NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

For tap conductors, what is the maximum allowable length that complies with the ampacity of the tap conductors?

1. 5 ft

2. 10 ft

3. 15 ft

4. 20 ft

The correct answer is: 10 ft

The maximum allowable length for tap conductors that complies with ampacity requirements is 10 feet. This specification is crucial because tap conductors are used to connect equipment or circuits to a larger conductor and must be sized adequately to handle the load without overheating. According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), tap conductors can be no longer than 10 feet to ensure they maintain their ampacity rating according to the conditions they are installed in. This limit helps to prevent voltage drop and ensures that the conductors can carry the necessary current safely without exceeding their thermal limits. Understanding the importance of this 10-foot limitation helps to ensure compliance with NEC standards, thus promoting safety and efficiency in electrical installations.