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E21-G01 - 2 Wiring Sys Application For Various Environmental Classification
E21-G01 - 2 Wiring Sys Application For Various Environmental Classification
E21-G01 - 2 Wiring Sys Application For Various Environmental Classification
REV. NO. 2
ENGINEERING STANDARD DATE OCT 2001
PAGE 1 OF 24
This document is issued by Engineering Standards Section, SABIC Engineering & Project Management, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The information contained in this document is the confidential property of SABIC. It can not be disclosed, copied or used for any purpose
without prior approval from SABIC. If you are not authorized to possess this document, please destroy it immediately.
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 2 OF 24
CONTENTS
1. SCOPE .......................................................
. 3 II (Continued) Corrosion-Resistant
2. REFERENCES 3 Characteristics of VariouMaterials and
3. DEFINITIONS 3 Coatings for Electrical Raceways .............16
4. GENERAL .................................................. 3 II (Continued) Corrosion-Resistant
5. ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS 3 Characteristics of Various Materials
6. WIRING SYSTEM TYPES 3 and Coatings for Electrical Raceways 17
7. WIREWAY SYSTEMS ................................ 4 III The Electrolytic Potentials of the
7.1 Rigid Metal Conduit Details 4 More Common Metals 18
7.2 Rigid Metal Conduit Systems 4 IV Relative Costs of Various Types
7.3 Flexible Metal Conduit ........................... 4 of Conduit Systems ..................................19
7.4 Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) 5 IV (Continued) Relative Costs
7.5 Intermediate Metal Conduit 5 of Various Types of Conduit Systems
7.6 Rigid Nonmetallic Conduit..................... 5 (Fittings and Supports Included) 20
7.7 Cable Tray 5 IV (Continued) Relative Costs of
7.8 Busways and Wireways 6 Various Types of Conduit Systems 21
7.9 Underfloor and Cellular V Comparison of Wiring Methods ................. 22
Metal Floor Raceways ........................... 6 V (Continued) Comparison of
8. CABLE 6 Wiring Methods 23
8.1 Metal Clad Cables 6 V (Continued) Comparison of
8.2 Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable ................ 7 Wiring Methods 24
9. MINERAL-INSULATED
METAL-SHEATHED CABLE 7
10. AREA TYPES AND
PERMITTED WIRING INSTALLATIONS 8
10.1 General-purpose Locations ................... 8
10.2 Dusty Nonhazardous Locations and
Hazardous Locations 8
10.3 Damp and Wet and Slightly Corrosive
Locations 8
10.4 Highly Corrosive Locations ................... 8
10.5 Class I, Division 1, Hazardous Locations 8
10.6 Class I, Division 2, Hazardous Locations 9
10.7 Class II, Division 1, and Class III,
Division 1, Hazardous Locations ......... 10
10.8 Class II, Division 2,
Hazardous Locations 10
11. SELECTING CORROSION-RESISTANT
RACEWAY MATERIALS 11
TABLE
I Wiring Systems Applicable
to Various Locations ................................. 13
I (Continued) Wiring Systems Applicable to
Various Locations 14
II Corrosion-Resistant Characteristics
of Various Materials and Coatings
for Electrical Raceways 15
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 3 OF 24
1. Scope
This standard describes the various types of electrical wiring systems and the selection of a proper wiring
system from the standpoint of mechanical design.
2. References
Reference is made in this standard to the following documents. The latest issues, amendments, and
supplements to these documents shall apply unless otherwise indicated.
SABIC Engineering Standards (SES)
E22-S01 Cables, Low Voltage (NEC and IEC)
E22-S02 Cables 5kV to 35 kV (NEC and IEC)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
70 National Electrical Code (NEC)
3. Definitions
For the purpose of understanding this standard the following definitions apply.
Grounded Conductor. A circuit conductor that is intentionally grounded.
Grounding Conductor. A conductor used to connect equipment or the grounded circuit of a wiring
system to a grounding electrode or electrodes.
4. General
Any conflict(s) between this standard, SES and industry standards, engineering drawings, and contract
documents shall be resolved at the discretion of SABIC.
