Well, let's see. The interior of a raceway run outside is considered a wet location. Therefore you cannot run NM through it because NM is not listed for a wet location.
The interior of a 3R enclosure installed outside is not considered a wet location. Breakers are not listed for wet locations.
So here's my problem. If a raceway which is sealed up pretty damn good is considered a wet location, how is it that a 3R enclosure is considered a dry location with all it's slots and openings, none of which are even gasketed. It's like Swiss cheese in a driving rain.
Either go to a NEMA 4 or, better yet put it inside. But the NEC, not being a design guide doesn't care if the breakers have to be replaced as long as their failure doesn't burn the house down.
Then again what happens if corrosion prevents them from tripping?
-Hal
Uh..... why are you asking ME to justify what the rules are? I follow them, not make them.
Perhaps you should ask those who MAKE the rules to explain them.
If you have an issue with the rules, then DO SOMETHING about it.
