Saw some some of the new 12-2-2 nmb today. One of the white wires has a red stripe or tracer on it, can this be used as agrounded conductor or neutral whichever term you prefer.

I don't see anything ragarding a red stripe but the point is not to use the stripe to identify it as a neutral but to distinguish it from the other neutral within the cable. I don't see a problem with it. The reason for this cable is to provide two circuits.

Although this new product seems to be, technically, a violation of 200.6(A), I believe it will eventually be recognized by the NEC. I doubt an inspector would shoot down an installation utilizing this cable.

Now, as far as the term "neutral"...

[This message has been edited by Redsy (edited 12-21-2002).]

Seems a bit odd because the assembly would require an 80% adjustment factor, right? [99 NEC] Table 310-15(b)(2)(a). "...More than Three Current-Carrying Conductors in a...Cable".

Bjarney,
You are correct, but NM cable uses 90°C conductors and an #12 with an 80% derating is still over 20 amps. With 2 of these cables bundled together we would have 8 current carrying conductors and 70% derating. The ampacity would be 21 amps.
Don

Redsy,200.6(a)is what I thought of,but now Bjarney says I have to derate it,Wonder how many ahjs will allow it without derating?

Thanks guys,I pulled several runs of it today in an old farmhouse renovation. I feel abit better about it now.