5. Environmental Requirements
5.1 Indoor conditions
a. Temperature range: air-conditioned 0 to 40 °C
b. Relative humidity: 10 to 100 percent
5.2 Outdoor conditions
a. Ambient temperature range: 1 to 50 °C
b. Metallic surface temperatures reaching 75 °C due to solar radiation
c. Corrosive desert atmosphere with blowing sand and dust
5.3 Storage/transport conditions
a. Ambient temperature: 2 to 70 °C
b. Relative humidity range: 1 to 95 percent, non-condensing
6.2 Other types of wiring methods used to a lesser extent, and frequently forming a part of one of the above
types of wiring systems include:
a. Flexible metal and nonmetallic conduit
b. Liquid tight flexible metal conduit
c. Bus ways and wire ways
d. Under floor and cellular metal floor raceways
e. Surface metal raceway
f. Electrical metallic tubing (EMT or thin-wall conduit)
g. Intermediate metal conduit
h. Rigid nonmetallic conduit
i. PVC coated rigid metal conduit
6.3 The various wiring systems and uses are covered in the following sections of this standard:
a. Table I Iists the wiring systems and their applicability for the various environmental classifications
as defined in NFPA 70, Article 500 Hazardous Locations, Classes I, II, and III, Divisions 1 and 2
b. Table II lists corrosion resistant characteristics of materials and coatings for electrical raceways
c. Table III lists comparative materials, labor, and installed costs of the various types of wiring
raceways. The installed cost of hot-dipped galvanized conduit in a general purpose installation is
established arbitrarily at 100 percent with the other conduit types and materials scaled to this
reference.
d. Table IV is a comparison of interior wiring systems
6.4 Where cables are listed in this standard, NEC cable types are used. Both NEC type cable and the IEC
equivalent may be used interchangeably. For acceptable NEC cable constructions and their IEC
equivalents, see SES E22-S01 and SES E22-S02.
7. Wireway Systems
7.1 Rigid Metal Conduit Details
Rigid metal conduit (RMC) is manufactured from tubing, usually steel or aluminum, of standard pipe weight
and thickness, which permits cutting standard threads. A rigid conduit system consists of continuous
lengths of electrical conduit with outlet boxes, fittings, and pull boxes located at strategic points in the
raceway, all installed as a complete system before conductors are pulled in. A rigid metal conduit system
provides maximum protection for conductors. When adequately installed, it also provides a dependable
protective grounding path for equipment. See NFPA 70 Article 250. However, the conduit system shall not
be intentionally used as the grounding conductor.
7.2 Rigid Metal Conduit Systems
A rigid metal conduit system can be installed, both exposed and concealed, under all environmental
conditions. Different kinds of conduit materials and finishes, and classes of fittings and boxes are used,
depending upon the occupancy and environmental conditions.
7.3 Flexible Metal Conduit
7.3.1 Ordinary flexible metal conduit consists of a continuous zinc-plated metal strip spirally wound on itself
and interlocked. Liquid tight flexible metal conduit is similarly constructed and covered with a tough,
extruded synthetic material.
7.3.2 Ordinary flexible metal conduit is not waterproof. Liquid tight type should be used in all wet locations
except Class I, Division l, hazardous locations where the requirement shall be an approved explosion-proof
type (see NFPA 70, Article 501). Flexible metal conduit is usually limited in use to short lengths where
flexible connections are required, for example:
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 5 OF 24
a. Between the ends of rigid conduit and terminal boxes on motors that drive equipment where
some adjustment is necessary in the drive
b. Between the ends of rigid conduit and terminal box on the equipment, to enable the equipment
to be disconnected and removed more readily
c. Between the ends of rigid conduit and machinery, to localize machine vibrations
d. On machinery itself in congested locations where flexible conduit may be installed more easily
than rigid conduit
7.3.3 Liquid tight metal conduit is used for connection to motors or other portable equipment where
flexibility of the connection is required. It shall not be used under the following conditions:
a. Where subject to mechanical damage
b. Where in contact with rapidly moving parts
c. Under conditions where its temperature, with or without enclosed conductors carrying current, is
above its rating (NFPA 70 Article 351).
