GEC sizing for detached sub panel

[Doc13067]

This is a dumb question for me and I apologize in advance.

A 30 amp sub panel (10/3 feeders) in a detached garage, what size wire is needed for the rods? Does it fall under 250.66 “#2 or smaller” for #8 cu or #6 cl? Or does it fall under 250.122 for #10cu because the main GEC is at the main building?

 

[tom baker]

The size is based on the ungrounded conductor size. In your case you could use the minimum of 8 awg, but that requires physical protection. Use a 6 awg

 

[Doc13067]

Thanks Tom. Right, like an armored #8 that costs more than the #6 I have on a 1000 ft reel. Ok that’s what I’ll do. I appreciate it.