Do pool trench drain grates need to be bonded?

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I think that maybe someone had the good intention of putting the metal grate on a nonconductive trough, but sounds to me like there should be a clarification from the NEC. if the grate can't move around, then wouldn't it be fixed in place ? and its metal, and its with 5 '. I can see where it can be construed as equipment. I think that you should write a note to your architect outlining the quagmire and explain to him that if he doesn't respec a fibreglass grate, he needs to contact the NEC and get a clarification (let us know the outcome !!)
 
I don't think it needs to be bonded. 680.25(B)7, talks of " fixed metal parts. This is in the code workbook '08.
 
M.D.
Is it otherwise secured???
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Good question. The whole rule depends on the undefined terms of fixed in place and otherwise secured. In my opinion if the average adult can walk over and pick them up, they are neither and the rule does not require bonding. You could make a case that if they weigh over 100 pounds, then they are "fixed or otherwise secured". This would be based on the rule in 110.76(D). Of course that rule does not apply to Article 680, but it is a starting point for a definition.
Don
 
WTO said:
The stainless steel grate is what the architects want. No fiberglass grate. The steel grate sits in a completely fiberglass trough so it has no contact with any other metal.

I guess the argument can be made that the grate is not a wiring method and is not a fixed object as per 680.26,(B), (5), so it would not need to be bonded.
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A steel window frame on a wooden structure is isolated too I think the only hook to hang your hat is to be found in this definition

Equipment, Fixed. Equipment that is fastened or otherwise secured at a specific location

1. is it equipment ?

2. is it secured at a specific location?

I'm not sure it is equipment .
I also don't think the fence or the window in Mike"s illustration are equipment as defined in art 100 either.
I would still bond them,.. I think they are all, including the grate fastened or otherwise secured at a specific location under normal operating conditions.
 
No, the Stainless Steel grate sits in the fiberglass drain trough. It is not attached to the trough. I would assume that at sometime, the grate would be removed for cleaning, so a bonding conductor would need to be a longe enough, 18" or more, to facilitate the grate removal, enough so to allow the grate to be set down next to the trough.
 
I had to think about this one. I would say that if the grate slips into the fiberglass trough then no bonding. If it comes into contact with the concrete at all then I would say bond it.

You could try the "isolated parts not over 4" in any dimension, if part does no penetrate into pool structrue more than 1"".
 
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