diy mains block/extender

Discussion in 'DIY Discussion' started by Emmodd, Jul 3, 2007.

  1. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    Emmodd, Jul 3, 2007
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  2. Emmodd

    zanash

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    bit pricey ? but if cost is no object ...no done similar in the past

    What cable are you going to use ?
     
    zanash, Jul 3, 2007
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  3. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    Not got the foggiest! Any suggestions?

    Already plumped for one of the sockets. Was going to replace wall socket but may as well use for mains extension seeing as I have it.
     
    Emmodd, Jul 3, 2007
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  4. Emmodd

    sq225917 Exposer of Foo

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    the thickest cheapest copper you can buy, B&Q does some great 4mm twin and earth in black silicon rubber £15 for 15feet.

    that what i have between a silver schuko and a missing link silver 6 way block.
     
    sq225917, Jul 3, 2007
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  5. Emmodd

    zanash

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    Ok....

    if it was me .....

    I'd fit the silver socket to the wall ...fit the wall socket in your box [after cleaning the connections ] and sq225917 suggestion of the twin and earth back to the wall ...
     
    zanash, Jul 4, 2007
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  6. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    Can't see the twin and earth mentioned on the B&Q website. What do I need to look for cable wise (size, amp rating etc)?
     
    Emmodd, Jul 4, 2007
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  7. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    Emmodd, Jul 4, 2007
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  8. Emmodd

    zanash

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    Don't go for steel braid its armour not screen !

    I've a part reel of lat thats a ok but not brilliant .....if your interested in a few m's

    What to look for 15-20 amp
    three core with a csa 1.5-2.5 mm2
    screened, double screened is better [in copper]

    had a quick hunt on ebay ...but its all the usual stuff ..nothing stands out.

    As a last resort simple twin and earth 20amp will do the job ..and cheaply too!
     
    zanash, Jul 4, 2007
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  9. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    Thanks, i'll have a look around.
     
    Emmodd, Jul 4, 2007
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  10. Emmodd

    sq225917 Exposer of Foo

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    pop into your local B&Q, its not online, but it's the black rubber outer sheathed cable 3 core, 2.5mm solid core per. like thartic flex stuff but bigger...
     
    sq225917, Jul 4, 2007
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  11. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    Will an MK toughplug accept this diameter cable? Also, what alternatives are there to the 2 gang socket?
     
    Emmodd, Jul 4, 2007
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  12. Emmodd

    zanash

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    A single socket ?.....

    the mk may need a little help to get it in or trim the excess thickness off the cable..down to the three cores then add a little insulation tape ?
     
    zanash, Jul 4, 2007
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  13. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    No, i meant i terms of an extention block. Is there anything I need to look out for in terms of the make up of it?

    Right. Thanks for that - will order the MK. Seems reasonable value for money.

    Noticed that for mains cables you recommend connecting the shield only at the mains end. As a total novice, i don't know whether this will apply in this case?
     
    Emmodd, Jul 4, 2007
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  14. Emmodd

    sq225917 Exposer of Foo

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    shielded main cables? where do you live in a generator room.?
     
    sq225917, Jul 4, 2007
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  15. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    meant screen, not shield
     
    Emmodd, Jul 4, 2007
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  16. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    Emmodd, Jul 4, 2007
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  17. Emmodd

    zanash

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    I'd go for the missing link ....then get a block from wilco ...

    open the block up and remove the brass sheet conductors ..and hard wire with 2.5mm csa cable ...in a star configuration so each socket has the same dirrect route. ie all the grounds are conneted together rather than being in series.
     
    zanash, Jul 5, 2007
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  18. Emmodd

    Emmodd

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    Excellent. Will get ordering.
     
    Emmodd, Jul 5, 2007
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  19. Emmodd

    zanash

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    if you need any advice ...feel free to pm
     
    zanash, Jul 6, 2007
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