I don't believe that there are any requirements in the code that specify overcurrent or short circuit protection for reactors. What the code does say is that you have to follow the instructions that come with UL listed equipment. If the reactors are UL listed and the instructions say you have to have a certain level of overcurrent protection and or short circuit protection you would be violating that provision found in article 110 someplace.
Generally speaking overcurrent and short circuit protection is to protect circuits not devices or equipment. There are a bunch of exceptions to this such as for Transformers and motors but all of those exceptions are called out specifically.
On the other hand, I don't have a copy of the code handy to look it up so I could be wrong.
