Question

How many conductors would be counted in a branch circuit raceway for the purpose of derating conductor ampacity given the following:

a. 3 bare conductors
b.3 black insulated conductors
c. 3 white insulated conductors
d. 3 red insulated conductors

Answer 1

For the purpose of derating ampacity in a branch circuit raceway, only the insulated conductors are counted. Assuming the bare conductors are used for grounding and not counted, a total of 9 conductors would be considered (3 black, 3 white, and 3 red).

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks how many conductors would be counted in a branch circuit raceway for the purposes of derating conductor ampacity. According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), any current-carrying conductors should be counted for ampacity derating. Bare conductors, if they are used for grounding, are typically not counted as current-carrying conductors. The conductors specified in the question can be summarized as follows:

• 3 bare conductors (not counted if used for grounding)
• 3 black insulated conductors (counted)
• 3 white insulated conductors (counted)
• 3 red insulated conductors (counted)

In this case, assuming the bare conductors are used for grounding, only the insulated conductors are counted for ampacity derating. Therefore, the answer is 9 conductors (3 black + 3 white + 3 red).