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.

This quiz covers the regulations and guidelines for flexible cords and cables, including those listed in Table 400.4. It tests knowledge on the uses and restrictions of different types of flexible cords and cables.