Code Q&A: NEC Requirement for AC Cable Bends

Test your knowledge of the NEC with this challenging question.

Mike Holt

Oct. 24, 2024

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Courtesy of www.MikeHolt.com. Based on the 2023 NEC.

Question: The radius of the curve of the inner edge of any bend shall not be less than _____ for AC cable.

a) five times the largest conductor within the cable

b) three times the diameter of the cable

c) five times the diameter of the cable

d) six times the outside diameter of the conductors

See answer below.

Answer: c) five times the diameter of the cable

Section 320.24 states, "Bends in Type AC cable shall be made such that the cable is not damaged. The radius of the curve of the inner edge of any bend shall not be less than five times the diamater of the Type AC cable."

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About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.