romex cable above 3 stories

[lectro]

this is a question whether anyone has had a project where they installed type nm cable in a building above 3 stories. we are looking at value engineering a 6 story extended-stay motel. we are interpreting that the change in art. 334.12 in the 2002 nec will allow this. also give me any pros and cons on using nm cable vs. mc cable other than the cost differance. thankyou in advance for anyone who responds.

 

[ryan_618]

Re: romex cable above 3 stories

I don't think you will be able to build a 6 story building out of non-combustible construction. This building will probably be type I or II construction. NM cable, therefore, will probably not be permitted.

 

[ryan_618]

Re: romex cable above 3 stories

Having looked it up in the IBC, chapter 5, there is no way you can build a 6 story building non-combustible.

Type NM cable is not an option here.

 

[eprice]

Re: romex cable above 3 stories

Ryan is correct. The only way (under the IBC) that this building could be built over 5 stories would be with type I construction. NM is ruled out.

Edit: NM would be ruled out under the UBC (and I assume CBC) for the same reason

[ September 17, 2004, 06:48 PM: Message edited by: eprice ]

 

[iwire]

Re: romex cable above 3 stories

It depends on where lectro works, it could be allowed if he works in MA.

Mass. Electric Code.

334.10(3). Add an exception as follows:

Exception: Type NM, Type NMC, and Type NMS cables shall be permitted to be used in one and two-family dwellings, multi-family dwellings and other structures of Type I and II construction, provided that where such dwellings or structures exceed three floors above grade Type NM, NMC and Type NMS cables shall not be permitted to leave the floor or dwelling unit from which the cables originated.