BOX AND LUMINAIRE (LIGHTING FIXTURE) SUPPORT Box and Enclosure Supports Q) Nails, where used, can attach brackets on the outside of the enclosure, or extend through the interior within Ys in. (6 mm) of the back or ends of the enclosure >> 314.23(8)(1) «. @ An enclosure supported from a struc- tural member of a building shall be rigidly supported either directly or by use of a brace (metal, polymeric, or wood) 9 314.23(B) «. @ Wood braces must have a cross section of at least 1 in, by 2 in. (25 mm py 50 mm) »>314.23(B)(2)«. NOTE Ann enclosure mounted on a building or other surface shath be rigidly and securely fas- tened ins place. Ifthe mounte ing surface does not provide rigid and secure support additional support must be provided in accordance with 314.23 provisions 9314,23(A)«. GAUTION Screws passing through the box (with exposed threads in the bax) are not permitted, unless they ‘are protected using approved means. Exposed threads could be abrasive to conductor insulation ITE 23(BY(1).ting Enclosures in Finished Surfaces _ © No support is required where the cable is fished between access points, concealed in the finished surface, and where such supporting of the cable is impractical. Armored cable support provisions are found in 320.30(8)(1), for metal- clad cable in 330,30(8)(1), and for nonmetallic- sheathed cable in 334.30(B)(1). © An enclosure mounted in a finished surface must be rigidly secured to the surface by clamps, anchors, or fittings identified for the application »314.23(0)«,Enclosures in Suspended Ceilings @ Raceways cannot be supported by ceiling grid support wires. Raceways can be secured to independent (addi- tional) support wires that are secured at both ends 9 300,11(A) «. © An enclosure mounted in a suspended ceiling system shall be fastened to framing members by mechanical means (bolts, screws, rivets, clips, etc.) identified for use with the enclosure(s) and ceiling framing member(s) employed, The framing members must be adequately supported and securely fastened to one another as well as to the building structure »314.23(D}(1) «. N22) for wiring located ed floor-celingEnclosures with Conduit Entries on One Side An enclosure can be supported by conduits entering on the same side when all of the following conditions are met: (1) the enclosure does not exceed 100 cu. in (1650 cm’) in size; (2) the enclosure has threaded entries or hubs identified for the Purpose; (3) the enclosure is supported by two or more conduits threaded ‘wrenchtight into the enclosure or hubs; and (4) each conduit is secured within 18 (450 mm) of the enclosure )>314.23(E) « © Unused cable or raceway openings in boxes and conduit bodies must be closed 50 that the protection provided is at least equal to that provided by the wall of the box or conduit body 9 110.1214), © Boxes must be supported within 18 in. (450 mm), whether or not they contain devices or support fixtures, if all the conduits enter on the same side, unless the Fequirements of 314.23(F) Exception No. 2 are met NOTE Boxes cannot be supported by one conduit less the requirements of 314.23(F) Exception No, 2 are mei, Intermediate ‘Metal Conduit Onlyures (No Device, Luminaires [Lighting Fixtures], or Lampholders) Supported eways ‘enclosure that contains no devices or supports no. © Only rigid or intermediate metal conduit with threaded Alighting fixtures), can be supported by entering ends are permitted in 314.23(€) when all of the following conditions are met: (1) ure does not exceed 100 cu. in. (1650 A size; (2) the enclosure has threaded or hubs identified for the pur- {G) the enclosure is supported by more conduits threaded wrench- == 300 a a CO = 2 Eo = into the enclosure or hubs; and (4) J ES conduit is secured within 36 in mm) ofthe enclosure, unless all = are on the same side >» 314,23(6)« Bipported by Raceways oF other equipment can be supported by entering, ays when all of the following conditions are (1) the enclosure does not exceed 100 cu. in 11650 cm) in size; (2) the enclosure has threaded entries or hubs identified for the purpose; (3) the enclosure is supported by two or more conduits threaded wrenchtight into the enclosure or hubs; and (4) each conduit is secured within 18 in. (450 tm) of the enclosure > 314,23(F)X«. closures (with Devices, Luminaires [Lighting ixtures], or Lampholders) ‘An enclosure that contains devices (other than splicing ices), supports luminaires lighting fixtures), lamphold- © An outlet box can support a luminaire (lighting fixture) “weighing 50 pounds (23 kg) or less, unless the box i listed for a ‘weight greater than the luminaire (lighting fixture) »> 314.27(B)Enclosures with Conduit Entries on One Side © Anenclosure can be supported by conduits entering on the same side when all of the following conditions are met: (1) the enclosure does not exceed 100 cu. in. (1650 cm*) in size; (2) the enclosure has threaded entries or hubs identified for the purpose; (3) the enclosure is supported by two or more conduits threaded \wrenchtight into the enclosure or hubs; and (4) each conduit is secured within 18 in, (450 mm) of the enclosure >» 314.23(E)« © Unused cable or raceway openings in boxes and conduit bodies must be closed so that the protection provided is at least equal to that provided by the wall of the box or conduit body >> 110.12(A) «. @ Boxes must be supported within 18 in, (450 mm), whether or not they contain devices or support fixtures, if all the conduits enter on the same side, unless the requirements of 314.23(F) Exception No. 2 are met. NOTE Boxes cannot be supported by one conduit urcless the ‘requirements of 314.23(F) Exception No. 2 are met. Rigid or Intermediate ‘Metal Conduit 48iin, (450 mm)Support for Conduit Bodies (Condulets) © Any size conduit body (condulet) not containing a device(s), luminaire(s) ighting fix- tures{s}), lampholder(s), or other equipment can be supported by rigid metal, intermediate metal, or rigid nonmetallic conduit or electrical metalic tubing, provided the conduit body's trade size is no larger than the largest trade size of the supporting raceway »» 314.23(E) Exception“. Within this section, no consideration is given to splicing devices. © Conduit body support must be rigid and secure »» 314.16(C\2)«& @ rediate metal conduit, duit, dnd electrical metalic tubing NOTE A raceway supposted conduit body that contains a device(s), ani aire(s) (lighting fixture|s)), lam= phoalder(s), or other eqicipment _must be supported by either rigid metal or intermediare msezal co duit only. The trade size of the wnt boudy must not be larger thaw the largest tide size of the supporting raceway. 99 314,23(F) Exception No. 1, The only conduit body not requite + ing tn0 support raceways is a conduit body constructed with only one conduit entry > 314,23(E) Exception.Supporting Luminaires (Lighting Fixtures) Using Lengths of Conduit Longer Than 18 In. © 314.23(F) Exception No. 2 permits unbroken length(s) of rigid or intermediate metal conduit to support a box used for luminaire (lighting fixture) cr lampholder support, or to support a wiring enclosure within a luminaire (lighting fixture) where all of the following conditions are met: © The length of conduit extending beyond the last point of securely fastened support does not exceed 3 ft (200 mm), @ A luminaire (lighting fixture) supported by a single conduit does not exceed 12 in. (300 mm), in any direction, from the point of conduit entry © The weight supported by any single conduit cannot exceed 20 pounds (9 kg). @ At the luminaire (lighting fixture) end, each conduit (if more than one) is threaded wrenchtight into the box or witing enclosure, or into hubs identified for the purpose, @ Where accessible to unqualified persons, the luminaire's (lighting fixture’s) lowest point is at least 8 ft (2.5 m) abovegrade (or standing area) and at least 3 ft (900 mm) [measured horizontally to the 8 ft (2.5 m) elevation] from windows, doors, porches, fire escapes, or similar locations, © The unbroken conduit before the last point of support is 12 in, (300 mm) or greater, and that portion of the conduit is securely fastened not less than 12 in, (300 mm) from its last point of supportrain