Q: What is Diversity factor (simultaneity)?

A factor (< 1) applied to the summed rated load of circuits because not all loads run at full power at once. Used to size the main feeder, main switch and connection capacity. NEN 1010 §311 gives reference values per occupancy (dwelling, office, industry).

Q: How is Diversity factor (simultaneity) used in practice?

Coincidence factor: Ten 16 A circuits do not yield 160 A main current; with a coincidence factor of 0.5, calculate ~80 A and select the main fuse accordingly.

Q: What is a common mistake with Diversity factor (simultaneity)?

Coincidence factor Common mistake: Sizing the main fuse on the sum of nominal values of all circuits without the coincidence factor — resulting in an unnecessarily heavy and expensive main connection.

Question 1

What is Diversity factor (simultaneity)?

Accepted Answer

A factor (< 1) applied to the summed rated load of circuits because not all loads run at full power at once. Used to size the main feeder, main switch and connection capacity. NEN 1010 §311 gives reference values per occupancy (dwelling, office, industry).

Question 2

How is Diversity factor (simultaneity) used in practice?

Accepted Answer

Coincidence factor: Ten 16 A circuits do not yield 160 A main current; with a coincidence factor of 0.5, calculate ~80 A and select the main fuse accordingly.

Question 3

What is a common mistake with Diversity factor (simultaneity)?

Accepted Answer

Coincidence factor
Common mistake: Sizing the main fuse on the sum of nominal values of all circuits without the coincidence factor — resulting in an unnecessarily heavy and expensive main connection.

See also