Pad Mounted Transformer in Parking Garage

[kingpb]

Can an FR3 pad mounted transformer, be installed in a parking garage? This is the ground level, all sides are open to air, ceiling is about 15ft high. Transformer is owner furnished/owned. Code references that allow/disallow would be helpful, as I can't find anything definitive. It does not seem to me that it would be considered an enclosed space.

 

[ron]

We install FR3 transformers inside buildings, so I don't see any reason an open garage would be a problem.

 

[kingpb]

Ron, are you installing them in NY? They are pretty strict; so gives me hope.

 

[electrofelon]

Have you looked thru 459.23 thru 450.27? I don't know offhand which category fr3 falls into, or whether this installation would be considered indoors or outdoors.....

 

[ron]

Ron, are you installing them in NY? They are pretty strict; so gives me hope.

Recently installed one on the 6th Fl in a highrise building in NYC

 

[hillbilly1]

Here’s what Eaton has published, if it’s any help.

https://www.eaton.com/content/dam/eaton/products/medium-voltage-power-distribution-control-systems/cooper-power-series-transformers/eaton-nec-requirement-guidelines-for-installation-of-listed-less-flammable-liquid-filled-transformers-td900001en.pdf

 

[kingpb]

Have you looked thru 459.23 thru 450.27? I don't know offhand which category fr3 falls into, or whether this installation would be considered indoors or outdoors.....

That's one of the things trying to figure out, indoor or outdoor.

 

[kingpb]

Here’s what Eaton has published, if it’s any help.

https://www.eaton.com/content/dam/eaton/products/medium-voltage-power-distribution-control-systems/cooper-power-series-transformers/eaton-nec-requirement-guidelines-for-installation-of-listed-less-flammable-liquid-filled-transformers-td900001en.pdf

Very good info, thx

 

[JRM555]

We manufacture competing products to FR3. FR3 can be used in indoor transformers. "Less flammable" ester liquids can be used in indoor application with simplified or no containment/firewall as well as no deluge system over it. The determination of the fire protection is based on the local, state or federal guidelines.

 

[ggunn]

Just don't install it in a stairwell.

 

[JRM555]

I have not seen any restriction for installation in stairwell. For my knowledge, is there a reason why it is not recommended?

 

[ggunn]

I have not seen any restriction for installation in stairwell. For my knowledge, is there a reason why it is not recommended?

It may concern the means of egress from a building. We once installed one in a stairwell of a parking garage to transform the output of a 480/277V PV inverter to a 208V service and the AHJ made us move it. It was a pain.