Changes to the 2023 National Electric Code

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Mid-September, I was in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, attending the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (I.A.E.I.) Western Section Meeting where the new 2023 NEC took center stage with a majority of the topics discussed. In the next few Code Corner columns, I will try to arm you with understanding of some of the more significant changes so that you can be ready, if and when, your local jurisdiction adopts it. The new 2023 National Electric Code is available to view online with free access at NFPA.org. All print forms of the Code are available.

Although many of the changes are significant, I have not put any emphasis on one more than another. But I think you might be surprised to find out that a new “branch circuit” is being introduced. This new rating of a branch circuit will also re-introduce the acceptance and permissive rules for Aluminum, or Copper-Clad Aluminum, (CCA) conductors and cables. The rating of this new circuit is 10 amperes. This branch circuit was proposed because of the new, energy saving technologies with LED lighting, which could potentially draw substantially less current than the minimum 15-amp branch circuit that is presently permitted in the 2020 NEC. If you do install a 10-amp circuit you are not required to use CCA. You are permitted to use a 14 AWG copper conductor with higher installation costs. When I first learned about this as a member of a Code making panel (CMP-2), I was not in support of this Public Input. Maybe because of my past experiences with aluminum conductors. I am now learning that the newer AA-8000 alloy of aluminum along with a copper cladding is a superior wiring method compared to the older aluminum installations that I repaired and replaced in the past.

The 2023 NEC will reveal two new Tables with a summary of branch circuits which include the new 10 ampere rating. One table is for copper while the next is for aluminum and copper-clad aluminum (CCA). This is found in section 210.24 at tables 210.24(1) for COPPER and 210.24(2) for ALUMINUM. A 10-amp rating was added to table 240.6(A) for standard ampere ratings.

Allow me to give you some facts about copper-clad aluminum and aluminum conductors which may make it easier to accept this wiring method as we adopt the new 2023 Code.

·       Aluminum conductors were first recognized by the NEC in 1901.

·       Aluminum and CCA have more resistance thus requiring larger conductors than copper to carry the same current.

·       Working with aluminum or CCA conductors require special skills and knowledge to prevent failures at the terminals or connections

·       CCA weighs less, costs less, and carries a huge theft deterrent as opposed to the high costs of copper. Four times less exposure to spiking commodities.

·       Since 2005 the NEC requires all aluminum conductors to be made with the AA-8000, aluminum alloy.

·       The past and present NEC permits aluminum and CCA conductors and cables in sections: 110.5, 110.14, 310.3, 310.16, 240.4(D), 334.104,

·       Physical characteristics are the same as copper as far as size with the exception of compact conductors which can be found in Table 5.A, of Chapter 9, as well as the “A” tables of Annex C

·       Most of the problems with aluminum are related to issues with improper termination. This includes dissimilar metals, improper torquing values, and poor workmanship while stripping insulation. Changes of the brass terminals to steel on devices also contributed to the bad stigma associated with aluminum.

·       All 15-ampere and 20-ampere devices are listed for use with copper or copper-clad aluminum (CCA) only, unless marked “CO/ALR” which allows the use of aluminum conductors as well as the other metals mentioned above.

·       Copper to Copper-Clad Aluminum terminations (CCA) are not considered dissimilar metals and are not required to employ listed aluminum terminals or connectors, or the use of an oxide inhibitor. “Noalox”

·       The new 10-amp branch circuit is not permitted for receptacle outlets, fixed appliances, or laundry equipment.

·       This 10-amp circuit is only permitted for lighting outlets or the igniter and controls of a gas fireplace if served by an individual branch circuit.

With the new rating of the 10-amp branch circuit, you will see tables edited and Code sections that include new requirements with the installation of the cables, conductors as well as the overcurrent devices. This new 10-amp branch circuit will be permitted in all occupancies, not just dwellings.

Type NM cable (ROMEX) is now manufactured in copper and copper-clad while the jacket colors will reflect the ampacity of the cable rather than the size. For example, a white jacket will identify 12 AWG, CCA and 14 AWG, Copper which is rated for 15 amps. While a yellow jacket will identify 10 AWG, CCA and 12 AWG, Copper. An additional benefit is 10 AWG and 8 AWG, CCA, exceeds the ampacity of 12 AWG and 10 AWG, copper, respectively, by 5 amps. So, while 12 AWG copper Type NM-B Romex cable is rated for 20 amps the required 10 AWG, CCA for the same installation is rated for 25 amps.

While the use of aluminum conductors for feeder or service conductors may be a common practice for you now as an electrician. Think about the installation requirements that will be required for the branch circuits as this new and improved aluminum conductor is being reintroduced to the market. I can predict that unqualified persons will not be able to correctly install or maintain these branch circuits or make modifications while remaining compliant with the 2023 NEC or following the manufacturer’s instructions in accordance with 110.3(B).  As long as aluminum and CCA conductors are installed by trained and qualified persons, we should not experience any of the problems or the stigma associated with aluminum branch circuits as we did many years ago.