RCCB
Residual-current circuit breaker
An RCCB operates on residual current and has no integral overcurrent protection.
SLD / Schematic
IEC · SO-RCD
RCD-protected socket outlet
Plan mark for a socket outlet with residual-current protection built into the accessory itself.
In plain English
What does RCD-protected socket outlet mean?
Some outlets include a residual-current device in the accessory so that protection is provided at the point of use. Plans show this by tagging the outlet with RCD or a small residual-current mark, letting the electrician select a protected accessory instead of relying on the distribution board.
A simple example
This approach is used for single outdoor outlets, refurbishment work where the board cannot take additional RCDs, and outlets used for portable tools. The plan symbol should be read with the board schedule so the designer can avoid double protection or check discrimination between the outlet RCD and an upstream device.
What the drawings help you do
The mark does not state the RCD type, rated residual current or test arrangement. A plain outlet on an RCD-protected circuit is protected at the board and is drawn without this tag.
This particular reference
Plan mark for a socket outlet with residual-current protection built into the accessory itself. An outlet on a circuit protected by a residual-current circuit breaker is drawn plainly; this form puts the RCD in the outlet.
- Rating
- A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
- Schematic
- A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.
Read the source: Form factors of residual-current devices · Residual current device categories · IEC graphical symbols for diagrams
IEC · Socket outlet with residual-current device
IEC 60617 installation-plan style (architectural and topographical installation symbols); independently drawn, not certified IEC geometry or a database identifier.
Shown as an independently authored educational illustration. Use the cited publication and drawing legend to verify the required drafting form.
GA · SO-RCD
What it represents
Some outlets include a residual-current device in the accessory so that protection is provided at the point of use. Plans show this by tagging the outlet with RCD or a small residual-current mark, letting the electrician select a protected accessory instead of relying on the distribution board.
This approach is used for single outdoor outlets, refurbishment work where the board cannot take additional RCDs, and outlets used for portable tools. The plan symbol should be read with the board schedule so the designer can avoid double protection or check discrimination between the outlet RCD and an upstream device.
The mark does not state the RCD type, rated residual current or test arrangement. A plain outlet on an RCD-protected circuit is protected at the board and is drawn without this tag.
How to read it
- Distinguish outlet-integral protection from protection at the board.
- Look for the RCD type in the specification, not on the plan.
Information to show or reference
- State rated residual operating current and RCD type.
- Check discrimination with upstream residual-current devices.
- Show the test button accessibility if mounted high.
A distinction that matters
An outlet on a circuit protected by a residual-current circuit breaker is drawn plainly; this form puts the RCD in the outlet.
Sources you can follow
These public references support the explanation and provide further detail. Their graphics and downloadable files remain with their publishers.
Form factors of residual-current devices
Explains the physical forms residual-current protection can take, including socket-outlet integration.
Residual current device categories
Manufacturer explanation of residual-current device types and categories.
IEC graphical symbols for diagrams
IEC committee context for graphical symbols used in diagrams and installation documents; not a source of reproduced artwork.
About this graphic
This illustration was authored independently by Elora Grid to explain the concept. It is not reproduced from a customer drawing, an official standard graphic or a manufacturer CAD file. Its correspondence to an exact IEC or IEEE symbol identifier has not been certified.
SVG and DXF downloads contain this original artwork. DXF uses unscaled drawing units; a GA envelope supplies no product dimensions, clearances or fabrication information. Original artwork is available under CC BY 4.0. Third-party references retain their own terms.
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