7.3.4 Flexible nonmetallic conduit is sometimes used instead of metal. Where a grounding conductor is
required for the circuit, it may be installed inside or outside the conduit. If installed outside, it shall not
exceed 1.8 m, as specified in NFPA 70 Article 351.
7.4 Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT)
7.4.1 Electrical metallic tubing (EMT or thin-wall conduit) is manufactured from tubing, usually steel or
aluminum, in sizes 1.3 cm to 10 cm (1/2 in to 4 in). EMT has the same inside diameter as standard pipe up
to 5 cm (2-in) size, but a wall thickness less than one-half that of standard pipe. The thin wall does not
allow sufficient stock for cutting threads.
7.4.2 Complete mechanical protection is provided by this raceway system, but it is not as strong
mechanically, nor does it provide as much protection against corrosion as rigid metal conduit. EMT shall
not be used where subject to vibration. EMT shall only be used in non-hazardous locations for building
lighting and receptacle wiring.
7.5 Intermediate Metal Conduit
7.5.1 Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC) is manufactured from mild steel in sizes 13 mm (1/2 in) to 100 mm
(4 in). IMC has the same corresponding outside diameter as rigid metal conduit, but a larger interior
diameter. The average weight of rigid aluminum conduit is approximately 47 percent of IMC. The average
weight of IMC is approximately 73 percent of galvanized steel conduit. The average weight of EMT is
approximately 50 to 60 percent of IMC. The installed cost of IMC is approximately equal to that of rigid
conduit.
7.5.2 IMC shall be used only for building light and receptacle wiring in non-hazardous locations.
7.6 Rigid Nonmetallic Conduit
7.6.1 Rigid Nonmetallic Conduit (RNC) and fittings are manufactured from suitable nonmetallic material
(PVC) that is resistant to moisture and a wide range of chemical atmospheres.
7.6.2 RNC shall be minimum schedule 40 and shall only be used in underground concrete duct banks.
7.7 Cable Tray
7.7.1 NFPA 70, Article 318, covers the use of cable trays. Cable installations in trays may be used for
exposed work, either inside or outside buildings; in dry or wet locations; and where subject to corrosive
vapors, providing the materials of construction and insulation are adequately resistant to deteriorating
elements.
7.7.2 The use of cable tray installations may be prohibited in certain areas by local codes. Where such
installations are subject to such local codes, permission shall be obtained from SABIC inspector before
proceeding.Power cables and instrumentation cables shall not be run in the same cable tray.
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 6 OF 24
7.7.3 All cable tray systems should be designed as a complete system, with no physical discontinuities
unless totally unavoidable.
7.7.4 Cable trays shall not be used as a grounding conductor. Cable trays shall be made electrically
continuous; section to section and cable tray system to earth. Ground path continuity shall be maintained
between sections by the cable tray manufacturer’s splice plates (where certified approved for grounding) or
by installation of a bonding jumper.
7.8 Busways and Wireways
7.8.1 Busways and wireways are forms of wiring raceways consisting of sheet-metal troughs with
removable covers. A busway contains a single circuit usually of large capacity; in some cases arranged for
tapping off at convenient intervals and in other cases, untapped between two points. A wireway is a duct or
channel which may contain any number of conductors whose sum of cross-sectional areas does not
exceed 20 percent of the interior cross-sectional area of the duct or channel (NFPA 70, Article 362).
7.8.2 Busways (NFPA 70, Article 364) and wireways (NFPA 70, Article 362) shall be installed only for
exposed work. Where used outdoors or in wet locations, they shall be of approved construction, for
example raintight or watertight. Busways and wireways shall not be installed where they may be subject to
severe physical damage or corrosive vapors. Busways and wireways may be used in Class I, Division 2
locations if they are enclosed and gasketed (NFPA 70, Article 501). Wireways may be used in Class II,
Division 2 locations if they are dust-tight (NFPA 70, Article 502).
7.9 Underfloor and Cellular Metal Floor Raceways
7.9.1 Underfloor raceways (NFPA 70, Article 354) are wiring troughs placed in floor slabs of buildings,
arranged in a way that outlet fittings may be tapped into the wiring troughs at convenient points in their
length. Cellular metal floor raceways (NFPA 70, Article 356) are similar to wiring troughs, except that the
metal cells themselves are floor supports for the floor finish.
