Electrical Code 2017 – Latest Updates and Changes in 2017

electrical

From what i get 2008 table 310.15{b}(6) is no longer code. I hear 310.15(b)(7) has replaced it. Trying to find out what is the smallest size aluminum wire for 100 amp sup panel 10 feet away? That is the question and that is the wire type.Have had some answers.Some say #2 allowed and others say not allowed due to 310.15(b)(7). Also if you know a web page where i could read ((b)(7) would be helpful .thank you

Best Answer

#1 Al

Because 310.15(b)(7) doesn't have anything to do with subpanel feeder. It's for wiring that is in lieu of service entrance wire, and performs that function.

This is NFPA's concession to the fact that power companies (who don't follow NEC, they follow a different code) are allowed to use smaller wire on the power drop to your house.

You are not allowed to use 310.15(b)(7) bonus 83% derate unless all the dwelling's electrical service flows through that wire (because that serves the function of a service-entrance wire). It's not allowed on subpanel runs.


Prior to 2014 NEC, 310.15(b)(7) was not stated as an 83% bonus derate. It was expressed as a separate table, listing wire sizes and allowable ampacity for each. On that table you see #2Al being allowed for 100A. Naturally, people looking for wire size just dive right into NEC and look around for a table that states it. Their eyes glaze over when they see the correct table 310.15b16, because it is a complex table to interpret and requires referring to the prose. However, they found 310.15b7 and it looked like exactly what they're after - simple, straightforward, and even said "feeder"! The prose disclaimed that, but nobody reads.

All good reasons to get rid of that table entirely...