Why does the Small Conductors rule mention 14AWG copper-clad aluminum?

[bdcubbage]

240.4(D) says the minimum OCPD size for 14AWG Copper-Clad Aluminum conductors is 10A, despite the fact that 310.3(A) and 310.16-310.21 seem to bar 14AWG aluminum conductors from use.

I'm trying to figure out if there's some exception that I'm missing which allows 14AWG CCA conductors, but I can't seem to find one.

What is the reasoning for singling out CCA conductors here when the rest of the code seems to treat pure-aluminum and CCA conductors equally? Is there some exception that I'm missing?

I'm a noob, so please go easy on me.

 

[infinity]

240.4(D) says the minimum OCPD size for 14AWG Copper-Clad Aluminum conductors is 10A, despite the fact that 310.3(A) and 310.16-310.21 seem to bar 14AWG aluminum conductors from use.

Copper clad aluminum is not the same as aluminum. 10 amp circuits can be used for lighting .

 

[don_resqcapt19]

What is the reasoning for singling out CCA conductors here when the rest of the code seems to treat pure-aluminum and CCA conductors equally?

Because the smallest aluminum conductor permitted is 12 AWG, but the smallest CCA permitted is 14 AWG.
The 2023 code has added 10 amp branch circuits. 210.18 and 210.23(A). The 2026 code will add 16 AWG copper for 10 amp circuits.