7.9.2 Raceways of this kind are usually installed in offices, shops, and laboratory buildings for receptacle,
telephone, and signal wiring, and outlets to desks, laboratory tables, and machinery that are not accessible
from wall outlets.
8. Cable
The cable types in this section shall be acceptable. NEC cable type identifiers are used. For equivalent
NEC and IEC cable constructions, see SES E22-S01 and SES E22-S02.
8.1 Metal Clad Cables
8.1.1 Metal-clad cable (Type MC or armored) is a factory assembly of one or more conductors, each
individually insulated and enclosed in a metallic sheath of interlocking tape, or a smooth, or corrugated
tube, or steel wires, or braid with overall PVC jacket.
8.1.2 Type MC cables shall be permitted for use as follows:
a. For services, feeders, and branch circuits; for power, and lighting
b. Indoors or outdoors
c. Where exposed or concealed
d. Direct buried where identified for such use
e. In cable tray
f. In any approved raceway
g. As open runs of cable
h. As aerial cable on a messenger
i. In hazardous locations as permitted in NFPA 70 Articles 501, 502, 503, 504, and 505
j. In dry locations and embedded in plaster finish on brick or other masonry except in damp or wet
locations
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 7 OF 24
k. In wet locations
8.2 Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable
8.2.1 Types NM and NMC
a. Nonmetallic-sheathed cable (NM) (commonly known as Romex) is an insulated multiconductor
cable protected by a nonmetallic sheath or outer covering. The use of nonmetallic-sheathed cable
should usually be confined to temporary buildings of wood, masonry block, or tile construction in a
non-hazardous location.
b. Type NM cable may be installed for both exposed and concealed work in normally dry
nonhazardous areas. Moisture- and corrosion-resistant cable, Type NMC, may be installed for both
exposed and concealed work, in dry, moist, damp, and corrosive locations, and in outside and inside
walls of masonry block or tile (NFPA 70, Article 336).
8.2.2 Type TC CABLE
Type TC power and control tray cable is a factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors, with or
without associated bare or covered grounding conductors under a nonmetallic sheath, approved for
installation in cable trays, in raceways, or where supported by a messenger wire. The use of this cable
shall be as specified in NFPA 70 Article 340.
8.2.3 Type MV Cable and IEC Equivalent
Medium voltage cable (Type MV) or IEC equivalent is a single or multiconductor solid di-electric insulated
cable rated 2001 V or higher as permitted by NFPA 70 Article 326 or the IEC standard. Type MV cables or
IEC cables shall be suitable for use on power systems rated up to 35,000 V in wet or dry locations in
raceways, directly buried (when armored), or installed in cable tray. In cable tray, Type MV or IEC cable
shall be adequately protected from physical damage.
8.2.4 Type PLTC and ITC Cables
8.2.4.1 Power-limited tray cable (Type PLTC) and instrumentation tray cable (ITC) are a factory assembly
of two or more insulated conductors under a nonmetallic jacket as described in NFPA 70, Articles 725 and
727, respectively. The insulated conductors shall be a 0.3 mm2 (22 AWG) to 4 mm2 (12 AWG).The
conductor material shall be copper (solid or stranded). Insulation on conductors shall be suitable for 300 V
maximum for Type PLTC, and for 600 V maximum for Type ITC. The cable core shall be:
a. Two or more parallel conductors
b. One or more group assemblies of twisted or parallel conductors, or
c. A combination of a and b
8.2.4.2 A metallic shield or a metallized foil shield with drain wire(s) shall be permitted to be applied either
over the cable core, over groups of conductors, or both. The outer jacket shall be a flame-retardant,
sunlight- and moisture-resistant nonmetallic material. This cable shall be installed in cable trays, in
raceways. The cable may be directly buried when armored.
a. Conduit shall be sealed in accordance with NFPA 70 Article 501 to prevent the propagation of
flame from one part of the system to another.
b. Where the conduit comes from a hazardous location, the first fitting after a conduit emerges from
a concrete slab or from underground, a seal fitting shall be installed, whether or not the conduit
emerges in a hazardous location.
