Hedges
I See Electromagnetic Fields!
- Joined
- Mar 28, 2020
- Messages
- 20,903
"FWIW, the intent of the 2020 code (and by my read the 2023 code, but equally poorly written) is to requrire the PV wiring *within the occupied structure* to be in metal conduit or raceways..."
I could agree with putting it in conduit to reduce chance of arc starting a fire in the house.
But I think if a DC PV wires does arc in the conduit, it can burn through it and just keep arcing.
I use a buzz box for arc welding and have difficulty not burning right through thin tubing.
Most residential PV is lower current than most arc welding, but higher voltage and similar wattage. Maybe that means easier to sustain the arc (especially with DC), and same power delivered to metal "workpiece"
We'll probably get decent arc fault at reasonable cost integrated in most future equipment. All the newer US model GT PV inverters have it. Expect it for UL listed AIO, but there will be a market beside residential. SCC probably slow to follow, smaller market not on houses or not inspected. Midnight has it, don't know if any others.
I agree.
I could agree with putting it in conduit to reduce chance of arc starting a fire in the house.
But I think if a DC PV wires does arc in the conduit, it can burn through it and just keep arcing.
I use a buzz box for arc welding and have difficulty not burning right through thin tubing.
Most residential PV is lower current than most arc welding, but higher voltage and similar wattage. Maybe that means easier to sustain the arc (especially with DC), and same power delivered to metal "workpiece"
We'll probably get decent arc fault at reasonable cost integrated in most future equipment. All the newer US model GT PV inverters have it. Expect it for UL listed AIO, but there will be a market beside residential. SCC probably slow to follow, smaller market not on houses or not inspected. Midnight has it, don't know if any others.