The idea of "within the array" goes to the idea that the conductors will be located on the underside of an array of traditional framed moduled and will be afforded a modicum of protection from physical damage by the module itself. So the issue is one of physical protection of the conductors. That is what tha AJH should be looking to. If he has cold feet about approving a non-standard method using un-listed componets based on local conditions, then he is understandably going to ask for a solution utilizing listed materials and standard methods. What kind of support are you getting from Lumeta around this?
Mark Frye Berkeley Solar Electric Systems 303 Redbud Way Nevada City, CA 95959 (530) 401-8024 <http://www.berkeleysolar.com/> www.berkeleysolar.com _____ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of [email protected] Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2011 12:44 PM To: [email protected] Subject: [RE-wrenches] 690.31(B) "within the photovoltaic array" Wrenches, I am installing Lumeta peel and stick modules (similar to laminates) on a flat EPDM roof. No racking. NEC2008 690.31(B) says single conductor cable listed and labeled as PV wire shall be permitted in exposed outdoor locations..."within the array". 690.2 defines array as a mechanically integrated assembly of modules or panels within a support structure...to form a direct-current power producing unit. With the Lumeta's there is no support structure. If you look at the diagram in the NEC 2008 (page 70-576) it shows a box around the modules or panels and labels that box as the "Array or photovoltaic power source". My AHJ was at first not sure but then told me I had to install all the PV wire in a listed raceway because the interconnects between the Lumeta's were not within the array. But if you draw a box around all the Lumeta's it would look like the array diagram that I referred to above. Because of my roof layout, it would be much easier to install an unlisted wire management system within the array rather than conduit which I will do but in reading the NEC it just wasn't clear to me what "within the array" means. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thank you. Larry Liesner Design and Installations Elektron Solar, LLC 16 Ketchum St. Westport, CT 06880 203-557-3127 (office) 203-644-2404 (cell) 203-549-0977 (fax) [email protected] NABCEP Certified PV Installer (# 032611-184)
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