These two winners each wrote a detailed violation notice letter, which stated that three copper strands were missing.
“The 500 MCM CU-THW conductor is missing three strands according to NEC Table 8 Conductor Properties. The picture in CEE News shows 34 strands, while Table 8 shows 37 strands required for 500 MCM CU. Table 310-16 shows an ampacity of 380A for 500 MCM-THW. The missing strands would result in a 92% decrease in amperage, thereby lowering the ampacity to 342A for the conductor shown.”
Bill MacMuson, Electrical Engineer
Exxon Mobil Res. And Engr.
Paulsboro, N.J.
Hal Jenkins, Electrical Engineer
Tennessee Valley Healthcare System
Nashville, Tenn.