SJO Vs. AC Cable

[gappvembe]

I was wondering if there are any code concerns using one over the other.
We are installing, actually replacing a drop ceiling and the fixtures with about 20 3ft by 4ft lights in an area of our plant.
My boss is wondering which is best to use.
I say SJ O for the inherent water protection, the flexibility, and quickness of installation (lets parts, ease of cutting).
He was wondering if its any safer since it's shielded by a ground and why the office up front was done with AC.
Thanks

 

[SmithBuilt]

Isn't SJ a heavy use cord? If so it is not allowed to be installed permanently. Are the fixtures cord and plug or hard wired?

 

[zbang]

The J stands for "junior", which usually translates to a thinner jacket. Rated for hard usage, not extra-hard. IMHO, it's not suitable for much at all .

 

[gappvembe]

a little bit further reading...
400.8 uses not permitted
(5) Where concealed by walls, floors or ceilings or located above suspended or dropped ceilings.

Oh well

 

[jdsmith]

J in the name means the insulation is rated at 300v, not 600v. This means the NEC won't allow it anywhere since all conductors in Class 1 circuits need to be rated for 600v (I think.)

At the bare minimum J might mean a thinner outer jacket, but I have some very nice Carol brand Froghide extension cords that are SJOOW or something like that which have a very thick outer jacket.

 

[izak]

J stands for Junior, and flexible cords are not permitted for permanent installations... except for equipment that will be moved often as part of its intended usage