How should you determine the KA Rating of a control panel
How should you determine the KA Rating of a control panel
(OP)
When adding a name plate to a control panel with the voltage / current rating etc.. How should the KA of the PANEL be rated for the name plate (ie NOT how is the ka of the supply deterimined). Should it be based on the lowest KA rated device that is connected directly to the incomming supply such as the smallest rated branch circuit fuse or should it be based on the main incomming isolator /breaker fuse KA.





RE: How should you determine the KA Rating of a control panel
In your case, a panel with controls only may be protected to the rating of the main device(fused switch or C/B) if that device is current limiting. Most manufacturers have a 'Series-Rated' manual which lists how an upstream current-limiting device of their manufacture will increase the fault current capability of other downstream interrupting devices.
I would not recommend that you include a fault current rating on your nameplate unless you have proven test results.
RE: How should you determine the KA Rating of a control panel
The testing requirements for anything higher mean essentially blowing up a panel, something that is not worth it for one-off jobs. You build an identical panel, pack it with cotton, subject it to a 25KA fault and see if any of the cotton burns. If not, you apply a higher fault etc. etc. When the cotton burns, your max fault rating is the previous level.
Quando Omni Flunkus Moritati
RE: How should you determine the KA Rating of a control panel
Thanks guys i think the only practical answer is to leave it off.
Snoogie
RE: How should you determine the KA Rating of a control panel
Quando Omni Flunkus Moritati