I have a run of 6/2 rf cable that I want to use to do a 30amp service to a utility building (not yet erected). I already am running a 10/3 section to another subpanel to an existing building. I know that you need a four stranded wire to prevent an overload on the ground/common, so you need a separate ground (all panels nowadays are for four stranded wire).
Here is the question: Before 1974, you COULD run standard 3 strand wire to a panel, so I am a bit skeptical about the demands in the first place.... , but suppose you ran the 6/2 and then used a standard copper grounding wire to go from ground to ground, and then put in a grounding stake at the termination point. What would be the safety issues with that?
Please don't quote the code to me. I know what it says here in NC. I also know that in other states, this practice (actually running three strands to a sub) is permissible.
What I want to know is from the perspective of SAFETY, it seems to me that an overload on the common (what you would have with 6/2 alone... without the extra ground wire), would trip the breaker on a 30 amp circuit ANYWAY, and adding a ground is just insurance. Any comments? The utility building is going to be a butler bldg (all metal) so I am not worried about insurance denying a claim. I *AM* wondering if there are inherent safety factors that I have missed.
Thanks in advance,
Tans the Chess Pigeon
Here is the question: Before 1974, you COULD run standard 3 strand wire to a panel, so I am a bit skeptical about the demands in the first place.... , but suppose you ran the 6/2 and then used a standard copper grounding wire to go from ground to ground, and then put in a grounding stake at the termination point. What would be the safety issues with that?
Please don't quote the code to me. I know what it says here in NC. I also know that in other states, this practice (actually running three strands to a sub) is permissible.
What I want to know is from the perspective of SAFETY, it seems to me that an overload on the common (what you would have with 6/2 alone... without the extra ground wire), would trip the breaker on a 30 amp circuit ANYWAY, and adding a ground is just insurance. Any comments? The utility building is going to be a butler bldg (all metal) so I am not worried about insurance denying a claim. I *AM* wondering if there are inherent safety factors that I have missed.
Thanks in advance,
Tans the Chess Pigeon