Oversizing Cable for Voltage Drop then Splicing at Termination

[123]

Hey Folks,

I have to connect the power feed from a new lighting contactor to an existing load. The load is far and to prevent excessive voltage drop it is fed with #4 cable. The largest cable accepted in the lighting contactor's terminal block is #10.

In this case I don't have much of a choice because the #4 cable is existing and I have to splice to it. However, if I was doing the whole thing as a new installation I would have done the same thing (#10 from the contactor spliced with a larger conductor to minimize voltage drop). The OCPD is sized for the #10.

Is there anywhere in the NEC that say it is OK to do this? I feel that it is OK; the (smaller) cable is protected, and other than that there is nothing else different from the norm. Would like some confirmation.

Thanks!

 

[winnie]

Nothing wrong with splicing between smaller and larger conductors, as long as the OCPD properly protects the smallest conductors. Be careful that your splicing method can deal with the different conductor sizes, and also watch out that your EGC is properly upsized to match your ungrounded conductors.

-Jon

 

[resistance]

I believe this thread should be closed, based on site rules.

 

[charlie]

This site is designed for:

• Contractors
• Electricians
• Engineers
• Inspectors
• Instructors
• Other electrically related individuals

* This NEC? Forum is for those in the electrical and related industries. Questions of a "How-To" nature by persons not involved in the electrical industry will be removed without notice.

If I have erred, please send me a PM and I will issue a public apology. Your profile states that you are a handyman and, as such, are not an electrical professional.

 

[charlie]

Sorry, Ralph has a bachelor's in electrical engineering and does belong here. I misunderstood by looking at his profile.