How can I identify my supply type?

[user56565]

you're both correct, i shouldn't commit without actually inspecting.
however my reason for being so sure is ive had (what appears to be anyway) the exact same cutout fit for that upstairs flat that i mentioned in another post. i watched siemens install the meter. if the fuse is removed, a screw can be unscrewed that then allows that lid on the neutral section to slide off. that hides a very large neutral+earth brass block. both the neutral and earth cable in this picture are linked to the same connector block, therefore it must be PME. (assuming this cutout is the same as what i saw, and im very sure it is)

 

[kai]

Don't TN-S units have the earth wire, often far too thin, dangling off a soldered connection to the armouring of the supply cable?

 

[plugwash]

older ones with lead and paper cable often do yes (or worse a bonding clamp) ones with modern cable don't

tn-s is a lot rarer in modern installs though.

 

[HDRW]

older ones with lead and paper cable often do yes (or worse a bonding clamp)

Why is a bonding clamp worse? It seems to be good enough for all the other points of earth bonding!

Cheers,

Howard

 

[plugwash]

you shouldn't use bonding clamps on lead because its not hard enough and will therefore tend to migrate away from the clamp.

its quite common to see pretty deep dents in service cables where bonding clamps have been used and if you keep tightning the clamp you will destroy the cable.

 

[kai]

Honestly, has anyone Ever encountered a cable damaged by this method - Nope is the likey answer - just scare mongering I suppose!

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Kai - feel free to crush your lead and paper supply cable.

Let us know how you get on.

 

[Lectrician]

The clamp does leave an indend in the lead sheath, and as it does, it loosens, giving a rather dodgy earth connection. Not good.