device, states the manufacturer.

The AS/NZS 3000 electrical installations standard has made arc fault detection devices mandatory in locations storing flammable materials or containing irreplaceable items, historic buildings constructed with flammable materials and school dormitories.

The Eaton AFDD+ comes in multiple options ranging from 10 to 40 amps, with in-built 30mA Type A RCD. Devices come with a purposedesigned busbar comb for easy installation.

Available from leading electrical wholesalers.