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Thursday, October 1, 2015
Question:
Re: CQD answer published Tuesday, September 22, 2015 - flexible cord VS power supply cord
Just because a cord is a NRTL approved part of a piece of equipment, does not mean that it does not have to comply with the rules of the NEC.
The scope of Article 400 clearly states that it covers “applications, ” of flexible cords and cables. UL's use of names and definitions (as in UL 62 and UL 817) does not set the standard for the use of the terms in the NEC.
While Section 422.16 and others do allow the use of a flexible cord as the power input method, naming that cord a “power supply cord” in order to differentiate the special testing required for that rigorous use of a flexible cord, does not negate the requirements of Article 400. The side panel of a kitchen cabinet is not a wall, and cords are not only allowed to pass through them, it is encouraged by Sections such as 422.16(B)(2) list-items (4) and (5).
Although I personally totally disagreed with not allowing short NRTL approved appliance power cords above suspended ceilings, this was the decision of the Code Making Panel in regard to Section 400.8(2) - NO cords may be there. Clear arguments for allowing short NRTL approved appliance power cords on devices such as WIFI routers and small condensate pumps above suspended ceilings were made and rejected by the panel.
Scott Cline
A
Answer:
Hey Scott thanks for your comment. That additional explanation is very helpful to our readers.