[RE-wrenches] Secure/support PV wire requirements?

[Kristopher Schmid]

I just have to post an example of how to do it wrong (courtesy of one of my
competitors).  Pictures attached.  This passed an inspection...

On Wed, Dec 9, 2015 at 8:06 AM, Rebekah Hren <rebekah.hren at gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi,
> Wondering if anyone has insight into Code requirements for
> securing/supporting PV wire behind the modules?
>
> I am aware that USE-2 sends you to Section 334.30 requirements for Type NM
> (12" from box, every 4.5 ').
>
> However, I think this is totally bogus, for 2 reasons.
> 1) Section 338.10(B)(4)(b) that refers the NM article is titled "Branch
> circuits or Feeders."  These are PV source and output circuits, not branch
> circuits or feeders.
>
> 2) it is nearly IMPOSSIBLE to secure the PV wire within 12" of the module
> junction box for many modules, especially in landscape wiring, without
> causing more harm than good, too tight a bending radius, stress on
> conductors.
>
> 334.40(B) maybe leaves a little wiggle room for concealed spaces in
> structures where it is impracticable to support.
>
> My big problem here is that both requirements of 334.30 are useless or
> harmful to PV systems. 12" to the box is often impossible, and 4.5" feet is
> too long to go without any support behind the array!!! I just noticed there
> was a proposal in 2017 to Codify the 334.40 requirements for PV cables and
> so I guess I only have myself to blame for not writing a better proposal at
> this point.
>
> Rebekah
> --
> Tel: 336.266.8800
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional™ 091209-85
> NC Licensed Electrical Contractor
>
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-- 
Shine On!

Kris Schmid
Legacy Solar, LLC
864 Clam Falls Trail
Frederic, WI 54837
www.legacysolar.com
715-653-4295
NABCEP Certified PV Installer
Licensed Wisconsin Master Electrician
BSEE
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