How and where to mount Class 2 power supply per NFPA 70 - enclosure needed?

[randy_m]

I'm looking at a residential cove lighting project using some 24V LED strip lights and the following Class 2 power supply:

DiodeDrive 24 VDC LED Switching Power Supply - Enclosed Power Supply - Optional Power Cord - 60W / 100W

This DiodeDrive 24 VDC LED Switching Power Supply has been designed for constant voltage operation. Reliable and widely applicable, it powers LED technology without energy waste or risk of circuit overload. It is fully enclosed in a waterproof case.

www.superbrightleds.com

Looking at NFPA 70 article 450 and 725, it seems like there are no enclosure or ventilation requirements given that the power supply will be a Class 2 power supply and clearly marked as such. Is this true, and can the power supply be mounted onto any surface without any concerns? I am aware that the input side of the power supply will need to be wired to line voltage inside a junction box.

If my understanding of the NEC is correct, why does the following Class 2 power supply have an enclosure box included?

DiodeDrive Dimmable LED Driver - Enclosed Power Supply - 12 VDC - 25W / 60W

This enclosed dimmable LED driver/power supply is class-2 rated and has a maximum load of 25 or 60 watts. The 12-volt constant voltage driver has 2 entry points to screw terminals for easy wire access and is encased in a durable, vented steel enclosure. The enclosure is equipped with wiring...

www.superbrightleds.com

This is my first LED low voltage project - thanks in advance for any help!

 

[hbiss]

... why does the following Class 2 power supply have an enclosure box included?

To make you pay more money.

-Hal

 

[LarryFine]

The drivers I usually use look like this:

 

[purduephotog]

This is the only product I've found. http://www.illumenate.com/dlaccessories2.htm#boxes

 

[hbiss]

Looking at NFPA 70 article 450 and 725, it seems like there are no enclosure or ventilation requirements given that the power supply will be a Class 2 power supply and clearly marked as such. Is this true, and can the power supply be mounted onto any surface without any concerns? I am aware that the input side of the power supply will need to be wired to line voltage inside a junction box.

Yes.

-Hal

 

[LarryFine]

Here's the brand I usually install: http://gmlighting.net/

 

[randy_m]

@hbiss @LarryFine Thank you both for the feedback!

I keep hearing about low voltage (12/24V) LED power supply transformers needing to be in an enclosure box, needing to be accessible for maintenance, not being in a concealed location, needing proper ventilation etc. For example, see the comments section in this video:

Am I correct in my understanding that those rules are applicable to Class 1 systems only, and many folks are simply misinformed about this NOT applying to Class 2?

 

[hbiss]

First off, that video is one that YouTube needs to take down as dangerous.

Am I correct in my understanding that those rules are applicable to Class 1 systems only, and many folks are simply misinformed about this NOT applying to Class 2?

Class 1 is more restrictive in that both input and output must comply with a Chapter 3 wiring method. So yes, generally an enclosure is needed.

For all drivers and power supplies common sense would dictate proper ventilation and access for service or replacement. I think the problem with Class 2 is that any idiot is encouraged to install it (like by that video) and most idiots have no common sense.

-Hal

 

[LarryFine]

Wow.

 

[purduephotog]

Here's the brand I usually install: http://gmlighting.net/

What box specifically ? I have preferred Meanwell power supplies as a) I've tested them at work for ripple and b) see previous

There's a specific company driver, however, that I want to incorporate- it's 0.1% to 100% dim capable with NO flicker. At least all the traces I've seen and were made for a contract bid. I don't have one in hand though.

But what I need, first of all, is the stupid, bloody code compliant box.

 

[hbiss]

What box specifically ? I have preferred Meanwell power supplies as a) I've tested them at work for ripple and b) see previous

There's a specific company driver, however, that I want to incorporate- it's 0.1% to 100% dim capable with NO flicker. At least all the traces I've seen and were made for a contract bid. I don't have one in hand though.

But what I need, first of all, is the stupid, bloody code compliant box.

What are you talking about? I thought we were answering @randy_m 's question. How about starting your own thread?

-Hal

 

[purduephotog]

What are you talking about? I thought we were answering @randy_m 's question. How about starting your own thread?

-Hal

I thought you were providing a box that would meet the requirements/specifications of the item he was looking for. From the catalog, with their coverage, there's lots of items, but I thought perhaps you had one in particular in mind- hence my specific question on which box/item.

I was also relating about dimmer control, but I guess that was off topic.

I already do have an open thread on this particular topic so was very excited to see another one that had a new product listed.

 

[hbiss]

I thought you were providing a box that would meet the requirements/specifications of the item he was looking for.

Don't know why this is a problem. If you want to use a box to house your driver/power supply, Hoffman and others make any number that could be used.

-Hal