TC (tray cable) as a residential feeder cable.

[rickg]

Hi all, it has been a while since my last visit, way too much going on.
I have a small project that is requiring the replacement of a 200 amp SER feeder. Being that this dwelling is very close to the salt water & the cable will be mostly inaccessible after installation I would like to install copper SER cable. In this area copper SER cable is unavailable, supplier is suggesting TC, and he claims that some inspectors will accept it. This cable will be laying on a cement slab under a wooden floor system, way too many obstacles to run PVC conduit. I am looking at 2/0 or 3/0 copper TC. Code states that it can be supported from a messenger, would wood framing or a concrete floor be considered a messenger? I am looking for some feedback before contacting the AHJ. Any ideas or comments?
Thanks,
Rick

 

[bphgravity]

Re: TC (tray cable) as a residential feeder cable.

It is my belief that it is not the intent of the code is to consider type TC as a substitute wiring method for type NM or type SE. Check with your AHJ anyway. Type TC does have a flame-retardant jacket and if installed in a workmanlike manner, does make for a similar installation as NM or SE would.

 

[rickg]

Re: TC (tray cable) as a residential feeder cable.

Thanks bphgravity,
I had been pondering this over the weekend, as this job is in the town next to the town where I am the ahj, I had been wondering how I would call this if it were in my jurisdiction. The ahj could have said "NO" or, "I'll trust your judgement", or "what do you think?". I do not want to put him in an awkward position .
So this afternoon I spent some time on the phone & located a supplier that had a 660 foot chunk of 2/0 -3 SER CU laying around, (I only need 125 feet), about 75 miles from here,(in Iwire's neck of the woods).
Thanks
Rick