Steam Pipe Above Electrical Panels

[Steve Merrick]

Our pipefitters have routed a steam line directly above a couple of NEMA-1 electrical panels. It has been pointed out that this is a potential violation of NEC 110.34(F) which states: "Pipes or ducts foreign to the electrical installation and requiring periodic maintenance or whose malfunction would endanger the operation of the electrical system shall not be located in the vicinity of the service equipment..."

I contend that the steam line located several feet above the electrical panels is not necessarily a Code violation, as the pipe does not need periodic maintenance and its failure (a steam leak), though highly unlikely, would manifest as cloud of steam vapor and not as drops of water falling onto the panels.

What say you? Do the fitters need to move the steam pipe from above the panel , or is it OK to leave it?

Thanks!
Steve

 

[augie47]

leaking steam pipes can be a problem, but regardless, any Code violation could cause you a problem down the road. It should be moved

 

[infinity]

Here's a graphic of the dedicated space requirement from the NECH:

 

[charlie b]

Is the electrical equipment rated higher than 600 volts?

 

[Steve Merrick]

re: charlie b

re: charlie b

Is the electrical equipment rated higher than 600 volts?

no - it's rated 480/277V

 

[charlie b]

Then 110.34(F) is not a player. The relevant rule is 110.26(F). That one does not say anything about the pipe needing periodic maintenance or presenting a potential hazard. It flat out forbids pipes above panels, for the space of 6 feet above the top of the panel. A pipe can be installed higher than 6 feet above the top of the panel, but you would need a drip shield.

 

[Steve Merrick]

110.26(F)(1)(a)... That clears things up for me. I knew I was missing something.

Thanks, guys!