you need to size off of 5hp. the 5hp SPL does mean special. But what it really means is this motor has the ability to develop 5hp. the FLA amps (15) is only to be used for your overloads. So here we go, let the arguments begin if they must, that's not what I here for-
(2014 NEC code)
step 1-
5 hp motor is rated for 28 amps. per the code
step 2
28x125%=35 amps....please move on to step 3 unless you question this step-------- if you want to have the convocation about being continuous vs non continuous lets have this convocation now. if you say its non then lets look at that code. 430.22E. now lets look at T430.22E. you tell me where you fall at with and please explain why you think it does. keep in mind the columns say " 5-minute RATED motor, 15 minute RATED motor, 30-60 minute RATED motor, and continuous RATED motor. again I'm not hear to argue I'm here to have an educated convocation about the code.
step 3
now we need to select wire.
35 amp at the 75 degree C column gets you #10s. I know your using "romex" so now we look at the 60 column you need #8 AWG.
step 4
if your breaker is like everyone else home breaker then it is sized like so, 28x250%=70 this is the LARGEST your breaker can if you don't have any problems starting. I would run a 60. if you have the paper work to this motor it might tell you a smaller size. if not then you default to this code)
step 5 overloads.
I'm assuming that motor has internal overloads. this is when you would use the FLA.
fun fact- your 230 volt motor is rated to run at either 240 OR 208. (I assume your running on 240 volts.) keep in mind if you run a 230 volt motor at 208 it wont last as long as it would in a 240 volt situation. 208 is right at the bottom of your 10% drop.
let talk ladies and gentlemen
