Submain and consumer mains terminology
Australian submain, consumer mains and voltage-drop allocation terms used beside cable-run calculators.
Submain and consumer mains language in the workflow
Define cable-run allocation terms without setting a universal design allowance or final cable decision.
| Term | Meaning | Used with | Boundary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consumer mains | Cable-run context between supply point and main switchboard in Australian project records. | Upstream voltage-drop allocation | Exact project meaning follows drawings, authority context and standards review. |
| Submain | Cable-run context feeding a downstream switchboard or distribution board. | Downstream voltage-drop allocation | Do not merge with final subcircuits without a clear record. |
| Final subcircuit | Circuit context downstream of distribution equipment. | Remaining voltage-drop allowance | Allocation must match project method and governing source. |
| Upstream allowance | Part of a project voltage-drop allowance already used before a downstream run. | Submain voltage-drop calculator | The calculator records the entered split; it does not prescribe the split. |
| Downstream reserve | Part of the allowance retained for later circuits or equipment. | Submain and consumer mains worksheets | Reserve values need project design review. |
- Use these terms to keep voltage-drop allocation records clear.
- The project method and governing source control the final allocation.
Where mains terms affect design checks
Use these terms to keep route, supply and switchboard context clear before moving into cable size, voltage drop or maximum-demand checks.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Define cable-run allocation terms without setting a universal design allowance or final cable decision. |
| How to use the source | Term table only; voltage-drop allocation arithmetic lives on the submain voltage-drop calculator. |
| Standards and project context | AS/NZS 3000 and AS/NZS 3008 context noted for project review; verify current source documents and authority requirements. |
| Where judgement is still needed | Use this table for lookup, labelling or worksheet context; do not treat it as a project-specific calculation result. |
| Before relying on it | Confirm current standards, local authority requirements, DNSP conditions, project documents and manufacturer data before relying on a decision. |
Standards basis for mains terminology
Review the Australian standards context and project drawings before relying on a mains term for a design decision.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Source | AUWiring submain voltage-drop calculator fields and Australian low-voltage cable-run terminology. |
| Source type | AUWiring field model with standards context |
| Derivation basis | AUWiring terminology table for cable-run records; design allowances and controlled standards text are not reproduced. |
| Last checked | 2026-07-13 |
| Review interval | Annual or when cable-run terminology, voltage-drop allocation fields or standards context changes. |
| Review trigger | Calculator field change, standards update, authority context change or project feedback. |
| Version used | R08-2026-07-13 |
| Australian application | Australia; project drawings, supply authority, installation context and competent review govern final wording and design decisions. |