On 27 Apr 2007 08:05:54 GMT, mused:

Clive Mitchell wrote:

The point of a ring main is to spread the load between two smaller
cables allowing easier wiring and termination then a heavy radial
circuit.

I think the original intent when they were first introduced into the
Wiring Regulations was as a means to save copper.

Ring mains were originally introduced as an easy way of converting the
very common 15A radial circuit into a 30A circuit for being able to
plug new fangled electric heaters and such like in. You'd do this by
running a cable from the end of the radial back to the consumer unit
and sticking a 30A fuse in it rather than rewiring the whole circuit.
--
Regards,
Stuart.