Article 722 Cables for Power-Limited Circuits and Fault-Managed Power Circuits.
Code Change Summary: New Article 722 provides cable requirements for power-limited circuits and fault-managed power circuits.
In the 2023 NEC®, new Article 722 provides general requirements for the installation of single- and multiple-conductor cables used in Class 2 and Class 3 power-limited circuits, power-limited fire alarm (PLFA) circuits, and Class 4 fault-managed power circuits.
Language was pulled from other Chapter 7 articles to provide one location having requirements on power-limited circuits and Class 4 circuits.
Highlights in new Article 722 include:
- Section 722.12 states that Class 4 cables are not permitted for any applications that are not part of a Class 4 system (see exception).
- Section 722.24(C) requires Circuit integrity (CI) cable to be supported at a distance not exceeding 24 inches.
- Section 722.24(C) requires Circuit integrity (CI) cable to be secured to the noncombustible surface of the building structure with steel supports and fasteners.
- Section 722.179(A)(16) covers Class 4 cable construction and specifies that cables installed as wiring methods within buildings shall have insulation rated not less than 450 volts dc.
Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2023 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.
2020 Code Language:
This article did not exist.
2023 Code Language:
722.1 Scope. This article covers the general requirements for the installation of single- and multiple-conductor cables used in Class 2 and Class 3 power-limited circuits, power-limited fire alarm (PLFA) circuits, and Class 4 fault-managed power circuits.
722.179 Listing and Marking of Cables.
(A) Listing of Cables. Cables installed as wiring methods within buildings shall be listed as resistant to the spread of fire and other criteria in accordance with 722.179(A)(1) through (A)(16).
(16) Class 4 Cable Construction.
(1) Sizes. Conductors of sizes not smaller than 24 AWG shall be permitted to be used.
(2) Insulation. Insulation on conductors shall be rated not less than 450 volts dc.
(3) Voltage Rating. Cables shall have a voltage rating of not less than 450 volts dc. Voltage ratings shall not be marked on the cables.
(4) Temperature Rating. Cables shall have a temperature rating of not less than 60°C (140°F).
(5) Cabling. Cables shall comply with any requirements provided in the listing of the system.