Relief for Flexible Cords @) Multiconductor cord or cable used to support a box must be protected in an approved manner so that the conductors are not subjected to strain. Astrain-relief con- ))314,23(H)(1).Luminaire (Lighting Fixture) Hanger 0 314.27(B) requires an independent support, such as a luminaire (lighting fixture) hanger, for luminaires (lighting fixtures) that weigh more than 50 pounds (23 kg) unless the box is listed. © When raceway fittings are used to support lumi- naire(s) (lighting fixture[s]), they must be capable of supporting the combined weight of the luminaire (lighting fixture) assembly and lamp(s) 9» 410.16(F) «.duit Stems Supporting Luminaires (Lighting Fixtures) {An outlet box can support luminaires lighting fixtures) weighing no more than 50 mnds (23 kg), unless the box is ited for a weight greater than the luminaire jghting fixture). A separate means for supporting a luminaire (lighting fixture) independent of the outlet box) i also permitted »314.27(B)<« ‘stems longer than 18 in, (450 mm) shall be con- ae nected to the wiring system with flexible fittings suit- Any point ofa “able fr the location. At the luminaire (lighting fixture) (fixture) supported by ‘end, the conduit(s) shall be threaded wrenchtight into de conduit must be atleast the box or wiring enclosure, or into hubs identified 5m) abovegrade or forthe purpose »»314,23¢H)(2) « area) and at feast 3 ft mi) (rcasured herizon- ‘A box supporting lampholders, luminaires Cighting firtures), or wiring enclosures within luminaires “tally to the 8 ft [2.5 m] eleva- {ighting fixtures) used in lieu of boxes in compliance on) fro windows, doors, ‘with 300.15(B) must be supported by rigid or interme- a. escapes, 07 similar diate metal conduit stems »314.23(H)(2)« * _~ eee : DA luminaie cighting ture) supported by a single Pana fn eae “conduit shall not exceed 12 in. (300 mm) in any hori- st eeu) is wed zontal direction from the point of conduit entry ie 314. 23(H)02)« Tesaires (Lighting Fixtures) Device Boxes Suppo! QA wall-mounted luminaire (lighting fixture) weighing no more than 6 "pounds (3 kg) can be supported by boxes (such as device boxes) not specifically designed to support luminaires (lighting fixtures), provided the luminaire (lighting fixture) or its supporting yoke is secured to the box with at east two No. 6 or larger screws. Plaster rings, secured to other boxes, are also acceptable >>314.27(A) Exception Not over 6 pounds Holes for two No. 6 (6/32) screwsMounting Nonmetallic Boxes ® Supporting screws for nonmetallic boxes must be mounted outside of the box, unless the box is constructed in a manner that prevents contact between the conductors in the box and the supporting screws »» 314.43.o Boxes used at luminaire (lighting fixture) or lampholder outlets must be designed for the purpose. Every box used exclusively for lighting must be designed and installed so that a luminaire (lighting fixture) may be attached »» 314.27(A)«. © An outlet box can support a luminaire (lighting fixture) weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg), unless the outlet box is listed for the weight to be supported >» 314.27(B) . @ Inspection of the connections between luminaire (lighting fixture) conductors and circuit conductors must be possible without having to disconnect any part of the wiring (unless the luminaires [lighting fixtures] are connected by attachment plugs and receptacles) »> 410.16(B) . NOTE Typically, two No. 8 (8/32) screws are used to attach a luminaire (light- ing fiscture) or its support- ing yoke to an outlet box.Ceiling-Suspended (Paddle) Fan Boxes © An outlet box cannot be used as the sole means of sup- port for a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan unless the box is (1) listed, (2) marked by the manufacturer as suitable for the Purpose, and (3) supporting a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan weighing 70 pounds (32 kg) or less. For outlet boxes or outlet box systems designed to support ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans weighing more than 35 pounds (16 kg), the required marking must include the maximum weight that can be sup- ported >» 314.27(D)<«. © Ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans must be ‘Supported inde- pendently of an outlet box, unless the listed outlet box or outlet box system is identified for the use and installed in accordance with 314.27(D). > 422.18«,er © The box depth must be large enough to provide proper ductors. Calculations are based on the installation of the raceway (or cable), including locknuts and of conductors. 314.28 is used to deter- bushings. ize requirements for 4 AWG and larger con- volts). Calculations here are based on the of raceways. for 4 AWG and larger conductors (under med based on the size and numbers of 4.284. jing straight pulls are sized according to the y entering the box. The length must be at least ‘trade diameter of the largest raceway 30x width must be large enough to provide proper of the raceway (or cable), including locknuts and Straight Pull 2: x8 = 16 in. (rade ameter of largest acoway)length must be at least eight times the trade diameter. @ Conduit bodies and boxes (junction, pull, and outlet) must Jargest single raceway. No extra space is required for be installed so that the wiring they contain can be made acces- raceways when calculating the minimum length of sible without removing any partof the building »»314.29 pulls. However, additional space is needed for the : \ a I rt Ee weet ‘of additional raceways, including locknuts and bushings Be as cat Wepmed Straight Pull 3 x8 (ade diameter of largest raceway) in,Angle Pull—Multiple Raceways © Where splices or where angle or U pulls are made, the distance between each raceway entry into the box and the opposite wall must be at least six times the trade NOTE, diameter of the largest raceway in a row. This distance is increased for additional race- All gall bones jutaran way entries (in the same row on the same wall of the box) by the sum of the diame- rid aniaic tela ters of all other raceway entries »314.28(A)(2) « Ticcet waka. © To calculate the dimension of a box with angle pulls, start with one wall where the the box or conduit body. raceways enter the box, and find the distance to the opposite wall of the box. The sation ard must be path of the conductors is irrelevant to this calculation. “forthe conditions of nse ick one wall and multiply the largest raceway (trade diameter) by 6. Add to that 314. 28/0), number the trade diameter of all other raceway(s) in the same row, on the same side of the box. 8% 02" 2 ‘Angle Pul for “Y" Dimension 3% x6 + 24242 (rade diameter of a other raceway “Guest raceway) “inthesame on on the same wal) Angle Pull for "X" Dimension uo|suawiq Aw [POMONA -— ul za —4 4 x6 + 2+ 2% = 2i (ase ameter of aches cena ere cn the same wal) Where a box contains both straight and angle (or U) tually to,find the dimension. HH 29 in. ———4 ‘The Horizontal "X* Dimension _Altvays selec the largest dimensions.Raceways Enclosing the Same Conductors © Raceways containing the same conductors cannot be closer than six times the largest raceway, even if they are on different walls >» 314.28(A)(2)« @ Since no other raceways enter on the same wall of the box, no additional raceway diameters are added. 2 x6+ o =12 in. ae arate ote ac, a cn the same wall Raceways Enclosing the Same Conductors. 2 x 6+ o =12in. 2 x6= 12 ‘ade diameter of (ahother raceways, Grae diameter of = Ines acsus) niin tone Ingest raceway) ‘on the same wal)multiple rows of raceways enter a box, calculate separately. Use the single row that provides the im distance >>314.28(A)(2) «. ary divider line separating each row ym each row calculation as ifn a separate box. gle Pull for “Y" Dimension (Back Row) x64 3+ 32 = 31 in (Ghoterraceoays, in the same row, con the same wal Pull for “Y" Dimension (Front Row) X64 34+3+2%+2% = 32 in. (alother raceways, in the same fo onthe same wall) Pull for “X" Dimension (Back Row) 4 x6+ 444 = 32in. ameter of other racewars, Ingest raceway in he same ror con the same wal ile Pull for "x" Dimension (Front Row) 3% «X64 3424242 = 32 in lancer ot Ca other raceway One RoW ents inthe same row for "Y" one sae we) Denver One Row for "Y" Dimension One Row for "X" Dimension One Row for "X" DimensionU Pull—Two Raceways © Use the angie pull method to calculate U pulls. A box with conduit entries only on one wall has a minimum distance to the opposite wall. Multiply the largest raceway by 6 and add the sum of the trade diameters of the other raceway(s) entering the same wall »»314.28(A)(2) «. © The minimum box width must include 12 in. between raceways plus the thickness of the two raceways (including enough area to provide proper installation of lacknuts and bushings). @ The distance between raceways enclosing the same con- ductor(s) must be at least 6 times the trade diameter of the largest raceway )>314.28(A)(2)«. 