Unprotected aluminum URD

[colwellk]

I'd like some quick help...

I recently came across an installation where aluminum, three-conductor URD supplying a main circuit breaker panel (120/240v, 1Ph) was routed through a basement unprotected (not in conduit). While I know this cable is listed for direct burial, this just doesn't 'feel' or 'look' right the way it is openly installed in the structure. Before I recommend that it be corrected, I'd like to get some feedback.

Is this a violation of the NEC? If so, what section?

Thanks in advance for the assistance.

 

[augie47]

If it's actually URD with no other rating, it is not an approved NEC conductor for installation anywhere...... it is a utility conductor.
If it's URD/USE it is not approved for interior installations 338.12(B).
If its any other approved single conductor, it should be installed per 300.3

 

[Cow]

Sounds like you need OCPD at the point of entry as well as some SER cable for across the basement.

 

[A/A Fuel GTX]

If it's URD/USE it is not approved for interior installations 338.12(B).

Augie.....They do make an version of URD that has a suffix of 8000 that is flame retardant and legal to be installed indoors. It would be good for this installation if it were installed in couduit.

 

[102 Inspector]

Is this a feeder or service entrance? How far is it from the outside to the point of the main disconnect? I would be concerned that it does not meet the intent of having the main disconnect immediately upon entering the structure. Needs to be in conduit regardless.

 

[kwired]

Augie.....They do make an version of URD that has a suffix of 8000 that is flame retardant and legal to be installed indoors. It would be good for this installation if it were installed in couduit.

It likely also has additional markings such as USE/RHW, which is main thing that qualifies it to be acceptable as an NEC conductor.

USE only means it is a USE cable - which is limited to outdoor use. If it also has RHW or other similar markings that makes it acceptable for general use, but must be either buried or in a raceway as it is just a conductor type and not a wiring method.

 

[augie47]

Augie.....They do make an version of URD that has a suffix of 8000 that is flame retardant and legal to be installed indoors. It would be good for this installation if it were installed in couduit.

My outlook may be incorrect, but I would be leery of accepting it due to the wording of 310.11, 310.13

 

[kwired]

My outlook may be incorrect, but I would be leery of accepting it due to the wording of 310.11, 310.13

Really depends on what markings are on the conductors. All the stuff I have seen that has AA-8000 marked on it also has USE/RHW markings.

 

[augie47]

Really depends on what markings are on the conductors. All the stuff I have seen that has AA-8000 marked on it also has USE/RHW markings.

agree, but URD & 8000 alone would not work here.... RHW would be the salvation