Unlike domestic appliances such as kettles or ovens that cycle on and off for minutes at a time, mining hardware draws maximum rated current 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This constitutes a continuous non-linear load under Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules).
The 80% Rule and Thermal Derating
A standard 10A or 15A Australian GPO is rated for intermittent peak loads. Under continuous load, standard terminal pins experience continuous thermal expansion, causing spring tension fatigue over months of operation. In our Dawson lab sessions, we demonstrate why continuous compute loads must never exceed 80% of nominal circuit breaker ratings (e.g., maximum 12.8A continuous on a 16A breaker).
Why C19/C20 Connectors Are Mandatory
Consumer IEC C13 plugs (the standard kettle cord) are rated only to 10A maximum and frequently melt when pushed to 14A under 240V mining power supplies. For any hardware exceeding 2,200 Watts, high-temperature C19 receptacles with 1.5mm² or 2.5mm² heavy-duty flexible rubber sheathing must be utilized.
Residual Current Device (RCD) Selection
Modern switch-mode power supplies produce high-frequency leakage currents. Standard Type-A RCDs can become 'blinded' by DC residual currents generated by multi-stage rectification circuits. We guide facility operators through the proper specification of Type-F or Type-B RCBOs to guarantee trip protection during genuine ground fault conditions.
