lack of meter/breaker stack availability option

[gptaylor1976]

We have a big problem, same that everyone in the industry has, in obtaining meter/breaker stacks, specifically 4 and 6 gang units. We ordered 2 6 gang units last April and still don't have them, and just recently ordered 10 4 gang units and were told 60 weeks. We have come up with a solution, however not the nicest looking solution, but one non the less. Our solution is what is in the pic, sort of, have to make some adjustments to the pipes we have run already and can't move them (frozen ground here in NH). Has anyone installed a set like this recently that can post a picture of it? We are in the talks with the local power company, but they have some "issues" with the trough. They are worried that people will break their tag and tap into free power. I get the AHJ stuff, but if they would break into the trough, what would stop them from breaking into the meter? with the remote read meters, power companies rarely look at the socket at all in our area now.

 

[infinity]

They make locking devices for wireways so I don't know what they're worried about.

 

[rc/retired]

I've installed several of what your photo shows. No problem.
That said, depending on your code cycle, you may have to install emergency disconnects.

Ron

 

[infinity]

That said, depending on your code cycle, you may have to install emergency disconnects.

Ron

Would the disconnects shown in the photo satisfy the emergency disconnect requirement?

 

[rc/retired]

Would the disconnects shown in the photo satisfy the emergency disconnect requirement?

Yes, but I don't think they would satisfy the meter disconnect code. 230.82.
I could be wrong. Won't be the 1st time.

Ron

 

[gptaylor1976]

Yes, but I don't think they would satisfy the meter disconnect code. 230.82.
I could be wrong. Won't be the 1st time.

Ron

I told the utility rep that the trough would have the screws with holes and the locking tab. He said they are afraid that someone could still open it and tap on to the feeds. How is that any different than opening the socket? Yes, those disconnects would and do satisfy the code for disco exting means.

 

[gptaylor1976]

I told the utility rep that the trough would have the screws with holes and the locking tab. He said they are afraid that someone could still open it and tap on to the feeds. How is that any different than opening the socket? Yes, those disconnects would and do satisfy the code for disco exting means.

I should have said a breaker enclosure satisfies the code.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

Yes, but I don't think they would satisfy the meter disconnect code. 230.82.
I could be wrong. Won't be the 1st time.

Ron

The code does not require a meter disconnect. It simply permits a meter disconnect where such is required by the utility. Around here, the only time a meter disconnect is required by our utility is for self contained 480 volt meters.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

I told the utility rep that the trough would have the screws with holes and the locking tab. He said they are afraid that someone could still open it and tap on to the feeds. How is that any different than opening the socket? Yes, those disconnects would and do satisfy the code for disco exting means.

Utilities have their own rules. Ours won't permit a pedestal type meter for underground services because they think it is too easy to steal power, even though the unmetered conductors are behind a barrier that they can seal. Have seen utilities that prohibit conduit bodies on the line side of the meter for the same reasons.

 

[rc/retired]

The code does not require a meter disconnect. It simply permits a meter disconnect where such is required by the utility. Around here, the only time a meter disconnect is required by our utility is for self contained 480 volt meters.

Dang, you are correct. Thank you. IIRC my POCO did require a meter disconnect.

Ron

 

[jaggedben]

... some "issues" with the trough. They are worried that people will break their tag and tap into free power... but if they would break into the trough, what would stop them from breaking into the meter [bank]? ...
View attachment 2563795

Exactly. They need to get over themselves. People who aren't going to be stopped by tags aren't going to be stopped by anything. I mean, people take angle grinders to rigid risers to steal power.

 

[VirutalElectrician]

They are worried that people will break their tag and tap into free power.

PoCo here used to just use the paper clip thin wire and a serial numbered plastic seal. Then about 10 years ago they came around and added heavy locks as well.

Can cut through either one just as easily. Lots of easier ways to steal power if one is so inclined. But I guess it helped the pointed headed folk running the place sleep better.

 

[VirutalElectrician]

We have a big problem, same that everyone in the industry has, in obtaining meter/breaker stacks, specifically 4 and 6 gang units. We ordered 2 6 gang units last April and still don't have them, and just recently ordered 10 4 gang units and were told 60 weeks.

I wouldn't believe any number given out these days. I think suppliers are just making up numbers so you go away.

I ordered some 320a meter sockets back in September. I was told Oct 13th delivery date. Oct 13 came and went, then was told Nov 13. Then Dec 13. Their computer just bumps the time out another 4 weeks every time a delivery date is missed. Yup, you guessed it, their computer says Feb 13th now.

I have a Square D QO 40 space outdoor panel sitting here that was botched so bad I want to send it back. But I need the replacement in 2 weeks. On Jan 3rd I was told 2-3 weeks before they would have replacement stock. 3 weeks passed and you guessed correctly again, another "2-3" weeks. Glad I didn't return the botched one.

 

[Todd0x1]

Instead of the trough with the little locking tab I wonder if the utility would go for a cabinet with the distribution blocks in it that could be sealed with one or more barrel locks. Sort of like a CT can but with distribution blocks instead of CTs.