50 amp breaker #8 awg cu

[Scott Schultz]

On inspection, a 50 amp breaker was noted to have 8 awg copper wire. This was to an outdoor jacuzzi. We know that 40 amps is the max for 8 awg AND we know there are always exceptions to these rules. 60 amp breakers are required to have 6 awg so this seems to be on the fence with the judgement call going to the electrician. What are some of your comments?

[Speedy Petey]

Originally Posted by Scott Schultz

We know that 40 amps is the max for 8 awg

Not true at all.
For THHN/THWN conductors in conduit #8cu is typical on a 50A breaker.
I guess this is the "exception" you were referring to, although it is not an exception. It is more the rule as far as conduit work goes.

THHN uses the 75 deg C column in figuring ampacity in newer work. #8 is rated right at 50 amps in that column.
I say "newer" work because most all modern fittings and breakers ARE rated for 75 deg C.

[Speedy Petey]

One thing to check is the Mfg requirements. MANY tub manufacturers DO require a minimum of #6cu to wire tubs.

[David P. Valley]

Scott,

8 AWG may carry a maximum of 70 Amps in free air, or 50 Amps as part of a 3 conductor cable.

[Speedy Petey]

David, if that cable is NM (Romex) then it actually cannot carry 50 amps. NM cable is limited to the 60 deg C column in T310.16 which is 40 amps.

[David P. Valley]

Originally Posted by Speedy Petey

David, if that cable is NM (Romex) then it actually cannot carry 50 amps. NM cable is limited to the 60 deg C column in T310.16 which is 40 amps.

I don't get into the logistics of wiring (I'm not an Electrician). I simply report dangerous conditions if they exist in this sort of situation.

[Speedy Petey]

No problem. I was not commenting on your judgement.
I was just correcting the "...or 50 Amps as part of a 3 conductor cable" statement.

[David P. Valley]

Originally Posted by Speedy Petey

No problem. I was not commenting on your judgement.
I was just correcting the "...or 50 Amps as part of a 3 conductor cable" statement.

Ok..Harley guy.

[Speedy Petey]

LOL! Oh man! Is that my new image?

Cool. Everyone will be afraid of me.

[David P. Valley]

Originally Posted by Speedy Petey

LOL! Oh man! Is that my new image?

Cool. Everyone will be afraid of me.

Why would people be afraid of a Harley dude?

You should see me on a Harley...I just feel out of place with the black clothes and thick wornout leather jacket and the thick chains hanging from my shoulders, and the huge group emblem on the back. Then placing the earring in my left ear and not shaving for weeks so I can look rugged. And then I place the black helmet over my long un-sanitized hair of mine and then I put on a facade by not smiling, so I can look REAL mean.

Do you think I'll get stared at? NOOOOOOOOO....

[ccurrins]

Originally Posted by dvalley

Why would people be afraid of a Harley dude?

You should see me on a Harley...I just feel out of place with the black clothes and thick wornout leather jacket and the thick chains hanging from my shoulders, and the huge group emblem on the back. Then placing the earring in my right ear and not shaving for weeks so I can look rugged. And then I place the black helmet over my long un-sanitized hair of mine and then I put on a facade by not smiling, so I can look REAL mean.

Do you think I'll get stared at? NOOOOOOOOO....

Dave if you would just put on your Nachi hat, decal and tattoo, you would look more respectable.

[Doug Edwards, CMI]

My brother just bought a Harley. I sent him an old joke to help him get over the hump of transitioning from a rice burner to a Harley..

Difference between a Harley and a vacuum cleaner....?




The Position of the dirt bag.

[jtedesco1]

Originally Posted by dedwards

My brother just bought a Harley. I sent him an old joke to help him get over the hump of transitioning from a rice burner to a Harley..

Difference between a Harley and a vacuum cleaner....?




The Position of the dirt bag.

I own six antique Harley's, and an Indian! I once owned a Harley back in 1976 and it was terrible, after that I owned a few Honda's, Gold Wings, and collected many and restored many old bikes, Harley 37 Trike, BSA, and Matchless, I used to find them in the back yard around Glendale and Pasadena and for little money had a garage full of them, won lots of Trophies, I never did Motor Racing though.

Where is Kingston, NY?

[Carmine Fuoco]

Kingston NY is about 1.75-2 hrs North of the city or about 1 hr South of Albany. Exit 19 on the NYS thruway.