grounded conductor installed in concrete

[drbond24]

I have been asked a question and I can't find code to quote in my answer.

A customer wants to know if XHHW can be poured directly into concrete. My boss says that insulation has to be rated for direct burial to be installed in concrete which would mean USE, but I can't find a code reference.

Even then, the customer is arguing that since the conductor is a ground the insulation doesn't matter anyway. Would there be an exception in this case since we are talking about a ground?

I think the best answer is just use a bare conductor, but their question still remains.

Thanks.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I have been asked a question and I can't find code to quote in my answer.

A customer wants to know if XHHW can be poured directly into concrete. My boss says that insulation has to be rated for direct burial to be installed in concrete which would mean USE, but I can't find a code reference.

Even then, the customer is arguing that since the conductor is a ground the insulation doesn't matter anyway. Would there be an exception in this case since we are talking about a ground?

I think the best answer is just use a bare conductor, but their question still remains.

Thanks.

I don't see where concrete would matter as long as the conductor is copper. We install bare copper for UFERS all the time. I suspect XHHW is not listed for use in concrete but why would it matter if the conductor is copper.

 

[tom baker]

Your post was for the grounded conductor. The grounded conductor is now the neutral. Are you referring the GEC?
If so, there are no restrictions on it in concrete. Typically its bare so it can be a 250.52(A)(3) installation.

 

[charlie]

. . . A customer wants to know if XHHW can be poured directly into concrete. . .

I seem to remember that concrete will react with cross linked poly and cause it to deteriorate. :-?

 

[e57]

I'm failing to see the point of insulation on a ground period.... And why is the customer involved? They trying to get rid of wire?

 

[drbond24]

I seem to remember that concrete will react with cross linked poly and cause it to deteriorate. :-?

I'm pretty sure that is correct, but as others have said it probably doesn't matter since this is a ground. Is there a code violation?

I'm failing to see the point of insulation on a ground period.... And why is the customer involved? They trying to get rid of wire?

Customers ask questions, I look for answers. It doesn't usually make any more sense than that. :smile:

Typically its bare so it can be a 250.52(A)(3) installation.

And if they persist in using an insulated conductor?

I agree that this doesn't entirely make sense, but I only have limited information and I'm just trying to answer the question I was asked.

I appreciate everyone's input.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I don't believe it is a code violation unless you have aluminum wire. If the jacket should break down then the isn't an issue with the copper.