10.5.4 Drainage (NFPA 70, Article 501). Approved fittings shall be provided at the lowest point, or points,
of the conduit system for draining off condensation in wet hazardous locations.
10.6 Class I, Division 2, Hazardous Locations
10.6.1 Wiring method (NFPA 70, Article 501) shall be:
a. Threaded rigid metal conduit
b. Enclosed gasketed busways
c. Type MC, MV, TC, ITC or IEC equivalent cable with approved termination fittings. Type PLTC or
IEC equivalent for power limited signaling circuits. See SES E22-S01 and E22-S02 for NEC and IEC
type equivalent cable construction.
d. Flexible metal conduit has only a limited approved application, for example for motor
connections and other equipment where some adjustment in location is necessary, to accommodate
equipment vibration and for connections to field mounted process instruments. Liquid tight
flexible-metal conduit shall be used in wet and corrosive locations.
e. Flexible metal conduit shall not be used in Division 1 hazardous locations
f. Flexible cord requirements are the same as those for flexible cords in Type E installations
(NFPA 70, Article 501)
g. For cable installations in cable trays, see NFPA 70, Article 318 and 7.3.1 of this standard
regarding installation limitations. Where trays pass through walls from a hazardous area to a non
hazardous area, or through floors, the entire opening shall be effectively sealed after cables are
installed.
h. Underground wiring shall be installed in rigid metal conduit, or direct buried 600 mm or more,
installed in nonmetallic conduit or duct if enclosed in concrete
i. Armored cable may be direct buried in areas not subject to vehicular traffic. It shall be buried a
minimum of 600 mm, surrounded by a 300 mm thick layer of thermal sand (Rho = 120). The top of the
thermal sand shall be covered with 150 mm thick red concrete or red concrete tiles. Back fill to grade
with native soil.
10.6.2 Fittings and Boxes
a. Fittings, boxes, and equipment enclosures need not be approved explosion proof type except at
arcing devices (NFPA 70, Article 501). Conduit terminations shall be made to the box body as
permitted by the NFPA 70. Where double lock nut type of conduit terminations are permitted, bonding
jumpers from the box body to the conduit shall be provided.
b. Connectors for ordinary flexible conduit terminations and for connecting the flexible conduit to
rigid conduit shall be as specified in NFPA 70, Article 350. Connectors for liquid tight flexible conduit
shall be as specified in NFPA 70, Article 351.
10.6.3 Sealing (NFPA 70, Article 501)
a. Conduits shall be sealed at all enclosures which are required to be explosion-proof and where
conduit runs pass from the Class I, Division 2, hazardous locations into a non hazardous location
(see NFPA 70, Article 501).
b. The first fitting after a conduit emerges from a concrete slab or from underground shall be a
sealing fitting.
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 10 OF 24
10.6.4 Drainage (NFPA 70, Article 501).The same provisions shall apply as those for Type E installations,
except that approved explosion-proof fittings shall be required only at approved explosion-proof housings.
10.7 Class II, Division 1, and Class III, Division 1, Hazardous Locations
10.7.1 Wiring method (NFPA 70, Article 502 and, Article 503) shall be:
a. Threaded rigid conduit. For Class III, Division 1, electrical metallic tubing, nonmetallic conduit, or
dust-tight wireways may be used.
b. Type MI (mineral-insulated) cable requirements shall be the same as for Type E installations, for
example approved type termination fittings.
c. For Class III, Division 1, MC cable may be used with approved fittings
d. Flexible metal conduit shall be used in limited applications only, for example at motor terminals
and other equipment where some adjustment in location is necessary. Liquid tight flexible conduit may
be used except where dusts are of an electrically conducting nature. Bonding jumpers shall be
provided across flexible conduit sections (see NFPA 70, Articles 502 and 503). Where dusts are of an
electrically conducting nature, flexible cords with dust-tight seals at both ends shall be used. Cords
shall have an additional conductor for grounding. Approved dust-ignition-proof flexible couplings may
also be used, and shall not require a bonding jumper.
