Article 200 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) covers requirements for the use of conductors, cables, and raceways in electrical installations. The NEC sets the standard for safe and reliable electrical installations in the United States, and compliance with Article 200 is essential to ensure that electrical installations are safe, reliable, and meet the highest standards of electrical safety.
Section 200.2 Scope
This section outlines the scope of Article 200, which covers the use of conductors, cables, and raceways in electrical installations. The NEC specifies the minimum size of conductors and cables, the maximum length of cable runs, and the type of raceways that must be used in different situations. Compliance with these requirements is essential to ensure that electrical installations are safe and reliable.
Section 200.4 Protection Against Physical Damage
This section covers protection against physical damage to conductors, cables, and raceways. The NEC requires that conductors, cables, and raceways be protected against damage from external sources, such as mechanical impact, abrasion, or corrosion. The type of protection required depends on the specific situation, but it can include conduit, flexible metal conduit, armored cable, or other approved methods.
Section 200.6 Protection Against Corrosion and Deterioration
This section covers protection against corrosion and deterioration of conductors, cables, and raceways. The NEC requires that conductors, cables, and raceways be protected against corrosion and deterioration in corrosive or damp environments. This can include the use of special types of raceways or the use of coatings or other protective measures.
Section 200.7 Use of Conductors
This section covers the use of conductors in electrical installations. The NEC specifies the minimum size of conductors based on the expected electrical load and the type of circuit. Conductors must also be protected against overcurrent by properly sized fuses or circuit breakers.
Section 200.8 Use of Cables
This section covers the use of cables in electrical installations. The NEC specifies the maximum length of cable runs based on the expected electrical load and the type of cable. Cables must also be protected against overcurrent by properly sized fuses or circuit breakers.
Section 200.10 Use of Raceways and Cable Trays
This section covers the use of raceways and cable trays in electrical installations. The NEC specifies the type of raceway or cable tray that must be used based on the expected electrical load and the type of environment. Raceways and cable trays must also be protected against damage from external sources.
Section 200.12 Uses Permitted
This section outlines the permitted uses of conductors, cables, and raceways in electrical installations. The NEC specifies the type of conductor, cable, or raceway that must be used for specific applications, such as wiring for lighting, power, or communication systems.
In conclusion, Article 200 of the National Electrical Code provides critical requirements for the use of conductors, cables, and raceways in electrical installations. Compliance with Article 200 is essential to ensure that electrical installations are safe, reliable, and meet the highest standards of electrical safety. Electrical estimators must have a thorough understanding of Article 200 to ensure compliance with the NEC and provide accurate estimates for electrical installations. Compliance with the NEC is essential to ensure that electrical installations are safe, reliable, and meet the highest standards of electrical safety.