ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues triplex/urd

"Triplex" or "Quadriplex" are generic terms to describe a wire assembly of 3 or 4 conductors. Underground Triplex or Quadriplex are called URD around here and all of the conductors are insulated and listed for direct burial. Overhead tri/quad plex has an uninsulated grounded conductor and is called ACSR which stands for Aluminum Cable Steel Reinforced and is not listed for direct burial. I didn't realize URD was a regional term. I believe the correct term for the insulation type which is listed for direct burial is USE.

I always thought URD insulation was similiar to USE. If so, be careful, as USE conductors cannot be installed indoors, as the insulation will emit toxic fumes.

XtheEdgeX,
The UL statement is in conflict with the CMPs published statements in the ROPs and ROCs on this issue. Also if the gutter space in a panel is not listed as a "wireway" there is no way to make the connections to the OCPDs.
Don

George Little - Although I don't think splicing is allowed in a panelboard, that is not what we're talking about here. We're talking about using a panel as a junction box and pulling a feeder through it to get to another panel. And FYI, there are lots of items on the market that are UL listed for splicing.
resqcapt19 - C'mon. You're just picking apart my reply now. Of course the panel is a wireway for the OCPD's. But not for wiring to go through the panel to get to another.
I think we just have a few here trying to defend this because they do this. I also think it's pretty lousy workmanship to pull wire through a panel like it's a junction box, and to splice wire in panels, instead of laying the job out correctly to avoid this.


[This message has been edited by XtheEdgeX (edited 03-08-2006).]

XtheEdgeX,
I am picking apart your reply because it is in conflict with the published statements of CMP 9. The code making panel clearly intends that you can use the panel wireway for external conductors. If it is a wireway for the panel conductors, it is a wireway for all condcutors up to the fill requirements in the code section.
No, I don't do this, but it is permitted by the code.
I agree that it is poor workmanship, but again, it is code complaint.
Don