400 service upgrade with meter socket marked 320?

[vlocci]

I'm neck deep in a 400 amp service upgrade that will go from the pole, to an outdoor meter socket with a pair of 200a disconnects/breakers (one to my home panel, and the other to the shop panel)

This is being handled by an electrical contractor and is permitted work in cooperation with my town electrical utility.

What gave me pause was the meter socket side of the outdoor panel /disconnect has a sticker that clearly says "for use with a 320 amp meter"

I asked my contractor, who tells me this is no big deal and completely acceptable. He mentioned that this is on the utility side of the panel and is to their code.

Any reason to doubt him?

Vin

 

[pattenp]

320 meter socket is correct for 400A service.

 

[vlocci]

Thanks. I'm assuming this is part of that 80% rule ? Just curious.

 

[Terry D]

They are rated for 320 amps continuous and 400 amps non continuous or a combination of both.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

yup 400a service is 320a continuous. if you want 400a continuous you most likely have to upgrade to a CT meter socket and cabinet.

i doubt you need 400a continuous. the load calc that should've been done will show what you need.

 

[jeepxj]

yup 400a service is 320a continuous. if you want 400a continuous you most likely have to upgrade to a CT meter socket and cabinet.

i doubt you need 400a continuous. the load calc that should've been done will show what you need.

pfft. my driveway looking all CT meter socket like.

 

[Bert_]

Some utilities will ct meter a 400A service, others want direct meter. Direct meter in that size means a 320A socket. This usually isn't a choice for the guy putting it in. The utility tells you what to use.

 

[lazyriverrat]

Unless you are smelting steel in you barn youre gonna be fine.

 

[Diesel Dan]

That's what I currently have.
400A service (320A socket) two 200A disconnects on a H-frame.

 

[86turbodsl]

Same as what i have. 320A meter socket with dual lugs, 200A to each breaker panel, one in house, one in barn.

 

[u2slow]

Be thankful you can have 320A direct metering into two 200A panels.

My utility requires the CT setup (above 200A), and a 400A main switch or breaker. Its expensive.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Be thankful you can have 320A direct metering into two 200A panels.

My utility requires the CT setup (above 200A), and a 400A main switch or breaker. Its expensive.

They must be supplying your meter pans...

 

[u2slow]

Nah... commercial product made to their specs.

Example: https://tnb.ca.abb.com/en/fichier/whatsnewsousmenu/MICROJS4SERIES.pdf

 

[wyliesdiesels]

sounds like a conflict of interest to me.

PoCos out here dont supply meter pans or mains nor do they have manufacturer spec'd units and they allow 400a (320a) pans without CTs