SE Cable

[buck33k]

Art. 338.10(B)(3) SE cable used to supply appliances shall not be subjected to temperatures in excess of the temperature specified for the type of insulation involved.

What are the temperature limitations we can expect when we come across se cable used in this application? (existing ranges and electric heating)

 

[George Stolz]

Re: SE Cable

I think that's something you'd have to determine yourself in the field. If you are intending to run your cable in a warm location, you'll need to estimate what that temperature will be and apply the derating in 310.15 and 310.16.

What this code is specifically saying is that you have to base the ampacity of the conductor on the degree rating of the insulation. (But bear in mind that you need to remember the temperature rating of the terminations as well.) With some looking you'll find that for NM, AC, UF, and other types of cable, despite what temperature their jackets might be marked as, they must be considered at a lower temperature rating per code. (See 334.80 for example. NM-B is marked 90 degrees, but must be considered at 60 degrees.)

 

[buck33k]

Re: SE Cable

Thanks George for your input. I saw an old installation yesterday using se cable to a heater, but I found no markings on the exposed cable so this prompted my question.
Your point about 334.80 is a good one. SE cable is excluded from the 60 degree limitation though by 338.10(B)(4)(A).