Neutral Required?

[bphgravity]

I understand that not all outlets are required to have a grounded (neutral) conductor; like for a switch outlet.

However, is a grounded (neutral) conductor required at all panelboards regardless if it is being used or not?

For example, lets say I need a loadcenter to serve only line-to-line loads, and all spaces will be used. Can I feed this panelboard with my two ungrounded conductors, and one grounding conductor?

Code references, please?

 

[charlie]

Re: Neutral Required?

You are not required to run any more conductors than you need past the service equipment. In other words, your grounding conductor (a metallic raceway will do), and the ungrounded conductors will do the job. I have always run the grounded conductor to allow for future expansion. Additionally, I would buy a panelboard with at least a couple of empty spaces.

 

[iwire]

Re: Neutral Required?

Other than for services if you do not need the neutral you do not have to run it.

Just like a branch circuit if you do not need the neutral you leave it behind.

No code references for it that I know of, if you had to run it there would be a code article.

I run into this with 480 volt panels for HVAC units, three hots and a ground only.

Bob

 

[dereckbc]

Re: Neutral Required?

It is not required to run the neutral past the service. However as Charlie stated it would be a good idea to make on availible at the panel if needed in the future.

 

[iwire]

Re: Neutral Required?

I am betting Bryan was just curious, I doubt he would install a panel with no neutral, without some good reasons.

I have never done that either just ran into them while doing service calls.

IMO it is good that the code to leaves it to the designer / installer, the CMPs are not the ones paying for the work.

[ July 01, 2003, 04:35 PM: Message edited by: iwire ]