fluorescents....jack chain....and mc cable

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emahler

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does anyone know where i might find the code section that discusses the need for using stranded mc cable when dropping down jack chain from the ceiling to a hanging fluorescent....i seem to remember iwire quoted it once, but a search doesn't turn anything up..

thanks
 
dcspector said:
410.28(E) but the intent is feeding through chain links.
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I don't see that section limited to that application.

In my opinion it also applies the conductors dropping down from the structure to chain hung strip lights.

FWIW in the 2008 it has moved to 410.56(E).
 
Although I think Greg is correct that the intent is for cord or fixture wires threading through the links, I agree with Bob that the actual wording would apply to any wiring method for chain hung fixtures.

Roger
 
iwire said:
I don't see that section limited to that application.

In my opinion it also applies the conductors dropping down from the structure to chain hung strip lights.

FWIW in the 2008 it has moved to 410.56(E).
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I realize the section number has changed but the intent has not. This is for let's say typical chain hung chandeliers, pendants, etc.with the manuf.cord and one would not try to feed solid conductors/cable thru the links...solid MC zip tied to a jack chain will not damage the cable and or conductors.
 
dcspector said:
This is for let's say typical chain hung chandeliers, pendants, etc.with the manuf.cord and one would not try to feed solid conductors/cable thru the links...solid MC zip tied to a jack chain will not damage the cable and or conductors.
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But it really does not say that does it...
 
stickboy1375 said:
But it really does not say that does it...
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I recall one of the members here has a tagline to the affect of "The words "common" and "sense" do not appear next to each other in the NEC." :D

I've never considered the code issue of this because I think there are at least a zillion chain hung fluorescents fed with MC cable. But now I know better. Seems like a silly rule at any rate.
 
dcspector said:
I This is for let's say typical chain hung chandeliers, pendants, etc.with the manuf.cord and one would not try to feed solid conductors/cable thru the links..
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That would be one use of the section.

solid MC zip tied to a jack chain will not damage the cable and or conductors.
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I agree, but a chain hung fixture that could swing and flex the solid conductors could break the conductors.

Keep in mind that the section is not limited to the chains but also 'movable or flexible parts'
 
stickboy1375 said:
But it really does not say that does it...
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Stick I agree with that but let's look at the (hate to say it) common sense or rationale on the installation. Solid MC running down along side a jack chain....so what! Now feeding it thru a fixture (luminaire) chain is a bit different, if even possible......Let's focus on the intent...damage to the cable and or conductors.
 
iwire said:
I agree, but a chain hung fixture that could swing and flex the solid conductors could break the conductors.
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Could it really though? You have to move a #12 solid an awful lot to get it to break.
 
dcspector said:
Stick I agree with that but let's look at the (hate to say it) common sense or rationale on the installation. Solid MC running down along side a jack chain....so what! Now feeding it thru a fixture (luminaire) chain is a bit different, if even possible......Let's focus on the intent...damage to the cable and or conductors.
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I agree 100%, but the way its written, I just dont see an exception.
 
dcspector said:
Let's focus on the intent...
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None of us know the intent, I have an entirely different idea of the intent then you and Roger do. :smile:

Not a problem, it's the NEC and we all have different ideas about it. :smile:
 
Here's what I'm reading: (The bold italics are mine)

Stranded conductors shall be used for wiring on luminaire ( fixture ) chains and on other moveable or flexible parts.

I am taking this to mean a hook on a piece of pipe or conduit as well as a chain... so it seems to be other things besides threading it through a chain to me.

And one other thing... check your jack chain's weight limit... the stuff often isn't rated for much.
 
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