Fire Alarm Wiring

[jusme123]

What is the determining factor that allows/prohibits speaker/strobe circuits to be in the same conduit as the smoke detector loop on an addressable system? NAC Panels are also used. Code articles would be helpful.

 

[gadfly56]

What is the determining factor that allows/prohibits speaker/strobe circuits to be in the same conduit as the smoke detector loop on an addressable system? NAC Panels are also used. Code articles would be helpful.

If the speaker/strobe circuits are power-limited you're probably going to be able to run them in the same conduit as the detector loop, local amendments to the national codes not withstanding. The other factor would be does the system manufacturer prohibit running in the same conduit? Even though it's not code per say, the manufacturer's installation instructions are part of the system's UL listing.

 

[jusme123]

If the speaker/strobe circuits are power-limited you're probably going to be able to run them in the same conduit as the detector loop, local amendments to the national codes not withstanding. The other factor would be does the system manufacturer prohibit running in the same conduit? Even though it's not code per say, the manufacturer's installation instructions are part of the system's UL listing.

what determines if they are power limited?

 

[fmtjfw]

what determines if they are power limited?

Look at the instructions that came with the panel. It will spell that out in minute detail.

 

[DHkorn]

Ask for the 'wiring compatibility guide' or similar that comes with the panel. It will go into great detail on when and how mixing is allowed. In my experience it's been pretty consistent. Either the speakers or the slc (data) loops will have to be shielded.


Usually, in my jurisdiction when conduit is required our power limited circuits are usually re-classified as non-power limited circuits because we choose to install them using chapter three conductors.

 

[nhfire77]

Usually, in my jurisdiction when conduit is required our power limited circuits are usually re-classified as non-power limited circuits because we choose to install them using chapter three conductors.

Are you actually reclassifying circuits or just choosing to employ a NPLFA wiring method on a PLFA circuit?


Most if not all FACP's do not allow the reclassification of a power limited circuit on a FACP, it would remove the UL listing, as that would be a design change.

 

[iwire]

Are you actually reclassifying circuits or just choosing to employ a NPLFA wiring method on a PLFA circuit?


Most if not all FACP's do not allow the reclassification of a power limited circuit on a FACP, it would remove the UL listing, as that would be a design change.

I agree.