12-2 NM through a hole

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sparknboom

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On site yesterday, my boss told me that new code called for only 4 #12 romex (NM) could go through a hole.

Does anyone know the full NEC regulations for this?
Does the size of the hole matter?
Is it only for vertical runs (or) between floors?

Thanks
 
Boring and notching limitations are set by the building code.

Grouping of cables is a design consideration that may result in a code requirements or two. Section 334.80 is the most relavent section, however there are also other building codes and electrical code issues that must be considered when drilling, notching, and passing electrical cables and conduits through framing members.

Section 602.8 of the IRC would be an example of a code to be aware of as an electrical contractor.
 
334.80 only applies if the hole is to be fire-blocked or draft-stopped. Normally the foam insulation required where cables pass through wood framing is just for insulation and not fire-blocking or draft-stopping.
 
This is legal here and passed both building and electrical inspections.

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Tim
 
Read 334.80 in the 08 code and it adds wording that states "without maintaining spacing between cables". I don't think it's going to be a problem running several cables through a single hole as long as the opening is large enough that there is some spacing maintained between the cables and they are not crammed together with no air space between them.
 
There is no code rule limiting the number of NM cables thru a bored hole in a 2x4. Typically I will hear a limit of three, but I feel this is based on:
1.Max hole size to maintain 1 1/4" from face of stud
2.NM cable used before 1984 was 60 Deg C,
Its more 1 than 2.
The inspector can't cite you a code rule for this as there isn't one.
 
bighills said:
Manalapan NJ inspector failed me last month for more than 2 wires going thru a hole on all outside walls
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Could this possibly be a local amendment?:confused:

It never ceases to amaze me how few electrcians simply ask for a code reference, and resign themselves to a world of "Well, it was just simpler to 'correct' it than to argue."
 
Ever wire a house, then the homeowner shows up on Saturday with a caulking gun and fills up all the holes where you ran your cables thru, so cockroaches won't run thru them? I have. As far as I was concerned, I didn't violate 334.80, the homeowner did so I didn't make too much of a fuss about it.
 
480sparky said:
Could this possibly be a local amendment?:confused:

It never ceases to amaze me how few electrcians simply ask for a code reference, and resign themselves to a world of "Well, it was just simpler to 'correct' it than to argue."
Click to expand...

It amazes me at how many electricians ask me what it is I want to see.

I tell them its not what I want, but what the code requires.

Chris
 
raider1 said:
It amazes me at how many electricians ask me what it is I want to see.

I tell them its not what I want, but what the code requires.

Chris
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I wonder if I would consider that person an 'electrician' at that point. If they don't know what you need to 'see', they don't know the Code.

I don't, however, see a problem with an electrician discussing options that are available if there's an obstable or difficulty concerning an installation.
 
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