SE (Service Entrance) Cables

[anbm]

Is 4/0 maximum size for SE (service entrance) cables? Google and did not see any site has this cable type larger than 4/0.

The code says this cable has to be installed in conduits where subject to physical damage.... can someone give me an example of physical damage, If the cable run exposed, below structure .... is it considered physical damage?

 

[letgomywago]

No I've installed 250 ser often as a feeder. You can use other cables for services but it's not worth it usually vs pipe at large sizes. "Physical Damage" is up to the AHJ here a crawl space and attic aren't considered it but regular walls up the 8ft are.

 

[electrofelon]

.. can someone give me an example of physical damage, If the cable run exposed, below structure .... is it considered physical damage?

This will vary widely. It is my personal opinion and interpretation that to be subject to physical damage, there would have to be a likely occurrence of a specific event that would be likely to damage the cable. Most AHJ's go way overboard and if you can see it, then it is STPD, which is ridiculous.

In some areas, surface mounted exposed SE cable is everywhere, and in others is very restricted.

 

[infinity]

The code says this cable has to be installed in conduits where subject to physical damage.... can someone give me an example of physical damage, If the cable run exposed

If you came out of the bottom of the meter enclosure in a driveway or over a sidewalk where the cable could be damaged by a snowblower that could be subject to physical damage. Same would apply to over a lawn where a lawnmower could damage the cable. In a flower bed not so much.