Table 310.15(B)(16) or 310.15(B)(17) for sizing NM-B in attic

[SolarAlternativesDesign]

In 2011 NEC, running an inverter output circuit in an attic using NM-B cable in free air, is the ampacity based on Table 310.15(B)(16) (in raceway) or Table 310.15(B)(17) (single-insulated conductors in free air)? I'm not sure about the meaning of single-insulated conductors, but it sounds like the NM-B cable can't be used with Table 310.15(B)(17) because of the inner and outer insulation. Initially I just paid attention to the "free air" part. Is it OK to run some kinds of single wire circuits in an attic without a raceway?

 

[don_resqcapt19]

NM is a cable and 310.15(B)(16) applies.

TABLE 310.15(B)(16) (formerly Table 310.16) Allowable Ampacities of Insulated Conductors Rated Up to and Including 2000 Volts, 60°C Through 90°C (140°F Through 194°F), Not More Than Three Current-Carrying Conductors in Raceway, Cable, or Earth (Directly Buried), Based on Ambient
Temperature of 30°C (86°F)*

There are no single conductors that you can run in a dwelling unit for power and use the free air table.

 

[Smart $]

Read the entire title of Table 310.15(B)(16).

Not More Than Three Current-Carrying Conductors in Raceway, ______ , or Earth

:slaphead:

Darn it! Don posted while I was typing.

 

[SolarAlternativesDesign]

Ah, "cable".
Thanks.