- A metal consumer unit is a particular type of distribution board.
- It controls and distributes electrical energy, especially in domestic premises.
- Modern consumer units have ground leakage trips rather than fuses as protection.
- A consumer unit normally has a single horizontal row of miniature circuit breakers.
- The loading current rating is 100 Amps, up to the demanding requirement of the largest home requiring.
Standard Compliance
BS/EN61439-3
Operating Voltage
230V, 50/60Hz
Maximum Load (A)
As indicated on the incoming device
Material
Manufactured from cold rolled steel sheet
Construction
Fully enclosed metal construction body with drop-down metal lid
Cable Entry Knock-outs
Multiple circular knock-outs (25 & 32mm) on top/bottom, 40mm on sides/back, plus larger rear slots
Lid Design
A strong magnet used in the lid closed with a unique design
Din Rail
Raised Din rail improves cable routing
Finish & Wiring Space
Finished in white polyester powder coating to RAL9003. Large, accessible wiring space with extra space for RCBOs
Flexible Connection
Allows for various configurations of protected ways
| Unit Characteristics |
| Rated and Operational Voltage (Un/Ue) |
230V |
| Rated impulse Withstand Voltage (Uimp) |
4kV |
| Rated Current of Assembly (InA) |
100A, 63A, 40A |
| Rated Frequency (fn) |
50/60 Hz |
| Degree of Protection |
IP20 |
| Mechanical Impact Protection |
IK05 |
Note: Rated diversity factor (RDF) only applies to continuously and simultaneously loaded circuits.
| Wiring Type |
Functional Features |
| Main Switch Consumer Unit |
Provides the highest degree of circuit separation, as all circuits must be independently protected against leakage. |
| Dual RCD Consumer Unit |
Provides a cost-efficient solution in compliance with the regulations by using two RCDs to protect two sets of circuits from ground leakage. |
| High Integrity Consumer Unit |
Typically used in larger properties with a greater number of circuits, this type of consumer unit provides good circuit separation by using two or more RCDs while allowing independent use of the RCBO. Typically, this type of consumer unit also allows for a fully flexible configuration, meaning that there is no limit to the number of RCBOs used. |
| RCD Consumer Unit |
Less common than other types, RCD inputs do not use a master switch. They are usually used as sub-boards of the main switchboard. |
| Product Number |
Description |
Usable Ways |
Outline Dimensions |
| Width(mm) |
High (mm) |
Depth(mm) |
| CJME2/S |
2 Module with din rail only |
2ways |
87 |
154 |
108 |
| CJME4/S |
4 Module with din rail only |
4ways |
123 |
184 |
108 |
| CJME2 |
2 Module with din rail only |
2ways |
87 |
243 |
108 |
| CJME4 |
4 Module with din rail only |
4ways |
123 |
243 |
108 |
| CJMFS100 |
100A Metal Fused Switch |
4ways |
123 |
243 |
115 |
| CJMCU4 |
4 Module Metal Consumer Unit |
4ways |
123 |
243 |
108 |
| CJMCU5 |
5 Module Metal Consumer Unit |
5ways |
141 |
243 |
108 |
| CJMCU6 |
6 Module Metal Consumer Unit |
6ways |
158 |
243 |
108 |
| CJMCU8 |
8 Module Metal Consumer Unit |
8ways |
208 |
243 |
108 |
| CJMCU10 |
10 Module Metal Consumer Unit |
10ways |
243 |
243 |
108 |
| CJMCU14 |
14 Module Metal Consumer Unit |
14ways |
315 |
243 |
108 |
| CJMCU18 |
18 Module Metal Consumer Unit |
18ways |
394 |
243 |
108 |
| CJMCU22 |
22 Module Metal Consumer Unit |
22ways |
467 |
243 |
108 |
- This unit must be installed by a qualified competent person in accordance with all relevant legislation and regulations including building regulations and wiring regulations BS7671. If in doubt contact a qualified competent person.
- The total current supplied by the unit must not exceed the rating of the incoming main switch or RCCB or any additional limitation (as shown on the way label).
- The total sum of the individual MCB ratings may exceed this value where there is appropriate diversity on the installation.
- This product is suitable for indoor use only and is rated at IP20.
- The MCBs fitted to this unit are calibrated at 30°C in accordance with the temperature calibration requirements of EN60898.
- Adjacent Thermal Magnetic MCBs should not be continuously loaded or approach their nominal rated currents when mounted in enclosures. It is recommended that a 60% diversity factor be applied to the MCBs nominal rated current where it is intended to load the MCB continuously.
Q1: What is a metal consumer unit?
A: A metal consumer unit is a specialized type of electrical distribution board designed to safely control and distribute electrical energy, primarily in residential and domestic premises.
Q2: What electrical standards do these consumer units meet?
A: These metal consumer units are manufactured and tested in strict compliance with the BS/EN61439-3 standard.
Q3: Can these distribution boards be installed outdoors?
A: No, these units are rated at IP20 protection degree, meaning they are designed and certified for dry indoor installation only.
Q4: What are the main wiring configuration options available?
A: They support four main configurations to fit different circuit needs: Main Switch Consumer Unit, Dual RCD Consumer Unit, High Integrity Consumer Unit, and RCD Consumer Unit.
Q5: What is the recommended diversity factor for continuous loads on MCBs?
A: For continuously loaded circuits, it is highly recommended to apply a 60% diversity factor to the miniature circuit breaker's nominal rated current to prevent excessive thermal buildup.
Q6: Who is qualified to install this consumer unit?
A: The unit must be installed by a qualified and competent professional in strict accordance with national building regulations and wiring safety regulations (such as BS7671).