12 in. Between Raceways U Pull for “Y" Dimension Raceways Enclosing 2 eee 2 =44 in. the Same Conductors (trade dameter of ‘other raceways, 2 x6 = 12 in. largest raceway) in the same row, (Grade diameter of on the same wal largest raceway)Raceways Entering Opposite Removable Covers © Where angle pulls are made, the distance between each raceway entry into the box and the opposite wall of the box ‘must be at least six times the trade diameter of the largest raceway »>314.28(A)(2) «. Where no other raceways enter the same wall of the box, no additional raceway diameters are added. © Where a raceway or cable enters the wall of a box (or conduit body) opposite a removable cover, the distance from 500 kemil Conductors 6 in Front View Side View the entry wall to the cover can be determined by the distance requirements for one wire per terminal found in Table 312.6(A) ») 314.28(A)@2) Exception «. @ The minimum distance between raceways enclosing the same conductor(s) is six times the trade diameter of the largest raceway »>314.28(A)(2)« Raceways or Cables Entering Boxes ‘Opposite from Removable Covers Minimum Wire Size Distance from (AWG or Wall to Cover emit ‘o ma 43 2 508 2 mh 635 1 3 76.2 110-2/0 3% as 3/0-4/0 4 102 250 ah 114 300-350 5 127 400-500 6 182 600-700 8 203 750-900 8 203 1000-1250 10 254 1500-2000 2 305ialler-size conduit bodies can generally same number and sizes of conductors (6 d smaller) as the raceway entering the body. Conduit bodies (and boxes) are ufactured that are smaller than those red by 314.28(A)(1) and (2). These may be ifapproved and permanently marked show- maximum number and size conductors d 9 314.28(A)(3) Three 250 kcmil conductors are the maxi- am number and size permitted in this conduit dy. | According to Chapter 9 and Table C8, four 300 kemil THHN conductors can be installed in a rigid metal condult. )If a conduit body is durably and legibly d by the manufacturer with the volume, it ancontain splices, taps, or devices 314. 16(C)(2)«. WARNING Conduit bodies do not have to be large enough to | contain the same size and number of conductors per- tied in the raceway that enters the conduit body. ie conduit bodies are marked with the maximum ‘ize and number of conductors.With Permanent Stairs or Ladders es within 7 ft (2.1m) of the floor (or floor joist) can run the studs if meeting the requirements of 300.4(0). more than 7 ft (2.11 m) above the floor (or floor joist) un across the face of framing members. les are installed across the face of rafters or studding are located within 7 ft (2.1 m) of the floor (or floor attics or roof spaces that are accessible, the cable must ected by substantial guard strips that are at least as high 320.23(A) «. bles running across the top of floor joists must be pro- by substantial guard strips that are of sufficient height to ely protect the cable »?320.23(A) «. ble installed parallel to the sides of rafters, studs, or floor does not require guard strips or running boards; however, salltion must also comply with 300.4(D) »»320.23(8) « 9 Cables not installed on the face (or surface) do not require d strips or running boards. bles installed in attics (and roof spaces) accessible by nt stairs (or ladders) must meet 320.23 provisions. NOTE ind nommetalliesheathed cable mst also ‘with 320.23 330.23 and 334.23.) points of AC cable shall have a fitting to protect he wires from abrasion, unless the outlet boxes (or fittings) are designed afford equivalent protection. In addition, an insulating bushing (or its valent protection) shall be provided between the conductors and the ir 9320.40 «. Type AC cable shall have a flexible metal tape armor 320.100. The connector or clamp that fastens Type AC cable to boxes or cabi- must be designed so that the insulating bushing (or its equivalent) is ble for inspections »?320.40 «. Type AC cables shall have an internal bonding strip (copper or alu- Some insulating (antishort) bushings are manufactured so that part of bushing extends past the connector or clamp (once installed), effec- ly acting as a flag. This flag increases the visibility of the bushing after stalation NOTE, \ Tusulating bushings in Type MC table are optional rather ha required. Although Artiste 330 does not ‘require an insulating bushing between the conductors cand the armor, it is a good practice to use one.Exposed Runs of Type AC and MC Cables Under Joists © Exposed runs of Type AC cable installed on the underside of joists must be supported (and secured) at every joist and must be located so that physical damage is avoided 320.15 «. © Type MC cable must be supported (and secured) at inter- vals of 6 ft (1.8 m) of less »>330.30(B) and (C) «.Exposed Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable in Unfinished Basements. 8 Exposed nonmetallic-sheathed cable (smaller than 8 AWG if three- conductor, or 6 AWG if two-conducton) running at angles with joists in unfinished basements must either be run through bored holes in the joists or on running boards »>334.15(C) «. © The nearest outside surface of installed and supported cable must be at least 1% in. (32 mm) from the nearest edge of the framing member where nails or screws are likely to penetrate »>300.4(A)(1) «. @ Three-conductor 8 AWG, or two-conductor 6 AWG, or larger, can be secured directly to the lower edges of the joists »»334.15(C) «. Q Where current-carrying conductors in multiconductor cables are bundled or stacked longer than 24 in. (600 mm) without maintaining spacing, reduce the allowable ampacity of each conductor as shown in Table 310.15(8)(2)(a) »»310.15(8)(2Xa) «ic-Sheathed Cable Passing Through a Floor “= Exposed Nonmet: Cables entering or exiting conduit (or tubing) used for sup- @ Nonmetallic-sheathed cable passing through a floor must port or protection against physical damage require fittings be enclosed in rigid (or intermediate) metal conduit, electrical ‘on the conduit (or tubing ) ends to prevent cable abrasion metalic tubing, Schedule 80 PVC rigid nonmetallic conduit, or other approved means that extends at least 6 in. (150 mm) 99 300.15(C) «. above the floor »>334.15(8) «.Three-Phase Conductor Identification Generally, ungrounded (hot) conductors can be any color except white, gray, green, or green with yellow stripe(s). A widely accepted practice is to ‘identify 3-phase ungrounded (hot) conductors as black, red, and blue in 208/120 volt, 4-wire, wye- connected systems; and brown, orange, and yellow in 480/277 volt, 4-wire, wye-connected systems. Grounded (or neutral) conductor @ Grounding conductor Inteslocking-armor Type MC cable requires an equipment grounding conductor. ‘Metal-Clad Cableneral Conductor Identification Provisions lly, a conductor with a continuous white (or gray) ing shall be used only as a grounded-circuit conductor 7K lipment grounding conductors can be bare, covered, slated. Individually covered (or insulated) equipment ining conductors must have a continuous outer finish is either green or green with yellow stripe(s) 119 ‘Conductors used as ungrounded (hot) conductors, ther single conductors or in multiconductor cables, must finished in a way that clearly distinguishes them from and grounding conductors > 310.12(C)« tunded (hot) conductors (except for a high-leg conduc- ‘an be any color other than white, gray, green, or green yellow stripes). Metal-Clad Cable Nonmetallic-Sheathed CableWhite Conductor Used as Ungrounded Switch Leg (Loop) © A cable's