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Posted By: petey_c Overhead wire type? - 04/09/14 06:54 PM
I've been asked to bid on a job that would either require me to trench (rather not) or go overhead about 70'. I've never done this before. What type of wire should I use?
Pete
Posted By: HotLine1 Re: Overhead wire type? - 04/09/14 07:51 PM
'Triplex' or 'quadplex' dependent on the load.

Both are similar/exact of what the POCOs use for drops.

Check with your local zoning dept and AHJ for any local issues that may arise before you start

Posted By: Tesla Re: Overhead wire type? - 04/09/14 10:42 PM
Stay with aluminum on O/H feeders.

Copper weighs a ton.

%%%

We take it for granted that you've installed O/H feeders before.

If not, there's some learning to be had.

1) Robust anchor points

2) Weather factors (wind, icing,...)

3) Getting up there and working safely (bucket truck?)

4) Crew size

5) Clearances (local rules dominate)

6) Building entry

7) Are you in a mandatory Underground zone?

(Prior installations can be deceptive. The AHJ can insist on underground (new) feeders based upon (recent) local zoning. Out my way, O/H feeders are prohibited. Only the Poco has O/H transmission lines.)

A mere seventy-feet of PVC would have me going underground -- not overhead -- unless the ground was brutal. I'd just rent a trencher.



Posted By: electure Re: Overhead wire type? - 04/10/14 02:49 AM

As John said,

The POCO uses this and this for their overhead drops.

The triplex has code names named after molluscs and crustaceans. The quadruplex is named after breeds of horses laugh

Posted By: HotLine1 Re: Overhead wire type? - 04/10/14 01:41 PM
Electure:
Thanks for the pics, they are worth 1000 words.

Most important is a chat with the local zoning & AHJ as Tesla also mentioned. O/H is allowed in some situations here, but unusual. Some fall in Rehab, some are 'temp' to restore site lighting, pending permanent repairs.
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