Article 675 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023 edition covers the installation and use of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines. The article provides specific requirements for the safe installation and use of these machines, helping to minimize the risk of electric shock hazards and other hazards associated with their operation. Proper installation and maintenance of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines are essential for their effective and safe operation.
The first section of Article 675 covers general requirements for electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines. This section sets out guidelines for the maximum voltage and current that can be used with the machines, as well as requirements for the type of grounding that must be provided for the machines. The section also includes requirements for the maximum leakage current that can be allowed for the machines.
The next section of Article 675 covers requirements for the installation of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines. This section sets out specific requirements for the installation of these machines in various environments, such as indoor or outdoor installations. The section also includes requirements for the type of conduit or raceway that must be used to protect the wiring of the machines.
The following section covers requirements for the use of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines. This section sets out specific requirements for the type of machine that can be used, as well as requirements for the maximum number of machines that can be connected to the system. The section also includes requirements for the type of cabling that must be used to connect machines to the system.
The final section of Article 675 covers specific requirements for the interconnection of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines with utility power systems. This section sets out requirements for the type of equipment that must be used to ensure the safe and reliable interconnection of the two systems. The section also includes requirements for the maximum amount of power that can be supplied to the system and requirements for the type of protection that must be provided for the machines.
One of the key goals of Article 675 is to ensure that electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines are installed and used in a way that minimizes the risk of electric shock hazards. To achieve this goal, the article sets out guidelines for the maximum voltage and current that can be used with the machines, as well as guidelines for the type of grounding that must be provided for these machines. The article also sets out specific requirements for the type of conduit or raceway that must be used to protect the wiring of the machines.
Another key goal of Article 675 is to ensure that electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines are protected from physical damage and environmental hazards. This is particularly important in outdoor environments where the machines may be exposed to weather, wind, and other hazards. The article sets out specific requirements for the type of conduit or raceway that must be used to protect the wiring of the machines, as well as requirements for the type of cabling that must be used to connect machines to the system.
The requirements for the installation and use of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines are also important, as these machines may involve more complex installation procedures than other types of electrical installations. For example, the installation of irrigation machines may require special equipment and expertise to ensure that the installation is done correctly.
Proper installation and maintenance of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines are critical for their effective and safe operation. Regular testing and maintenance of the machines can ensure that all components are working correctly, and any repairs or replacements are properly documented. Following the guidelines set out in Article 675 can help ensure that electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines are installed, used, and maintained safely and effectively.
It is also essential to note that compliance with Article 675 is not only a legal requirement, but it is also a moral obligation. Irrigation machines are commonly used in agricultural settings, where the proper functioning of these machines can have a significant impact on crop yields and food production. In addition to this, irrigation machines may also be used in residential and commercial settings, where the proper functioning of these machines can impact the aesthetic appearance of lawns and gardens.
Non-compliance with Article 675 can result in serious consequences, including electric shock hazards, property damage, and personal injury. Electrical equipment installed in or near irrigation machines can pose a significant risk of electric shock hazards, which can cause injury or even death. In addition to this, poorly installed or maintained irrigation machines can also cause property damage, such as flooding or fires, which can result in significant financial losses.
In conclusion, Article 675 of NEC 2023 sets out guidelines for the installation and use of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines. Compliance with this article is essential to ensure that these machines are installed and used safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of electric shock hazards and other hazards associated with their operation. Proper installation and maintenance of electrically driven or controlled irrigation machines are critical for their effective and safe operation. Following the guidelines set out in Article 675 can help ensure that these machines are installed, used, and maintained in a way that minimizes the risk of property damage and personal injury.