white or gray conductor can be used as a switch loop (leg) in single-pole, three-way, and four-way switch installations, even though itis an ungrounded (hot) conductor > 200.7(C)(2)«. © The white or gray conductor's new use must be permanently reidentified by painting or other effective means at its terminations, and at each location where the conductor is visible and accessi- ble »200.7¢C)(2} «. @ Blue tape has been wrapped around the white conductor, reidentiying it as an ungrounded (hot) conductor. White, gray, green, or green with yel- low stripe(s) tape (or paint) cannot be used. © The white or gray conductor can be used to feed a switch or can be a traveler in three-way (or four-way) switch installations. The white or gray conductor cannot be used as a return conductor from the switch to the switched outlet »200.710)12) «. Octagon Box To Supply white H Black (Grounded) (Return) Conductor © Conductor Type Me Cable CAUTION A white or gray white ‘Conductor conductor shall not be used as a return conducior from the switch to the switched outlet (light, reeprde,et,) 200, 1C)2KWhite Conductor Used as an Ungrounded (Hot) Conductor © The white or gray conductor can be used as an ungrounded (hot) conductor if it is part of a cable assembly. It must be permanently reidentified as an ungrounded conductor by painting or other effec- tive means at its termi ion, and at each location where the conductor is visible and accessible »9200.7(0)(1) «. Gs Awhite or gray conductor in a conduit (or raceway) cannot be used (or reidentified) 5 an ungrounded conductor. BlueTape Equipment Grounding Conductor 240-Volt’ Receptacle NOTE Mentification must encircle the insulation and shall be a color other thaws white, gray, or green 200. 7(C)(1)Conductor Used as a Traveler grounded-circuit conductors are not required at switch locations, product technology (such as occupancy sensors, home automation programmable controllers, etc.) may require a grounded-circuit uctor. For this reason, installing a grounded-circuit conductor at locations is a design issue worth consideration. white or gray conductor can feed a ‘or can be a traveler in three-way (or )) switch installations. The white or The white or gray conductor's new use >be permanently reidentified by painting her effective means at its terminations, each location where the conductor is ‘and accessible »» 200.7(C)(1)«. | Grounded-circuit conductors are not red at switch locations » 404.2(A) ception Feed to One “Three-Way Switch (Ungrounded (Return) ‘grounding conductor (green, green “with yellow stripe(s) or bare) cannot be “used (or reidentified) as an underground at) or a grounded (white) conductor. 404. 2AM.UNDERGROUND INSTALLATIONS r for Direct-Burial Cables Conductors oo If she cover depth requirements of Table 300.5 cannot be met due t0 the presence of solid rock, the wiring must be installed in measurement commences atthe top surface of any 1 se cule tghel apoel ote1 betal He -burial wiring method (conductor, cable, conduit, or raceways must then be covered by « minimum of 2 in. (50 man) raceway) and ends at the closest point of the finished of concrete that extends down to the soltd rock surface ade's top surface (including concrete, etc.) »»Table 300.5, Nowe 54, Table 300.5«¢. Raceways must enclose cables and conductors located under .ct-burial cables or conductors. Table 300.5, buildings »300.5(C) ard Table 300.5«, (One: and two-family dwoling Under minimurn of in. (100-tnm) thick » 300.5(D)(1) @ Conductors entering a building shall be protected to the point of entry »» 300.5(D)(2)« @ Raceways and boxes shall be fastened in place securely >» 300.1144) @ Protection must extend below grade to a depth matching Table 300.5 cover requirements, up to a maximum depth of 18 in. (450 mm) »» 300.5(0)(1) @ Direct-buried conductors, raceways, or cables subject to move- ‘ment by settlement (or frost) must be arranged to prevent damage to both the enclosed conductors and the equipment connected to the raceways >» 300.5)<< @ Excavation backfill cannot contain large rock, paving materials, cinders, large or sharp substances, or corrosive materials where dam- age to raceways or cables may occur. Provide protection in the form of granular or selected material, suitable running boards, suitable sleeves, or other approved means to prevent physical damage to the raceway or cable »? 300.5(F) « @ where the conductors or cables emerge as a direct-burial wiring method, install a bushing or fitting to protect conductors from abra~ sion on the end of the conduit (or tubing) that terminates under- ground. A seal incorporating the same protective characteristics can be used in lieu of a bushing »> 300.5(H) and 300.15(C)<« 300.5 recognizes “S” loops in underground direct burial to race- way transitions, expansion joints in raceway risers to fixed equipment, and the provision of flexible connections to equipment subject to settlement or frost heaves >» 300.5()) FPN«Cables Permitted Underground Cable Types Article IGS Integrated Gas-Spacer Cable 326 MV Medium Voltage Cable 328 MI Mineral-Insulated Metal-Sheathed Cable 332 MC Metal-Clad Cable (where identified for such use) 330 USE Underground Service-Entrance Cable 338 UF Underground Feeder (and Branch-Circuit) Cable 340for Residential Branch Circuits tial branch circuits rated 120 volts (or less) with FCI protection and maximum overcurrent protection of 20 nperes. Table 300.5 _ Racewways must enclose cables and conductors located ngs. These raceways must extend beyond the building's ‘One- and two-family dwelling driveways (and Under minimum of 4-n,(100-mm) thick conerete ‘extend at least 6 in. [150 mm) beyond the ‘underground installation) “i N TE ©The minimum cover for esidental branch crits, in or under -aiqport runways (ineluding adjacent areas wliere trespassing is prohibited), is 18 én, (430 mm) Table 300.5, Lesser depths are permitted where cables and conductors rise for terminations (or splices) or where access is otherwise required »»Table 300.5, Note 3. Streets, highways, ‘outdoor parking areas) exterior slab with no vehicular trafic the slab must In trench below 2+n roads alleys, used only for dwelling related purposes (60-m thick concrete or equivalent diveways, and parking lots * (60 rimver for Low Voltage Circuits its for control of irrigation and landscape lighting lim- ited to not more than 30 volts and installed with Type UF or nother identified cable (or raceway). Table 300.5 NOTE Where « wiring method Usted in Table 300.5, columns 1-3, is used for « circuit type in columns 4 and 3, the shallower depth of bisial is allowed Y¥Table 300.5, Note 3. (One- and two-family dwelling diveways (and ‘outdoor parking areas) used Under minimum of 4-n. (100-m) tick only for dweling-related concrete exterior slab with no vehicular Streets, highways, purposes AND airport Aljocttons NOT traffic (he slab must extend a least 6 in roads, alleys, runways, induding adjacent Specie in Table [150 mm] beyond the underground In tench below 2-in, (60-mm) dnveways, and areas where trespassing is Installation) thick conerete or equivalent parking lots prohibited egoSPECIAL APPLICATION CABLES Flat Conductor Cable (for Installation Under Carpet Squares) © Power feed, grounding connection, and shield system connection between the FCC system and other witing sys- ‘tems shall be accomplished through a transition assembly identified for this use » 324.40(D) «. © Carpet squares are required to cover floar-mounted Type FCC cable, cable connectors, and insulating ends. They can- not be larger than 36 in. (914 mm) square. Release-type adhesives must be used when adhering carpet squares to the floor 9» 324.41 « @ Al receptacles, receptacle housings, and self-contained devices used with the FCC system shall be identified for this use and shall be connected to the Type FCC cable as well as the metal shields. Connection from any grounding conductor of the Type FCC cable to the shield system must be made at each receptacle »»324.42(A)<. © AllFCC system components must be securely anchored to the floor (or wall) using an adhesive or mechanical system identified for this use. Floors must be prepared to ensure attachment