Max Zs for 32A Type 1 (BS 3871)
Maximum earth fault loop impedance per BS 7671:2018+A4:2026
Use this value when testing at ambient temperature (per Appendix 14)
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The maximum earth fault loop impedance (Zs) of 1.36Ω for a 32A BS 3871 Type 1 MCB ensures automatic disconnection of supply within the required time under fault conditions as specified in BS 7671:2018+A4:2026.
Why 80% Values?
When testing at ambient temperature, conductor resistance is lower than at operating temperature. BS 7671 Appendix 14 recommends using 80% of tabulated values.
Testing Requirements
- • Final circuits ≤63A: disconnect within 0.4s
- • Distribution/fixed equipment: 5s allowed
- • Measured Zs must be ≤ 1.36Ω
EICR Testing Note
During an EICR, if measured Zs exceeds the maximum permitted value, record as Code C2 or C3 depending on the degree of non-compliance.
What is the maximum Zs for a 32A Type 1 (BS 3871)?
The maximum earth fault loop impedance (Zs) for a 32A BS 3871 Type 1 MCB is 1.36Ω when testing at ambient temperature. This is 80% of the BS 7671 table value of 1.71Ω, as recommended by Appendix 14 for testing purposes.
Why use 80% of the BS 7671 Zs value?
BS 7671 Appendix 14 recommends using 80% of tabulated Zs values when testing at ambient temperature. This accounts for increased conductor resistance at normal operating temperature. The correction factor ensures your measured values will still comply when the circuit is under load and conductors are at their maximum operating temperature.
What if measured Zs exceeds 1.36Ω?
If the measured Zs exceeds 1.36Ω for a 32A Type 1 (BS 3871), the protective device may not disconnect within the required time (0.4s for final circuits up to 63A, 5s for distribution circuits). This should be recorded as Code C2 (potentially dangerous) or C3 (improvement recommended) on an EICR, depending on the severity and risk assessment.
Which BS 7671 table is this value from?
The Max Zs value for 32A BS 3871 Type 1 MCB comes from Formula: 230×0.95/(multiplier×In). This table provides maximum earth fault loop impedance values to ensure automatic disconnection within the required time for the BS 3871 standard.
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