encased overhead service

[sevlander]

We have new 400A 208V 3 phase service scheduled to be installed on the existing exterior brick wall of a commercial remodel job. The GC has decided to add a fascia wall over top of the existing brickwall with Dryvit materials and a new thin stone veneer on the exterior. He wants to hide the new service conduit within the new false wall with the only the service head protruding at the top. The other end will terminate directly into a CT cabinet in the basement via a 90 degree sweep through the original brick wall.

My question is: Is this legal as the service conduit is outside of the brick wall in a void between the new wall or would it require to be encased in 2" of concrete per 230.6 as it is now considered inside the building without over current protection?

my boss believes it is fine as it is just a facade and and the old exterior brick wall is the actual exterior wall of the building. I argue that the service conductors are unprotected by a over current device and susceptible to damage from nails or drilling. What is the actual intent of 230.6?

Thanks

 

[mwm1752]

I would agree with your boss -- the conductors never enter the building as there is separation from the interior as per 230.6 --

 

[sevlander]

I would agree with your boss -- the conductors never enter the building as there is separation from the interior as per 230.6 --

Thanks,But when is it actually considered inside the building? What if the GC decides to make that wall 3' deep to enclose air conditioning line sets or some other larger item needing to be hidden and the conduit is also in this chase? Is there a point where it is more than just facade? And the purpose of encasing is so it doesn't get easily cut? ...or is there another purpose for that code requirement?

 

[augie47]

I would certainly run the idea by your AHJ and your POCO.
Locally, our POCOs will not allow concealed services ahead of the meter.

 

[sevlander]

I would certainly run the idea by your AHJ and your POCO.
Locally, our POCOs will not allow concealed services ahead of the meter.

That is my concern...that either the AHJ or Utility will not allow it. Just trying to interpret and understand the NEC requirements first. Thanks