of the FCC system to the fioor until the carpet squares are placed > 324.30 Pedestal ™ Hold-Down Tape ‘Metal Top Shield Type FOC ‘Cable Receptacle Type FCC cable can be installed on hard, sound, smooth, continuous surfaces made of concrete, ceramic, composition flooring, wood, or similar materials >» 324.10(C) @ A metal top shield shall be installed over all floor- mounted Type FCC cable, connectors, and insulating ends. The top shield must completely cover all cable runs, corners, connectors, and ends »»324.40(C)(1)« © Type FCC cable consists of three or more flat copper conductors placed edge-to-edge and separated by an enclos- ing insulation assembly »»324.100(A)<<. While the ‘maximum current rating for general-purpose and appliance branch circuits is 20 amperes, individual branch-circuits can have a current rating up to 30 amperes >» 324.12(6) QAI Type FCC cable, connectors, and insulating ends require a bottom shield, either metallic or nonmetallic >» 324,40(C)(2) and 324.100(8)(1) « Q FCC systems are not permitted on wall surfaces unless enclosed in surface metal raceways »»324.10(D) « “Transition ‘Assembly NOTE FCC systems cannot be used (1) ouidoors oF in wet locations; (2) where subject o corrosive vapors; (3) in any haxardous (classified) location; or (4) in residen tial, school, and hospital buildings 99324. 12«.‘Type MV is a solid dielectric insulated cable (single or © Conductor ampacity is found in 310.60, unless the cable Iticonductor) rated 2001 volts or higher »°328.2 is installed in a cable tray, in which case the ampacity shall be Unless identified for the use, Type MV cable shall not be determined in accordance with 392.13 2328.60. (1) where exposed to direct sunlight, (2) in cable trays, ‘unless specified in 392.2(B)(2), or (3) direct buried, unless in accordance with 300.50. @ type MV cables must have copper, aluminum, or copper- dad aluminum conductors and shall comply with Table 310.61 and Tables 310.63 or 310.64.Suspended (Drop) Ceilings © Raceways can be supported by independent (additional) support wires, secured at both ends. Support wires and asso ciated fittings must provide adequate support »»300.11(A) « © Boxes can be secured by attaching independent (addi- tional) support wires at both ends. Secure support must be provided by the support wires and associated fittings >» 300.11(A) and 314,23(D)(2) «. G Ceiling grid support wires cannot be used to support raceways. © Certain boxes can also be mounted to suspended ceiling framing members »>314.23(D\(1)«. oN ROS @ EMT conduit must be fastened securely within 3 ft (200 mm) of all boxes (outlet, junction, device, etc.) 358. 30(A) @ Suspended ceiling system framing members used to sup- port luminaires (lighting fixtures) must be securely fastened to ‘one another as well as to the building structure at appropriate intervals, Luminaires (lighting fixtures) must be securely fas- tened to the ceiling framing member by mechanical means (bolts, screws, or rivets, etc). Listed clips, identified for use with the type of ceiling framing member(s) and luminaire(s) lighting fixture(s), are also permitted »»410.46(C) « EMT Conduit Le Ceiling Grd +” Support Wire Gelling Grid Raceway Support Support Wire Wire (Secured at Both Ends) Junction Box No Support Wire a) (Secured at Both Ends)Maximum Bends in One Run Q The equivalent of four quarter bends (360° total) is the maximum allowed between pull points, e.g., conduit bod- ies and boxes. Because the total bends in this conduit run 's 340°, this installation falls within NEC® specifications. © The bend maximum of 360° applies to the following Faceways: IGS (326.26), IMC (342.26), RMC (344.26), FC (348.26), LFMC (350.26), RNC (352.26), HDPE (353.26), NUC (354.26), LFNC (356.26), EMT (358.26), and ENT (362.26). @ Generally, raceway installation must be complete between outlet, junction, or splicing points prior to the installation of conductors »»300.18(A) <<. @ Allbends are counted, even those located immediately adjacent to the pull box (or termination). A box offset with two 10° bends counts as 20°. NOTE Metal raceways must not be supported, terminated, of connected by welding unless specifically permitted by design or Code specifications 92300, 18(B)«.ings 7 An insulated fitting is not required if a smoothly rounded 's provided by threaded hubs (or bosses) that are an endlosure, or raceway >» 300.4(F) Exception «. Where racewa Insulated Fitting Not Required (or flared) entry for con- integral part of a cabinet, ¥s containing 4 AWG or larger ungrounded (hot) conductors enter a losure, or raceway), the conductors must be protected by a substan- fitting that provides a smoothly rounded insulating surface, unless the conductors Separated from the fitting (or raceway) by other securely attached substantial lating material »>300.4(F) << Conduit bushings constructed com, ure a fitting or raceway »>300.4(F) ing cannot replace a locknut pletely of insulating material cannot be used to << An insulating (plastic, thermoplastic, etc.) aawe piictict# \ No Conductors Bushines LocknutRaceways Supporting Raceways ) conduits (not used as Faceways) may support raceways if fastened securely in place with approved fittings 300.1108) <. © Raceways cannot be used to support other raceways, ‘ables, conductors, or nonelectric equipment unless identified for that purpose >> 300. 11(BY1) &, This conduit contains power supply conductors for HVAC unit, © Raceways containing power supply conductors for electri- cally controlled equipment can support Class 2 circuit conduc. ‘0:5 (or cables) used solely for connection to the equipment control circuits >» 300.11(B)(2) «. HVAC Init Class 2 © ConductorsConduit Thickness Internal diameters for each electrical trade size Conduit and tubing are listed in Table 4 of Chapter 9. @ Ten 10 AWG THHN conductors are permitted in %” EMT. Eleven 10 AWG THHIN conductors are permitted in 34” IMC. © Ten 10 AWG THHN conductors are permitted in 74" RMC. @ Annex ¢ (preceding the index in the back ofthe Code book) can be used to find the maximum num- ‘ber of conductors permitted in each electrical trade Size conduit or tubing, The conductors must be the Same size (total cross-sectional area including insula- tion) when using Annex C, @ Nine 10 AWG THHIN conductors are permitted in" schedule 40 Pvc. @ Seven 10 AWG THHN conductors are permitted in %4" schedule 80 PVC. @ The internal diameters of different types of conduit vary. Therefore a group of conductors that itinto one conduit may not fit into another type, ven though it isthe same electrical trade size _ Intermediate Electrical Rigid Metallic Metal Metal Tubing Conduit Conduit (ET) (MC) (RMC) Schedule 40° Rigid Rigid Nonmetallic Nonmetallic Conduit Conduit (PVC) (PVC),ponds Radluss24) © Bends must be made so that the conduit or tubing remains undamaged with its internal diameter basically undi- minished. For any field bend, the radius of the curve to the centerline of the conduit must not be less than indicated in Table 2 of Chapter 9. Raceways permitted to use the “One Shot and Full shoe Benders” column include IMC 9342.24 &, RMC »344.24«, and EMT 358.24 «. © The bending radius of certain other raceways must not be less than shown in the column titled “Other Bends.” ‘They include: FMC »)348.24«, LFMC 350.24 «, RNC »>352.24«, LFNC 356.24 «, and ENT >> 362.24 ««. Table 2 (Chapter 9) Radius of Conduit and Tubi Bends Trade Size Bending Radius | Bending Radius (in in.) (in in.) Ve 4 4 a” 4% 5 1 5h 6 1% 7% 8 1% 8% 10 2 o% 12 2% 10% 15 3 13 18 3% 15 21 4 16 24 5 24 30 6 30 36 mn aNONFLEXIBLE CONDUIT (AND TUBING) Rigid Metal Conduit Rigid metal conduit (RMC) is a raceway of circular cross section. RMC is manufactured in both ferrous (such as steel) and nonferrous (such as aluminum) metal. Other ‘special use types include silicon bronze and stainless steel »>344.2 « © RMC is the heaviest (thickest walled) classification of ‘metal conduit, @ Threadless couplings and connectors used with conduit must be made tight. Those buried in masonry (or concrete) must be the concretetight type. If installed in wet locations, they must comply with 314.15(A) »>344.42(A) «. © The minimum approved electrical trade size for RMC is Ya in. 344.20(A) @ The maximum approved electrical trade size for RMC is 6 in. »»344.20(8) @ RMC can be used under all atmospheric conditions, within all types of occupancies »>344.10(A) <<. © Contact of dissimilar metals (except for the combination of aluminum and steel) should be avoided wherever possible to lessen the potential for galvanic action »>344.14«, @ RWC usually ships in standard lengths of 10 ft (3 m), including the coupling. Normally one coupling is furnished with each length »344.130« © Coupled with listed fittings, RMC provides electrical conti- nuity and, therefore, can serve as an equipment grounding conductor »»344,2 and 344.60, Coupling Threadless \\ % Threadless Set Screw \, Set Screw. Coupling 9 \ coe 90° Elbow ee @ ‘Threadless ‘Threadless Compression. Compression Coupling ‘Connector NOTE RMC, elbows, couplings, and fittings cant be installed in cane rete, in direct contact with the earth, or in areas subject to severe comosive influences where corrsion proteiion is provided and where judged suitable for the condition 9344. 