DLO cable

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jimday

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I've specified DLO cable to tie an existing switchboard section to a new switchboard section where the switchboard bus does not line up and it would be impractical to fabricate custom bus. It is fairly standard practice to use DLO to reduce the conductor size and make installation easier since DLO is more flexible. I've allways used the cable manufacturer's spec sheet for ampacity, since DLO cable sizes are not listed in the tables in section 310 or section 400. I'm wondering if this is adequate or are calculations actually needed to satisfy the intent of section 310.15 of the code?
 
DLO (Diesel Locomotive Cable) is not listed for any purpose in the NEC. Therefore, without the approval of the AHJ, it is prohibited from being used for building wiring. It is my understanding that DLO is not listed for any type of building wiring or it would have a dual marking and the second marking would be of a type that is listed in Article 310. DLO may or may not have passed the UL vertical flame test.

By the way, WELCOME TO THE FORUM
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Most DLO conductor insulation is also rated as RHH or RHW or similar. If it is, I use the 75 degree column from the NEC table with the standard size smaller than the oddball DLO size that is planned.
 
Most of the DLO cable I've seen is UL listed as RHH/RHW 600V and/or 2000V. According to the submitted spec sheet, this is what the contractor intends to install in this application. Permit drawings with clear notes regarding the use of the DLO cable were issued and approved (not that this means the plan check authority actually checked and approved the specific use of DLO). Even so the tables do not list the specific sizes that are available. In this case 313.3kCM. Most spec sheets including this one state that the ampacity has been determined based on a single conductor in free air at 40 deg C and reference table 310.17 as well as ICEA S-70-381. Where do you think that leaves it?
 
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jimday said:
I've specified DLO cable to tie an existing switchboard section to a new switchboard section where the switchboard bus does not line up and it would be impractical to fabricate custom bus. It is fairly standard practice to use DLO to reduce the conductor size and make installation easier since DLO is more flexible. I've allways used the cable manufacturer's spec sheet for ampacity, since DLO cable sizes are not listed in the tables in section 310 or section 400. I'm wondering if this is adequate or are calculations actually needed to satisfy the intent of section 310.15 of the code?
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These guys can whip up some custom bus for you easy, ask for Dustin, they have a guy in your area.

http://www.arc-technology.com/main.htm
 
ron said:
Most DLO conductor insulation is also rated as RHH or RHW or similar. If it is, I use the 75 degree column from the NEC table with the standard size smaller than the oddball DLO size that is planned.
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I second that oppinion.
 
charlie said:
DLO (Diesel Locomotive Cable) is not listed for any purpose in the NEC. Therefore, without the approval of the AHJ, it is prohibited from being used for building wiring. It is my understanding that DLO is not listed for any type of building wiring or it would have a dual marking and the second marking would be of a type that is listed in Article 310. DLO may or may not have passed the UL vertical flame test.

By the way, WELCOME TO THE FORUM
icon4.gif
:smile:
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DLO is often marked as RHH/RHW and TC.
 
Jraef said:
Another option is Flexibar flexible busbar (Erico is the main supplier). It is 90C rated, plus it can be drilled and bolted without compression or mechanical lugs, which can be problematic with DLO.

http://www.erico.com/products/EriflexFlexibles.asp
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If bus bars are being bolted to a protective device (i.e. circuit breaker) they must still be sized based on a maximum termination temperature of 75?.
 
weressl said:
What sections of the NEC would be applicable to this? What wiring method? In what raceway?
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Exactly the questions the inspector would ask.


If I field connect two sections of mismatched switch gear the inspector is going to want some info.
 
jimday said:
Most of the DLO cable I've seen is UL listed as RHH/RHW 600V and/or 2000V.
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Don't forget the various threads recently on proper termination for the extra-fine strand cable.
 
Pierre C Belarge said:
The Erico item is interesting.
I would contact UL to see what they know of the product and then I could make a better judgement.
I myself have not seen this product prior to today.
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I first used the Erico product more than 10 years ago. I believe Allen-Bradley uses it in their motor control centers and drives.
 
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