arsee:
To argue a point with you -
210-12(a) (1999 or 2002)Does Not say:
"the entire circuit".
In the article I just mentioned from UL, each of the 6 categories of AFCI devices protect different aspects of the branch circuit (this definition includes the AFCI circuit breaker).
Given the 210-12(a) definition: "AFCI is a device intended to provide protection ....by functioning to de-energize the circuit when an arc fault is detected."
Every one of the 6 UL AFCI categories meets that requirement....there is not one single device (within the UL categories, including the AFCI circuit breaker) that can detect and protect against all arc fault conditions for the entire circuit.
To meet the 'entire circuit' definition two or more UL category devices must be combined
(e.g. the AFCI circuit breaker + AFCI receptacle [cat AWBZ]) to obtain this ideal:'protection from arc faults...on the entire circuit'.
The AFCI circuit breaker protects against about 1/6 of the arc fault conditions - how can you say this device [standing alone] satisfies the AFCI requirements?
I have no problem with a jurisdiction requiring the combination of 2 or more AFCI devices to meet the 210-12 code section; I do have a problem with a jurisdiction saying they accept the AFCI circuit breaker alone as meeting the requirements. (Isn't that like telling a cruise liner they only need boats and life jackets for 1/6 passengers?)
Boy do I hear the hooting and hollering now about the added cost!! ...but at least with this added cost you are getting some protection.