10(B)4,Intermediate Metal Conduit () The minimum approved electrical trade size for IMC is /2 in, )»342,.20(A) «. © The maximum approved electrical trade size for IMC is 4 in. 9» 342.20(B) « . @ The definition for intermediate metal conduit (IMC) and RMC is essentially the same }) 342.2. However, as the name implies, IMC is lighter in weight and is constructed with thinner walls than RMC. Unlike RMC, IMC is only manufac- tured of steel that provides protective strength equivalent to thicker-walled conduits. © Coupled with listed fittings, IMC provides electrical conti- nuity; therefore, it can serve as an equipment grounding conductor >» 342.2 and 342.60. NOTE For other similarities between IMC and RMC, read Article 342.Cutting, Reaming, and Threading ©) Electrical metallic tubing must not be threaded. Factory threaded integral couplings can be used >> 358.28(B) «. @ All EMT cut ends must be reamed (or otherwise finished) to remove rough edges >) 358.28(A) «. @ All cut ends of IMC and RMC must be reamed (or other- wise finished) to remove rough edges ») 342.28 and 344,284. © Running threads cannot be used on conduit for coupling connections >» 342.42(B) and 344.42(B)«. e Threading conduit in the field requires a standard cutting die with a %-in. taper per ft (1 in 16) »» 342.28 and 344.28. No ThreadsThe maximum support interval for RMC, IMC, and (Tis 10 ft (3 m) 9» 342.30(B)(1), 344.30(B\1), and 30(A)«. In addition, each conduit (or tube) must be securely fastened within 3 ft (900 mm) of each conduit termination {outlet box, junction box, device box, cabinet, conduit y, ete.) »342,30(A), 344,30(A), and 358.30(A) « Ifstructural members are not available within 3 ft (900 im), a distance of 5 ft (1.5 m) is acceptable for IMC and _RMC )) 342.30(A) and 344.30(A)««. Unbroken lengths of EMT, ie., without coupling, can fastened within 5 ft (1.5 m) where structural members not readily permit fastening within 3 ft (00 mm) IMC, and EMT Support Requirements —<$$—$ BFEAS m) 106m) ———_____RMC and IMC With Threaded Couplings Straight runs of RMC and IMC made up with threaded couplings can be supported in accordance with Table 344.30(6)(2), provided such sup- ports prevent transmission of stresses to termination where conduit is deflected between supports »>344.30(B)(2) « © The distance between supports increases as the conduit size increases. @ The distance between supports can be increased to 20 ft (6 m) for exposed vertical risers from industrial machinery or fixed equipment, provided (1) the conduit is made up with threaded ae and provi -—wnem— tc couplings; (2) the conduit is sup- ' 12137 0) ——_o} ported and securely fastened at st ans ve the top and bottom of the riser; a ween 3 and (3) no other means of intermediate support is readily available $6 49 »344.30(8)(3) «. oa nde : Ee —___ mawm f 2 we 2" $ Va Conduit Supported at the Top 20 Ft (6m) Threaded Coupling Conduit Support at the BottomHorizontal Runs Through Framing Members © Horizontal runs of RMC, IMC, and EMT that are supported by openings through framing members (at intervals not greater than 10 ft (3 ml) and are fastened securely within 3 ft (900 mm) of ter- mination points, are permitted »> 342.30(B)(4), 344,30(B)(4), and 358,30(B) «EMT Fished in Walls ® For concealed work in finished buildings (or prefinished wall panels) where standard securing is impracti- cable, unbroken lengths (without coupling) of electrical metallic tubing can be fished »»358.30(A) Exception No. 2. @ To comply with this exception, the fished portion of tubing in the wall must not have any couplings. @ Normally, EMT must be fastened within 3 ft (900 mm) of device boxes. © Finished wall provides no access to secure tubing.EMT Used as an Equipment Grounding ® EMT can serve as an equipment grounding conductor »>250.118(4) and 358.60“. @ A raceway used as the equipment grounding conductor, as provided in 250.118 and 250.134(A), must comply with 250.4(A)(5) or 250.4(B)(4) 9 250.122(A) «. @ EMT must be supported according to 358.30 provisions.Electrical metallic tubing (EMT) is an unthreaded thin-wall raceway of circu- section designed for the physical protection and routing of conductors cables and for use as an equipment grounding conductor when appropriate lings are installed »>358.2.«. EMT is also referred to as thin wall )EMT, the thinnest walled classification of metal nontlexible raceways, pro- protection from all but severe physical damage. Read 358.10 and 12 for information on uses (permitted Dene [not permitted). NOTE minimum approved electrical trade ; The number of conductors Bam 7210. 93582014) permitted in EMT must ‘SetScrew Set Screw ‘The maximum approved electrical trade ior exceed she porenaage Coupling Connector for EMT is 4 in. > 358.20(8) ‘fillspeafed in Tible 1, JAIIEMT cut ends must be reamed (or Chapter 9 99358.224, se finished) to remove rough edges .2B(A) ««. |Couplings and connectors used with tubing must be made tight. Buried in Compression ty (or concrete), they must be the concretetight type. Installed in wet ‘Coupling. they must comply with 314.15(A) »>358.42 «. Set Screw Connector Compression ‘Connector Set Serew CouplingRigid Nonmetallic Conduit NEC* identifies five types of RNC: 4, Schedule 80 PVC is an extra-heavy-walled raceway with ‘wall thickness conforming to Schedule 80-lron Pipe Size (PS) dimensions. 2, Schedule 40 PVC is a heavy-walled raceway with a wall thickness conforming to Schedule 40-IPS dimensions. 4, Type A PVC is a thin-walled raceway with wall thickness conforming to Schedule A-1PS dimensions. Limited to underground installations, Type A PVC conduit must be laid with its entire length in concrete. +4, Type EB PVC is a thin-walled raceway with wall thickness designed to achieve a duct stiffness of 20 Ibs./in./in. ‘Type EB PVC conduit, limited to underground installa- tions, must be laid with its entire length in concrete in ‘outdoor trenches. 5, HDPE Schedule 40 Is a high-density polyethylene race- ‘way with a wall thickness conforming to Schedule 40-IPS dimensions. HDPE Schedule 40 conduit, also limited to underground installations, can be direct buried O Rigid nonmetallic conduit (RNC), commonly referred to as PVC (polyvinyl chioride), is a nonmetallic raceway of circular cross section, with or without integral couplings. All joints between lengths of conduit, and between con- duit and couplings, fitings, and boxes, must be made by an approved method »)352.48 «. @AI cut ends must be trimmed inside and out to remove rough edges ») 352.28. © Expansion fittings must be provided for RNC to compen- sale for thermal expansion and contraction where the length change is expected to be 0.25 in. (6 mm) or greater, in accor- dance with Table 352.44(A) and (B), in a straight run between securely mounted items such as boxes, cabinets, elbows, or other conduit terminations >»352.44 and 300.718). @ The minimum approved electrical trade size for RNC is Yin, 99352.20(A) « @ The maximum approved electrical trade size for RNC is 6 in, »>352.20(8) « n and contraction problems generally with or without being encased in concrete. NOTE in urdlerground RNC applications. Read 352,10.and — @_ Only listed fittings can be used with RNC 12 fora description 362.6. af uses (permitted and nos permitted) Coupling Male AF RNC. Adapter Plug Female Bel Adapter EndSecuring RNC Each conduit must be fastened securely within 3 ft (900 mm) of all termination points >» 352.30(A) «. © Table 352.30 support provisions must be followed for RNC >> 352.30(B) << @ RNC must be fastened so that movement from thermal expansion or contraction is permitted ») 352.30«. Temination ein ‘2° trough 1” -3 Ft (900 mm)—} “eects ee + 5 Ftasm) 215° tho 6RO8m 3/7 though +} 7 rat m ——___4j .Bending RNC @ RNC bends must be made so that the conduit remains undamaged and the internal diameter of the conduit is not reduced »>352.24.