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Article 400 – Flexible Cords and Flexible Cables, based on the 2014 NEC®
Based on - NEC - 2014 Edition

Article 400 – Flexible Cords and Flexible Cables

Based on the 2014 NEC®

 

 “I recently saw a video Mike made explaining how he felt connected cords don't violate the "no cord through a drop ceiling".  I asked my inspector about doing this and she's willing to consider it.  I couldn't give her the exact reasons here on the job so she asked for a hard copy of how he determined his findings. Is that something you guys have available?”

 

 

Click here to watch the video clip [19:07]. Mike Holt reviews Article 400.1 and explains the general requirements, applications, and construction specifications for flexible cords and flexible cables as contained in Table 400.4 of the NEC.

 

This clip is extracted from the DVDs recorded to accompany Mike Holt’s Illustrated Guide to Changes to the NEC® 2014.   For more information on this and other Mike Holt 2014 Code products click here, or visit www.MikeHolt.com/14code.

 

 

 

 

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Comments
  • I am the site EE, site AHJ, and considered the resident expert. I have run across this issue several times, as this is a training center with ceiling mounted projectors. I have read this article to try and allow flexible cords in the ceiling, but have read the letter of the NEC to exclude this practice. If the NEC does not intend to include power cables, it should be very explicit in stating this. As it is, the NEC is open to interpretation, and causes much debate and confrontation. I have heard from electricians doing installations that it was allowed on their previous job, and my only rhetoric is that it is not allowed here, by quoting the NEC. Give me an alternative.

    Wingrider  September 8 2014, 12:45 pm EDT
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  • Great stuff but I’m not yet convinced.

    As noted at the beginning of the video, UL 817 is “Cord Sets and Power-Supply Cords”.

    The scope for UL 817 says, “1.2 These requirements also cover cord sets for use in extending a branch circuit supply to the power-supply cord of a portable appliance by means of flexible cord in accordance with the National Electrical Code.”

    “…by means of flexible cord…”

    Maybe 400 could be 62 and 817.

    But 400.7(A)(11) appears to let you use the cord to connect your flat screen or projector.

    Also as noted, this doesn’t apply to plenum rated spaces.

    Tom  September 2 2014, 10:14 am EDT
    Reply to this comment

  • Mike, Good review of 400 vs 817. * Field Installed cords/cables are NOT the same as Manufacturers Power Supply type cords/cables. * You focused on the wording, I have always focused on the intent / liabilities. *

    glene77is  August 30 2014, 9:10 pm EDT
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