Quick Hits

Episode 2: Disconnects, Controllers & Multi-Motor Circuits (675.8 – 675.10)

SLIDE 1 (HOOK / COVER) ⚡ NEC Quick Hit: Irrigation Disconnects & Multi-Motor Taps (Part 2) ⚡ 

Can a single 30-amp circuit supply dozens of small drive motors along a center pivot span? Where must the main disconnect be placed? Let's break down Sections 675.8 through 675.10! 👇

SLIDE 2 (MAIN DISCONNECT & CONTROLLER RULES)

Readily Accessible Cutoffs:

• Location: The main disconnect must be at the power supply connection point OR within sight (within 50 ft) of the machine, readily accessible, and lockable open per 110.25.

• Sizing: Rated for the equivalent continuous current and horsepower of the calculated locked-rotor load (molded case switches and circuit breakers do not require marked HP ratings).

SLIDE 3 (SEVERAL MOTORS ON ONE 30A BRANCH CIRCUIT)

Grouped Tower Drives:

• Multi-Motor Rule: Motors up to 2 HP each (max 6A FLA each) are permitted on a single 30-amp circuit protected up to 1000V.

• Tap Requirements: Individual motor taps cannot be smaller than 14 AWG copper or exceed 7.5 m (25 ft) in length. Individual branch-circuit short-circuit protection for each motor is not required!

SLIDE 4 (WRAP-UP)

💡 Apprentice Pro-Tip: Each motor on a grouped 30A irrigation circuit still requires individual motor overload protection per 430.32, even though individual branch-circuit short-circuit fuses or breakers are waived!

💬 Save this post for your next farm machine wiring job! 🔗 

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