Electrical Codes: Flexible Cords and Cables

Flexible Cords and Cables

• Flexible cords and cables must conform to the description in Table 400.4.
• Use of flexible cords and cables not listed in Table 400.4 requires permission from the authority having jurisdiction.

Construction Requirements

• All types listed in Table 400.4 must have individual conductors twisted together, except for specific types listed (e.g., HPN, SP-1, SP-2, etc.).
• Individual conductors must have thermoset or thermoplastic insulation, except for equipment grounding conductors.
• Rubber-filled or varnished cambric tapes can be used as a substitute for inner braids.

Elevator Traveling Cables

• Cables must contain nonmetallic fillers to maintain concentricity.
• Cables must have steel supporting members for suspension, except in locations with excessive moisture or corrosive vapors/gases, where other materials can be used.
• Supporting members must run straight through the center of the cable assembly and not be cabled with copper strands.

Additional Components

• Elevator cables can incorporate optical fibers, telephone conductor pairs, coaxial cables, or communications cables.
• Optical fibers must be suitably covered with flame-retardant thermoplastic.
• Metallic shields must have their own protective covering.

Voltage Ratings

• Elevator cables in sizes 20 AWG through 14 AWG are rated 300 volts.
• Elevator cables in sizes 10 AWG through 2 AWG are rated 600 volts.
• 12 AWG is rated 300 volts with a 0.76 mm (30 mil) insulation thickness and 600 volts with a 1.14 mm (45 mil) insulation thickness.

Conductor Size and Insulation Thickness

• Conductor size for specific types of cables (e.g., EV, EVJ, EVE, etc.) applies to non-power-limited circuits only.
• Insulation thickness for nylon construction cables is indicated in parentheses.
• Conductors of power-limited circuits may extend beyond the stated AWG size range.

Permitted Uses

• Specific types of cables (e.g., G, G-GC, S, etc.) are permitted for use on theater stages, in garages, and elsewhere where flexible cords are permitted.
• Cords that comply with outdoor cord requirements can be designated as weather and water resistant with the suffix "W" after the Code type designation.