Article 338 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023 edition covers requirements for the installation and use of service-entrance cables. This article sets out guidelines for the installation of service-entrance cables in various environments, such as underground and overhead, as well as specific requirements for the type of cable that can be used for service-entrance applications.
NEC 2023 is the latest edition of the National Electrical Code, which is developed and published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The NEC is a widely used set of standards that is adopted by many jurisdictions in the United States and other countries as the basis for their electrical safety regulations.
Article 338 covers the installation of service-entrance cables, which are used to connect a building or other structure to the electric utility’s distribution system. These cables carry electrical power from the utility to the main service panel or disconnect switch in the building. Service-entrance cables are typically larger and more rugged than other types of electrical cables, and they are designed to withstand the harsh environmental conditions that they may be exposed to.
The first section of Article 338 covers general requirements for service-entrance cables. This section sets out guidelines for the maximum length of service-entrance cables, as well as requirements for the minimum size of the cable that must be used for different service ratings. The section also includes requirements for the type of insulation that must be used for service-entrance cables, as well as requirements for the type of conduit or raceway that must be used to protect the cable.
The next section of Article 338 covers requirements for the installation of service-entrance cables in underground locations. This section applies to service-entrance cables that are installed in trenches, conduits, or other types of underground installations. The section sets out specific requirements for the type of conduit or raceway that must be used to protect the cable, as well as requirements for the type of insulation that must be used.
The following section covers requirements for the installation of service-entrance cables in overhead locations. This section applies to service-entrance cables that are installed on utility poles or other overhead structures. The section sets out specific requirements for the type of support that must be used to support the cable, as well as requirements for the type of insulation that must be used.
The final section of Article 338 covers specific types of service-entrance cables, such as Type SE and Type USE cables. These types of cables have unique installation requirements that must be followed to ensure their safe use. For example, Type SE cables must be supported and protected by an approved means, and the maximum allowable length for runs of Type SE cable is limited.
One of the key goals of Article 338 is to ensure that service-entrance cables are installed in a way that minimizes the risk of fire or other hazards. To achieve this goal, the article sets out requirements for the size and type of cable that must be used for different service ratings. The article also sets out guidelines for the maximum length of service-entrance cables, as well as the minimum size of the cable that must be used.
Another key goal of Article 338 is to ensure that service-entrance cables are protected from damage. This is particularly important in underground installations where the cable may be exposed to moisture or other environmental hazards. The article sets out specific requirements for the type of conduit or raceway that must be used to protect service-entrance cables in underground installations.
The requirements for service-entrance cables in overhead locations are also important, as these cables may be exposed to wind, rain, and other environmental hazards. The article sets out specific requirements for the type of support that must be used to support service-entrance cables in overhead installations, as well as requirements for the type of insulation that must be used.
The final section of Article 338 covers specific types of service-entrance cables, such as Type SE and Type USE cables. These types of cables have unique installation requirements that must be followed to ensure their safe use. For example, Type SE cables must be supported and protected by an approved means, and the maximum allowable length for runs of Type SE cable is limited.
It’s important to note that Article 338 is just one part of the NEC, and there are many other articles that cover different aspects of electrical safety. However, Article 338 is an important part of the NEC as it provides specific guidelines for the installation and use of service-entrance cables in various environments.
In conclusion, Article 338 of NEC 2023 covers requirements for the installation and use of service-entrance cables. The article sets out guidelines for the installation of service-entrance cables in various environments, such as underground and overhead, as well as specific requirements for the type of cable that can be used for service-entrance applications. The goal of Article 338 is to ensure that service-entrance cables are installed in a way that minimizes the risk of fire or other hazards, and that they are protected from damage. Following the guidelines set out in Article 338 can help ensure that electrical installations are safe and reliable.