This course introduces students to the current National Electrical Code (NEC) as established by the National Fire Protection Association. The NEC outlines regulations and standards for electrical components and systems, including wiring methods, materials, conductors, overcurrent protective devices, branch circuits and feeders, grounding, transformers, services, special locations, and calculations. The NEC aims to protect individuals and property from hazards associated with electricity, such as electrical shock and fire.
Because the NEC is revised every 3 years, memorization is impractical. Students will develop skills to research and verify information required for tasks such as determining wire size, conduit fill, ampacity ratings, insulation types, grounding and bonding, and performing load and service calculations in accordance with the evolving NEC.
Prerequisites
None.
Part 1. An overview
Layout and structure of the NEC
1. Provide an overview of the history and revision process of the National Electrical Code (NEC).
2. Explain the organizational structure and format in which the National Electrical Code (NEC) is presented.
3. Demonstrate proficiency in locating information within the National Electrical Code (NEC) by utilizing the research tools introduced in this course.
General chapters
1. Review the initial chapters of the National Electrical Code (NEC) to acquire foundational knowledge.
2. Examine the definitions and general requirements outlined in Article 100 of the National Electrical Code (NEC).
3. Determine the wire sizing and protection requirements as specified by the National Electrical Code (NEC).
4. Analyze the wiring methods and materials commonly employed in electrical system design.
5. Identify the general equipment connections and control requirements established by the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Special chapters
1. Define and analyze special occupations and conditions, including hazardous locations.
2. Identify and evaluate the qualifications required for special equipment.
3. Compare special conditions related to electrical power, such as backup power, energy storage, and power production.
4. Describe key aspects of communication systems.
5. Utilize informative annexes and tables in the National Electrical Code (NEC) for efficient reference.
Part 2. General chapters
Application of advanced NEC topics
1. Determine the ratings for branch circuits.
2. Examine amperage ratings and requirements applicable to dwelling units.
3. Determine the power consumption of individual electrical components.
4. Provide a definition of electrical enclosures.
5. Determine box fill requirements based on wire size and conductor properties.
Raceway fill calculations and ampacity
1. Evaluate conduit dimensions to determine the available internal cross-sectional area.
2. Analyze wire ampacity and insulation characteristics to assess conduit fill capacity.
3. Calculate the maximum current rating for wires with various insulation properties.
4. Compare different wire sizes and insulation types.
Part 3. Special and advanced topics
Overcurrent protection
1. Compare overcurrent protection devices.
2. Calculate overcurrent interrupter rate.
3. Identify protection requirements of electrical circuits.
4. Identify protection requirements of motors.
5. Identify protection requirements of transformers.
Service
1. Define the term electrical service.
2. Compare the requirements for service equipment as outlined in applicable standards.
3. Analyze and compare the factors influencing service disconnect requirements.
4. Describe wiring methods for services that are authorized by the National Electrical Code (NEC).
5. Compare different types of electrical services.
Grounding and bonding
1. Describe grounding fundamentals.
2. Describe grounding electrode systems.
3. Outline the properties of equipment grounding and bonding.
Cooking appliance calculations
1. Calculate demand factors of appliances.
2. Determine amperage requirements for neutral conductor.
3. Determine branch circuit size requirements.
4. Calculate the protection from overcurrent protective devices.