Is additional disconnect required?

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meyergp

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I have a main power panel on a piece of equipment. It has the main disconnect for the machine.
I have to add an extra enclosure with motor controls. It will be joined to the side of the main enclosure with short pieces of 2" conduit and it will get power from the main panel.
Am I required to have a disconnect on the second enclosure also??

[ July 13, 2004, 01:26 PM: Message edited by: meyergp ]
 
Re: Is additional disconnect required?

Per the NEC, you don't need an additional disconnect. The usual rule is "within sight", so I am assuming your panel will be next to the main panel. You wouldn't even need a sign, or label. I guess it is assumed that electricians can figure out which disconnect power comes from, and they are supposed to physically check for voltage before servicing also.

However, you may want another disconnect for maintance if the equipment can still run while your panel is shut off.

One other caveat: What is the fuse or CB rating protecting the conductors feeding your panel? If you use smaller wire than the above rating, it is a tap. And that brings in distance limits for your wires.
 
Re: Is additional disconnect required?

Refer to NFPA79, chapter 5 for more details regarding disconnecting means for machinery. Our latest copy is the 2002 edition.

Bob
 
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