A Residual Current Device (RCD) is a safety device that disconnects an electrical circuit if a fault is detected. Normally, the power running through the circuit should be at an even rate; if that changes, there is an issue. It means that the power is being earthed, which often means someone is getting electrocuted or wires are overheating and could cause a fire. An RCD tester ensures that the RCD is working properly, but let’s explore them a little more.
How it works
Two RCD tests must be performed, and the government regulates these. One ensures the RCD system is working, which should be performed every three months by the owner of the premises manager. For this check, the RCD tester is usually built into the RCD. You press the button, and if the power is immediately shut off, you know the system is working. However, it doesn’t tell you how well it is working. The next check should also be conducted regularly but by an accredited professional. These RCD testers measure how long it takes for the RCD to shut down the circuit. It should occur within milliseconds of the fault being detected. The amount of time this should take is also regulated under the Australian and New Zealand standards AS/NZ 3760:2010 in-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
Who can test?
As we have already mentioned, it depends on the test type and who can use an RCD tester. For the simple, working test, anyone can do it. All you need to do is turn off the appliances and machinery, then press the tester button. Now, you can turn things back on, and if anything connected to the circuit you are using an RCD tester on powers up, your RCD system fails. To test how fast your system shuts the circuit down, you must be accredited, and they will make up a report passing or failing your RCD. Any that fail must be replaced.
Purchasing
If you are a technician looking for a new RCD tester, we suggest you contact a reputable dealer and get expert advice to make any purchases. Our top pick is the team at RS, their comprehensive range of RCD testers contains leading brands as well as their own, and they all follow the Australian and New Zealand standards.
An RCD tester checks that an RCD system is working correctly and shutting down a circuit that has a fault. They can test to see that the RCD is working properly, and they can test at what speed, in milliseconds, the system shuts down. RCDs are mandated by the government and have strict standards of working within. For more information on RCD testers or to place an order, contact the experts at RS today.
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