it would look like crap where this is. One or two conduits would just look better. Looks like two conduits. Still trying to figure out how to get low
voltage and
line through same box and terminate at
fixture.
Visible? Then Two conduits is the way to go!
Two real options, depending on local codes.
1) Keep divided until the
fixture
2) Keep divided until the box before the
fixture, perhaps with a divider inside the box (some have provisions for this, like wiremould)
As long as the connections for low and
line voltages are in the same part of the
fixture (not divided) they can be along side (suggest a
wire rated for 300v), should be brought together only as close to this
point as "practable". If the fixtures have separate points for them you'd have to come in separate.
Commonly for things like
emergency lighting we run the 12vDC with the same [HASHTAG]#12[/HASHTAG]
wire used for the
line voltage. Keeping them in separate conduits and bringing together into the same 4x4 boxes before running down to the emergency light or battery pack. This allows for them to share the box as long as labeled properly, but not the same
conduit until the
point that they would "have to run together".
The
wire we typically use for fire alarm systems is also rated for 300v, with fire
rating etc (like securex). However either way I'd run it by an inspector before you decide.
Doesn't
NEC 725.54 allow for mixed high and low
voltage conductors in the same
raceway under one of the exceptions? I seem to recall a clause about it being acceptable when the low
voltage conductors are associated with the equipment and the
insulation is rated for the highest
voltage. There might also be clauses in there about installation details and maintaining separation of connections.
EXACTLY, as long as the
wire is rated for the 120v or whatever, you are golden, but you are required to separate "when you are able to". Around here, that means its up to the inspector.
I HAVE run 12vDC and 120vAC down the same
conduit the whole way. But of course using all [HASHTAG]#12[/HASHTAG] stranded
wire. Im sure you could do this in chicago.