« © The conduit must not be damaged. @ Field bends must be made only with bending equipment identified for the purpose. The radius of the curve to the centerline of such bends must. not be less than shown in Table 2 of Chapter 9 using the column titled “Other Bends” »>352.24«. © installing PVC plugs in the ends of larger conduits (2 to 6 in.) can pre- vent conduit collapses or other deformities. scerve ese to3" PVC Plugs 8 & Factory Elbows Bends must ‘made with equipment ified forthe purpose.Securing ENT © The equivalent of four quarter bends (360° total) is the maximum between pull points, e.g., conduit bodies and boxes ?» 362.26 @ Electrical nonmetallic tubing must be secured every 3 ft (900 mm) or less 2362.30(A)«. @ Bends must be made so that the tubing is undamaged and the tubing’s internal diameter is not reduced. While bends can be made manually (without auxiliary equipment) the radius of the curve of the inner edge of each bend must not be less than shown in Table 2 of Chapter 9 and using the column titled “Other Bends” »» 362.24 @ ENT must be fastened securely within 3 ft (900 mm) of each outlet box, device box, junction box, cabinet, or other termination point >» 362.30(A) « Connector‘complete listing of ENT uses (permitted and not permitted), 10 and 12. ical nonmetallic tubing (ENT) is a pliable corrugated race~ ‘of circular cross section with integral (or associated) couplings, 95, and fittings listed for the installation of electrical con- tis composed of a material that is flame-retardant as well fesistant to moisture and chemical atmospheres »>362.2 «. cut ends must be trimmed inside and out to remove rough 5 9362.28. The minimum approved electrical trade size for ENT is ¥/ in. 162.2018) « he maximum approved electrical trade size for ENT is 2 in. .20(8) |A pliable raceway can be bent by hand with reasonable force, without other assistance 9 362.2 « Outside diameters are such that standard rigid PVC conduit plings and connectors can be used on ENT of PVC construction. installation instructions outline the procedure to follow when ing PVC conduit fittings that are cemented in place. Specific ent requirements and application methods are provided. ‘An approved method must be used for all joints between ngths of tubing and between tubing and couplings, fittings, and boxes )) 362.48 CAUTION ENT nut not be stored or instlled where exposed to direct sun- light, unless identified as “suilight resistant” 362.1209) Snap-in Connector Male Adapter Coupling Schedule 40 PVC ‘Male Adapter NOTE ENT must comply with 300.4 protection requirementsP ENT Through Framing Members a () If the bored hole is less than 1% in. (32 mm) from the edge of the framing member, the raceway must be protected from penetration (by screws, nails, etc.) by a steel plate (or bushing). The steel plate must be at least Vie in. (1.6 mm) thick and of appropriate length and width to adequately cover the wiring »»300.4(A)(1) «. © Holes must be bored so that the edge of the hole is at least 1's in. (32 mm) from the nearest edge of the wood member »?300.4(A)(1) «. @ENT must be securely fastened in place within 3 ft (900 mm) of all termination points >»362.30(A) «. © Horizontal runs of ENT can be supported by openings through framing members at intervals not greater than 3 ft (900 mm) »»362.30(B) “«.EMT Lunninaire (Listting Fixture) Whips o ENT must be secured within 3 ft (900 mm) of all termina- tion points »»362.30(A) «. @ Securing is not required for ENT in lengths not more than 6 ft (1.8 m) from a luminaire (lighting fixture) terminal con- nection (for tap connections to luminaires [lighting fixtures]) »»362.30(A) Exception No. 1%. / No Support Required NOTE Securing is not required for ENT in lengths not exceeding 6 ft (1.8 m) from the last point of support for connections within an accessible ceiling to luminaire(s) (lighting fixture[s]) or other equipment )¥362.30(A) Exception No. 2«.Flexible Metal Conduit © The minimum electrical trade size for FMC is in., unless a 348.20(A) provision is met. © Flexible metal conduit (FMC) is a raceway of circular cross section made of helically wound, formed, and interlocked metal strips >» 348.2. FMC must be listed and can be used in both exposed and concealed locations ?» 348.6 and 348.10. @ Flexible metal conduit is often referred to as Greenfield, or simply Flex. © Fittings used with FMC must be listed »» 348.6 « @ The maximum approved electrical trade size for FMC is 4 in. »)348.20(8)« @ The equivalent of four quarter bends (360° total) is the maximum between pull points, e.g., conduit bodies and boxes >» 348.26“ © Bends must be made so that the conduit is not damaged and the conduit's internal diameter is not effectively reduced. The radius of the curve of the inner edge of any field bend must not be less than shown in Table 2 of Chapter 9 using the column titled “Other Bends" »348.24«, @ All cut ends must be trimmed (or otherwise finished) to remove 424 ight rough edges, except where fitings are used that thread into the con- cot aight ere. volutions >» 348.28 « © Angle connectors cannot be used for concealed raceway installa- tions ») 348.42FMC Support ‘Support Is not required for fished FMC >) 348.30(A) Excep- tion No. 1%. © FMC must be fastened securely in place (by an approved means) at intervals of 4/4 ft (1.4 m) or less > 348.30(A) <<. © FMC must be secured within 12 in. (300 mm) of each box, cabinet, conduit body, or other conduit termination >) 348,304) « @ Refer to Table 348.22 for the maximum number of con- ductors permitted in ¥ in, flex. © I the length of FMC from a luminaire (lighting fixture) terminal for tap connections, as permitted in 410.67(C), to luminaires (lighting fixtures) is 6 ft (1.8 m), or less, strapping is not required > 348,30(A) Exception No. 3%. NOTE Horizontal nuns of FMC can be supported by openings trough framing members (at intervals not greater han 4H (1.4 m)), if securely fastened within 12 in, (300 sn) of each termination point 9¥348,30(B) «., 0 @ FMC of % in. electrical trade size can be used (1) for enclosing the leads of motors as permitted in 430.245(8); in lengths not in excess of 6 ft (1.8 m) as part of a listed assembly, for tap connections to luminaires (lighting fixtures). ‘as permitted in 410.67(C), or for utilization equipment; (3) manufactured wiring systems as permitted in 604.6(A); (4) in hoistways, as permitted in 620.21(A)(1); or (5) as part ofa listed assembly to connect wired luminaire (lighting fixture) sections as permitted in 410.77(C) >» 348.20(A) <« oo — aiereci.am —oleret—ol | (300 mm)Installation King conductors are required for tS over 20 amperes. orlengths of 3 ft (900 mm) or less flexibility, the 12-in. (300-mm) distance can be waived (A) Exception No. 2«., ifan equipment bonding jumper is d around FMC, it must be installed cordance with 250.102 »>348.60« sted FMC can serve as a grounding sf (1) the conduit is terminated in igs listed for grounding; (2) the circuit uctors contained therein are protected ant devices rated at 20 amperes (8) the total length in any ground path is 6 ft (1.8 m) or less; and (4) conduit is not installed for flexibility 050.118(5) «. JFMC must be secured within 12 in. 00 mm) of each box, cabinet, con: ior other conduit termination “1 F4(300 mm 6FEC1B m), oF Less. No. Grounding Conductor Required CAUTION An equipment grounding conductor must be installed in FMC used 10 ‘onnect equipment where flexibility must be maintained ))348.604.