L6-30 Cable Question

ppas11hum

Member
I recently purchased some premade 100ft L6-30 cables from a very reputable entertainment cable dealer and was surprised when I received 12/3 SJOOW wire. I always thought 10/3 cable should be used for 30 amp cables, and was also surprised they used SJOOW instead of SOOW. When I purchase Edison & Stage-Pin from this dealer I always get SOOW cable. I re-read the invoice and they DID put 12/3 SJOOW, I just missed it as it was in with some other line items. Thoughts on this? Do I have a case to get them remade because they're using 12/3 instead of 10/3? Or is it my fault regardless because I approved the quote? It's not a huge deal as it's not a large amount of cable and I can just replace the wire myself if necessary. Just wondering if this was typical or I should say something. Thanks for your advice.
 
I would go back and ask them about it. Maybe they have a reason for it. Depending on your relationship they may cover the mistake or split it with you. It could be they missunderstod what you were looking for. Everyone is human and makes mistakes.
 
A NEMA L6-30 connector requires a cable with a minimum ampacity of 30A. 12/3 cable containing two current-carrying conductors has an ampacity of only 25A, per NEC 400.5(A)(1) column B. Therefore, the cable assembly is not NEC compliant. However, if this were being used in an article 520 occupancy and being fed by a 25A breaker (or smaller) it would be allowed under section 520.9, otherwise known as the "big enough rule".

But, in order to be used in an article 520 venue (theatres and similar locations), the cable would have to be extra-hard usage--type S and derivatives--not type SJ and dervatives.

Bottom line: you have a non- compliant cable that cannot be used. Send it back.

ST
 
Thanks everyone for your help. I still feel like it's my responsibility because I approved the quote. Very simple fix, I purchased a roll of 10/3 SOOW and will put some 5-15 connectors on the SJOOW for use around my shop. Thanks again!
 
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Since they are an entertainment cable dealer, they probably should have made some mention of the possible issues with that cable. You might consider a polite mention to them, something like "Dang, I can't believe I missed the snafu on those L6-30 cables."
 
There is a lot of non-compliant with code stage cables out there. I'm amazed when generally highly regarded dealers even ask if I really meant 12 ga SO etc that's in my spec and who routinely rent and sell lighter guage and/or SJ etc. cables for use on stages.
 

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