Overhead Wiring

[jap]

I came across an overhead Feeder to an outbuilding where they had taken #2 overhead Triplex (2 insulated 1 messenger) and wrapped a single #2 Xhhw single conductor aluminum to it and used it for the Neutral. Evidently they couldnt find any quad.
I've seen a single grounding conductor added to Urd for Underground , but not adding a single conductor to an overhead Feed.

 

[physis]

Why do you suppose the messenger wasn't used as the neutral? Sounds sort a goofy. I guess it's hot?

 

[augie47]

as long as it's sunlight resistant, I see no probelm.
Southwire's black XHHW is sunlight resistant.

 

[augie47]

Why do you suppose the messenger wasn't used as the neutral? Sounds sort a goofy. I guess it's hot?

in the '08 Code you are required to have a EGC in most cases. The bare may have ben used for that.

 

[jap]

Why do you suppose the messenger wasn't used as the neutral? Sounds sort a goofy. I guess it's hot?

No, The messenger was used as the Ground.

 

[physis]

OK, I wasn't thinking about the need for an EGC.

 

[LarryFine]

Why do you suppose the messenger wasn't used as the neutral?

Maybe 'cause it's a feeder.