Flourescent luminaires

[qcroanoke]

I can't find the answer to this.
Are we allowed by the NEC to install 4 ft 2 tube surface mount flourescent luminaires on 30 amp circuits?
I don't want to do this but if it is allowed by code I have nothing to stand on other than "I don't like it"
And that doesn't carry a lot of weight around here......

 

[jusme123]

read 210.23(B)

'08 code

 

[augie47]

I agree that is the NEC answer, but it has always bothered me. If the branch circuit supplies a fluorescent ballast, what difference does it make what type lampholder it has.

 

[qcroanoke]

I agree that is the NEC answer, but it has always bothered me. If the branch circuit supplies a fluorescent ballast, what difference does it make what type lampholder it has.

Could you post that section? I have left for the day and my code book is still there. ;o)
Or paraphrase what it says?

 

[augie47]

(B) 30-Ampere Branch Circuits. A 30-ampere branch circuit shall be permitted to supply fixed lighting units with heavy-duty lampholders in other than a dwelling unit(s) or
utilization equipment in any occupancy. A rating of any one cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment shall not exceed 80 percent of the branch-circuit ampere rating.

 

[qcroanoke]

(B) 30-Ampere Branch Circuits. A 30-ampere branch circuit shall be permitted to supply fixed lighting units with heavy-duty lampholders in other than a dwelling unit(s) or
utilization equipment in any occupancy. A rating of any one cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment shall not exceed 80 percent of the branch-circuit ampere rating.

So a tombstone in a flourescent fixture is not considered heavy duty and it would no be allowed?
That is my take on it anyway.......

 

[qcroanoke]

I agree that is the NEC answer, but it has always bothered me. If the branch circuit supplies a fluorescent ballast, what difference does it make what type lampholder it has.

I agree.

 

[kwired]

I have asked similar question here before regarding T5 HO luminaires, and have gotten pretty much same response.

You could have 50 amp circuit supplying HID's and be ok, but convert them to T5's and you may need to rework the branch circuits even though your end result uses less current.