Piggy back breakers

Merry Christmas
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Re: Piggy back breakers

I also fail to see why the problems caused by more than 42 OCPDs in a panel, whatever those problems may be, only occur in lighting and appliance branch circuit panels. They must not occur in power panels as there is no limit on the number of OCPDs for them. The problem also does not occur in Canada, at least not at 42 circuits, as their code permits more than 42 circuits.
Don
 
Re: Piggy back breakers

2 conductors per breaker (like the QO120) for 84 circuits with only 42 devices. Still NEC and UL compliant.

I think this is really a case of "doing things the way grandpa did" and not taking into account new technology.
 
Re: Piggy back breakers

Yes, the 42 limit is for panels that meet the NEC definition of a Lighting and Branch Circuit Panels regardless of how they are used.
 
Re: Piggy back breakers

marinesgt0411,
so because it is a power panel I am allowed to have more then 42 circuits?
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That would be true if you had a power panel, but you have a lighting and appliance branch circuit panel and must comply with the 42 circuit rule.
Don
 
Re: Piggy back breakers

Jim, Last night I went out to a job we just did to look at the next phase of the project. While I was there, I took a peek at the Cutler Hammer BR 200 amp, 40 circuit panel that we had previously installed. The buss were solid - no V notch - and would not accept the twin breakers that I have been talking about. Due to their "restrictor plates". So there is no "legal" way to add more than 40 circuits on that panel.

I guess I never really paid attention to it before. As I posted before, I have seen (small to medium) panels that had about 2/3 twin breakers. I would suppose that even after adding those twins, the panel must have still had less than 42 circuits.

Hmmm. I guess I learned something.


Again :D


Thanks,
 
I am confused. What is the physical difference between a non-CTL and a CTL breaker? I am a full-time service electrician now and I see non-CTL breakers in newer panels daily.
 
CH BR panels are not rated to accept tandem breakers.The amount of open spaces is what you have to deal with.That`s why when you have a 40/40 panel that is what is allowed.No notch no tandem in them.Need more space,a sub is the only way at that point.Sucks huh. :wink:
 
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