Grouping disconnects

[inspector 102]

For the purposes of 230.71, when the reference to grouping disconnects in any one location, what is the acceptable distance between disconnects? Can the disconnects switches be 35 feet apart as long as the are visible from one location at the building? What is the opinion out there?

 

[rick5280]

Re: Grouping disconnects

Look at it this way. Take two people. Stand them right next to each other. Are they a group? Now seperate them by 35'. Are they still grouped?

I would say that right next is grouped, not right next is not grouped.

Rick Miell

 

[steve66]

Re: Grouping disconnects

Even if the NEC allowed them to be 35' apart (and I have my doubts about that), the serving utility may also have a say in the matter.

I had never heard this before, and no reference was given, but someone from our local power company said disconnects have to be grouped so someone could shut them all off without having to take a step.

Steve

 

[iwire]

Re: Grouping disconnects

The only time I have seen any distance between disconnects has been in the case of multiple services to one building.

If only one service with multiple disconnects they have always been as tight as passable, 6 breakers in one panel or 2 to 6 disconnects side by side.

JMO, Bob

 

[dcsva@aol.com]

Re: Grouping disconnects

Section 230-72(a) - Exception
As I read it, only one of the two-to-six disconnects is permitted to be located remote from the other disconnecting means. (fire protection).
Grouped means together, not 35 ft apart

[ September 09, 2003, 08:18 PM: Message edited by: dcsva@aol.com ]

 

[donnie]

Re: Grouping disconnects

Speaking of grouping of service disconnects, what if you have a 400amp service, with one meter outside, with 2-200amp panels, one panel with a main inside back to back with the meter, and one panel with main located 35 ft. from the other panel.

Any Opinions.

 

[rick5280]

Re: Grouping disconnects

Same answer, unless there is a 400amp disconnect ahead of the two panels.

Rick Miell

 

[bennie]

Re: Grouping disconnects

The two to six disconnects are for continuity of service. The disconnects are primarily for maintaining the service in the ON status.

A single disconnect does not necessarily provide continuity of service when one item of utilization equipment fails. Also you can't group one disconnect

Grouping is to limit the exposure for the un fused service conductors.

Service entrance and metering equipment (CT cans), with an auxiliary gutter for wire space, is limited to 30 feet. This suggests that the two to six disconnects can be within the 30 foot space.

This also suggests that a 10'x 10' room can have disconnects on three walls.