300.14

[gcushman]

In NEC 300.14, what is the meaning or definition of "free conductor"? Does this mean no terminations before the 6" length? If so, does mean that the EGC can not wrap around a ground screw before the 6" length?

 

[Dennis Alwon]

In NEC 300.14, what is the meaning or definition of "free conductor"? Does this mean no terminations before the 6" length? If so, does mean that the EGC can not wrap around a ground screw before the 6" length?

This has been argued but IMO as long as you have the appropriate length of wire after any connection then you would be compliant

 

[infinity]

This has been argued but IMO as long as you have the appropriate length of wire after any connection then you would be compliant

I agree and unless he's changed his mind apparently so does Mike Holt.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

In my opinion, the required length only applies before you make the splice or termination, and it can be any length after you do that.

It doesn't really make any difference any more since the 2023 code added the following:

The 150 mm (6 in.) free conductor shall be permitted to be spliced or unspliced.