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Thursday, July 13, 2017
Question:
Re: CQD answer published Friday, July 7, 2017 -
In regards to the Code Question of the Day for July 6, 2017, I think the question concerns whether the use of LFMC is permitted where it is coming out of the floor and not conduit fill. It appears the original requirement was to install rigid conduit but since the floor stub out is on an angle, it will not work. If this is installed in an area where subject to physical damage then the use of LFMC is not permitted. (NEC 350.12 ) I would consider anything coming out of the floor subject to physical damage unless behind some other permanent barrier or pipe bollards. Rather than chiseling out around the rigid conduit stub out to correct it, an option may be to concrete encase the LFMC up to the underside of the panel or provide a steel enclosure (panel skirt) or other type of guard. You thoughts? Also thanks for continuing to provide important interpretations of the Code.
Regards, Mike Cahill, PE
A
Answer:
Hey Mike thanks for your comment and the compliment. You have a good point that the AHJ will need to determine if the LFMC is subject to physical damage and that often involves some judgment. There are many installations made with schedule 40 PVC conduit extending up out of a slab or the ground that were apparently judged to be not subject to physical damage as stated in 352.10(C), which is a similar requirement. Along a roadway, parking lot or aisle for powered industrial vehicles would usually be considered a location where those types of wiring methods would not be allowed. Or as you state some other means of physical protection can be provided.