Knockout Capacity

[cagullett1]

Hey guys,

I'm a bit of a rule follower, and want to make sure when I'm adding breakers to my panel, that is done up to code and in a professional manner.

My house was built in 2013 and a standard Square D panel was installed (similar to this: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Square-D-Homeline-200-Amp-30-Space-60-Circuit-Indoor-Main-Plug-On-Neutral-Breaker-Load-Center-with-Cover-Value-Pack-HOM3060M200PCVP/204836369). All wire was ran through the top of the panel, with 2 wires running out of each knockout, utilizing button connectors ( http://www.homedepot.com/p/Arlington-Industries-3-8-in-Plastic-Push-In-Button-Connectors-10-Pack-NM94-10/100186858?keyword=button+connector ).

My question is, if I can physically get a third 12/2 NM cable through the button connector/knock out, is it allowed? Each button connector currently has 2 wires through it. I wasn't sure if they did this out of convenience for themselves, or if there is some code limiting that. Please advise. Thanks!

Edit: I just noticed that the link for the button connectors mentions that 2 cables per connector. I know I can fit 3, is that allowed? Or do I have to follow the listing of the connector?

 

[pattenp]

You are to use the clamp/connector as listed.

 

[cagullett1]

BUMP... any other opinions, or is patternp correct?

 

[rockwithjason]

He is correct

 

[Rock knocker]

I just noticed that the link for the button connectors mentions that 2 cables per connector. I know I can fit 3, is that allowed? Or do I have to follow the listing of the connector?

What do you think?

Follow the listing and don't ask questions hoping you'll get an anonymous exemption to the NEC over the net

 

[JACDes]

romex... bah.. with conduit you could have many more circuits in a pipe, meaning fewer homerun connections to the panel meaning fewer knock out connections.

I get why people like and use romex, Most cities in IL you can't for new work so we stick to EMT & rigid conduit.

 

[Orionrising]

and depending on the size of the knockout/ clamp it may already be in violation, last small ones I used were labled 2/14 1/12 if I recall.

 

[cagullett1]

What do you think?

Follow the listing and don't ask questions hoping you'll get an anonymous exemption to the NEC over the net

That was my question though, is there a NEC code that makes you follow the listing on the bag of these little connectors, or is that just a manufacturing thing?

 

[cagullett1]

romex... bah.. with conduit you could have many more circuits in a pipe, meaning fewer homerun connections to the panel meaning fewer knock out connections.

I get why people like and use romex, Most cities in IL you can't for new work so we stick to EMT & rigid conduit.

Everything new here in TX is done with romex. In fact, I don't recall ever seeing conduit ran to a panel.

 

[slow]

it is code in cities like Chicago to put everything in conduit, gotta love the unions.

Ryan

 

[hammlm]

Yes, code says you have to use a listed device in the manner (and capacity) it is listed.

2 cables in the connector if that's what the bag says. Use another knock-out or make a new hole.

 

[JohnX14]

Everyone here is spot on. Plus I highly doubt you will get a third NM cable in one of those without damaging it.

 

[cagullett1]

Yes, code says you have to use a listed device in the manner (and capacity) it is listed.

2 cables in the connector if that's what the bag says. Use another knock-out or make a new hole.

I guess this is what I was looking for. I searched online and couldn't really tell... maybe because it's such a stupid question lol

Everyone here is spot on. Plus I highly doubt you will get a third NM cable in one of those without damaging it.

3 12/2 romex cables fit without any damage.... it's definitely tight though!

 

[JACDes]

it is code in cities like Chicago to put everything in conduit, gotta love the unions.

Ryan

Actually I prefer it in pipe for many reasons.

The system has a direct/permanent ground path, (metal pipe, fittings, and boxes) so no need to install additional ground wires.

with proper planning you only need a handful of conduit home-runs to the panel

You don't have to worry about damaging it with a drywall screw.

You actually need some skill to bend conduit, for a concealed system no one appreciates the quality of the electrical rough in but it is a better/safer installation.

For a garage / shop you can do an exposed system (if you like that look) and not have to worry about cables getting damaged.

 

[rockwithjason]

they also have less fires