‘equivalent of four quarter-bends (360° total) is the maximum wed between pull points, e.g., conduit bodies and boxes » 350.26. Liquidtight flexible metal conduit (LMC) is a raceway of circular cross having an outer liquidtight, nonmetallic, sunlight-resistant jacket ean inner flexible metal core with associated couplings, connectors, fittings and approved for the installation »»350 2 ¢& The minimum electrical trade size for LFMC is Yin. except as pro- led in 348.20(A) »»350.20(A) <<. The number of conductors allowed in in, conduit must not exceed the limit set in Table 348,22 ))350.22(8) «. LEMC and associated fittings must be listed »» 350.6 « ‘Angle connectors cannot be used for concealed raceway installations 9350.42. Q The maximum approved electrical trade size for LENAC is 4in.??350.20(6)«. @LFMC is often referred to as Sealtite (a registered trademark). NOTE Support requirements for LEMC Straight 90° Angle Straight Connector ate listed in 350,30, Connector Connector with Exterior Bonding LugGrounding Liquidtight Flexible Metal Conduit @ Listed LEMC, 34” through 114”, can be used as a ground- ing means if (1) the total length of flexible conduit in any ground return path is not more than 6 ft (1.8 m); (2) the ‘conduit is terminated in fittings listed for grounding; and (3) the circuit conductors contained therein are protected by overcurrent devices rated at 20 amperes or less for 44” and Ya" electrical trade sizes and 60 amperes or less for 94” through 11" electrical trade sizes »? 250.118(6) <<. © LFMC can serve as a grounding means as covered in 250.118. If an equipment bonding jumper is required around LFMC, it must be installed in accordance with 250.102 9» 360.60«. (CAUTION LEMC sed to connect equipment, where flexibility is required, must have an equipment grounding conductor 50.60 and 250.118(6}) An equipment bonding jumper can he installed either inside ‘outside of raceway. If installed on the racwway's extrion jumper cannot exceed 6 fe (1-8 me) length and must be “with the raceway 250. 102(E)«.Liquidtight Flexible Nonmetallic Conduit ‘The equivalent of four quarter-bends (360° total) is the maximum allowed between pull points, e.g., conduit bodies eo and boxes )) 356.26 «. Type A © Liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit (LFNC) is a race- way of circular cross section of various types, including FNMC-A; FNMC-B; and FNMC-C »>356.2« © Type LENC-A has a smooth seamless inner core surrounded by reinforcement layer(s), and bonded to a smooth seamless cover »>356.2(1) @ Type LFNC-B has a smooth inner surface having integral reinforcement within the conduit wall »»356.2(2) «. (Outside appearance is similar to LFMC), © Type LFNC-C has a corrugated internal and external surface having no integral reinforcement within the conduit wall >» 356.2(3) «. (Similar to ENT, except more flexible.) @ LFNC and associated fittings must be listed »»356.6««. @ Angle connectors cannot be used for concealed raceway installations »»356.42«. / @ The maximum approved electrical trade size for LFNC is 4 in, » 356.20(B) « @ The minimum electrical trade size for LFNC is 2 in., unless a 356.20(A) provision applies. © Straight 90° Angle Connectors ConnectorsRaye NG irface Nonmetallic Raceways surface nonmetallic raceways are used in combination for signaling and for lighting and power circuits, the different ting systems must be run in separate compartments identified stamping, imprinting, or color coding of the interior finish 9 388.70, | surface nonmetalic raceway construction must be visibly dstinguish- ble from other raceways. Surface nonmetallic raceways and their fitings st be designed so that sections can be mechanically coupled together and installed without subjecting the wires to abrasion » 388.1004 The size and number of conductors installed in any raceway must not exceed the raceway's design limitations » 388.21 and 388,22 «. Q Spices and taps are permitted within surface nonmetallic raceway having a removable cover that remains accessible once installed, The Conductors, at the point of splices and taps, must not fill the raceway to more than 75% of its area. Splices and taps in surface nonmetallic raceways without removable covers NOTE must be made only in boxes. All splices and taps must be F Unbroken lengths of surface nonmetallic raceways can pass tndnsverse nade using approved methods » 386.56 Wee pale redone eae ee ee © surface nonmetallic raceways can be installed in dry ‘on both sides of the wall, partition, oF floor 388. 10(2)44 fections 368.10(1). NEC® 388.12 sts the locations | feds eaulanenhpmunging epi, « separate equipment grourrd- where these raceways cannot be used {ng conductor must be installed within the raceway 99388, 60%ht Flexible Nonmetallic Condu a luminaire (lighting fixture) terminal connection }0.67(C) >» 356.30(2)«. isnot required for fished LFNC »>356.30(2) <<. uns of LFNC can be supported by openings framing members [at intervals not greater than 3 ft im)] if securely fastened within 12 in. (300 mm) of ination point » 356.30(3)«. is not required for LENC-B where installed in fot exceeding 6 ft (1.8 m) from the last point of for connections within an accessible ceiling to lumi- ) lighting fixturefs}) or other equipment 6.3014). FNC must be securely fastened at intervals not greater '3 ft (900 mm) »356.30(1) <« 1C must be secured within 12 in. (300 mm) of each ion to every outlet box, junction box, cabinet, or 1B 356.30(1) «. Where flexibility is necessary, LENC can be secured within (900 mm) of the termination >» 356.30(2) « is not required for LENC lengths of 6 ft (1.8 m) or ductors to luminaires (lighting fixtures) as permit- lit Installation NOTE Ian equipment grounding conductor és required for the circuits installed in LENC, it can be installed either inside or outside af the conduit. Where installed on the outside, the length of the equipment grounding conductor must not exceed 6 fi (1.8 m) sand must be routed with the raceway 9¥250.102(E) x.Surface Metal Raceways @ Surface metal raceway construction must be distinguish- able from other raceways. Surface metal raceways and their fittings must be designed so that the sections can be electri- cally and mechanically coupled together and installed without subjecting the wires to abrasion. Nonmetallic covers and accessories can be used on surface metal raceways only if identified for such use »>386.100 © Uses (permitted and not permitted) are located in 386.10 and 386.12. @ The number and size of conductors installed in any race- way must not exceed the raceway's design limitations >» 386.21 and 386.22. © 310.15(8)(2)(a) derating factors do not apply to conduc- tors installed in surface metal raceways where all of the fol- lowing conditions are met: (1) the cross-sectional area of the raceway exceeds 4 square in. (2500 mm); (2) the current- carrying conductors do not exceed 30 in number; (3) the sum of the cross-sectional areas of all contained conductors does not exceed 20% of the interior cross-sectional area of the surface metal raceway »386.22«. @ Unbroken lengths of surface metal raceway can pass transversely through dry walls, dry partitions, and dry floors, Access to the conductors must be maintained on both sides of the wall, partition, or floor »> 386.1014) « @ Where surface metal raceways are used in combination for both signaling and for lighting and power circuits, the different wiring systems must be run in separate compart- ments identified by stamping, imprinting, or color coding of the interior finish »» 386.70 @ Splices and taps are permitted within surface metal race- way having a removable cover that remains accessible after installation. At the point of splices and taps, the conductors must not fill the raceway to more than 75% of its area. Splices and taps in surface metal raceways without removable covers can be made only in boxes. Use only approved meth- ods for splices and taps »» 386.56 « © Muttioutlet assemblies are covered in Article 380, NOTE Ifa surface metal raceway enclosure provides a Arausition fiom another wiring method, it must have a means (0 connect an equipment ground- ing conductor 9386.60.