10.7.2 Fittings and boxes (NFPA 70, Article 502 and, Article 503)
a. All fittings and boxes shall be threaded hub or threaded boss type for connection to conduit or
cable terminations; have close-fitting covers and shall have no openings, for example holes for
attachment screws, through which dust might enter, or through which sparks or burning material might
escape. Fittings and boxes in which taps, joints, or terminal connections are made, or which are in
locations where the dusts are of an electrically conducting nature, shall be approved dust-ignition
proof type for Class II locations. Conduit terminations shall be made in accordance with NFPA 70,
Article 502 and Article 503.
b. Connectors for liquid tight flexible conduit terminations and for connecting the flexible conduit to
rigid conduit shall be approved for that application.
10.7.3 Sealing (NFPA 70, Article 502)
a. Where a raceway provides communication between a non dust-tight fitting or enclosure and one
which is required to be approved, dust-ignition-proof for Class II locations, three alternative methods
may be used to prevent the travel of dust through the raceway to the dust-tight enclosure:
(i) A permanent and effective seal
(ii) A horizontal section of raceway which is not less than 3 m long, or
(iii) A vertical section of raceway extending downward from the dust-tight enclosure, which is not less
than 1.5 m long
b. Seals can be provided using any of the seal fittings designed for Class I locations (see NFPA 70,
Article 501).
11.7 Polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride coatings repel corrosion from caustics, alkalies, and heavy
mineral acids (hydrochloric and sulphuric). They are not recommended in the presence of formic acid and
ketones or esters.
11.8 To combat chemical and galvanic corrosion in electrical wiring raceway installations, consideration
should be given to components of conduit fittings, for example metals used in screws, covers, and
operating shaft and gasket materials. Suitable materials for such minor parts include stainless steel or
cadmium chromate-plated steel screws, synthetic gasket materials, stainless steel, or nylon operating
shafts and bushings, aluminum screws and parts for aluminum fittings, and protective lubricants for
aluminum threads. Since few gases or vapors entering enclosures are corrosive until they are combined
with water, consideration should be given to draining and venting enclosed equipment and raceways.
11.9 See to the list in Table III below for the common metals in galvanic order. Any metal in this list is
electropositive to any element preceding it and electronegative to any element following it; however, this
arrangement fluctuates with external conditions and cannot serve as an absolute indicator.
11.10 Protecting personnel, buildings, and equipment in hazardous locations, where the vapors or gases
are both flammable and corrosive, requires that the electrical equipment and wiring system be both
corrosion-resistant and explosion-proof to suit the particular hazardous classification (NEC, Article 500,
NEC, Article 501, and NEC, Article 502).
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 13 OF 24
TABLE I
Wiring Systems Applicable to Various Locations
RGS PVC EMT & IMC & Armored Unarmored ITC PLTC
Conduit Coated Wire Wire Cables in Cables in Cable In Cable
& Wire Conduit & Cable Cable Tray Cable in
Wire Tray Tray Cable
Tray
PROCESS AREAS
Pump rows, manifolds, X X X X X X
frequently used valves
Heat exchangers X X X X X X
Cooling towers, equipment X X X X X X
area
Furnaces X X X X X X
Compressor houses X X X X X X
Separators X X X X X X
Boiling tanks, stationary X X X X X X
dryers, stationary and gravity
crystallizers
Stills, mechanical dryers, X X X X X X
evaporators, filtrators,
mechanical crystallizer
Tanks for extractors, cooking, X X X X X X
nitrators, percolators
Ball mills, grinders X X X X X X
Compressors, large blowers X X X X X X
and fans, mechanical
equipment
NON-PROCESS AREAS
Pump houses X X X X X X
Pump area X X X X X X
Boiler and air compressor X X X X X X
plants
Tank farm areas X X X X
Loading racks (terminals) X X X X X X
Loading racks X X X X X X
(chemical plants)
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 14 OF 24
TABLE I (Continued)
Wiring Systems Applicable to Various Locations
RGS PVC EMT & IMC & Armored Unarmored ITC PLTC
Conduit Coated Wire Wire Cables Cables in Cable in Cable in
& Wire Conduit in Cable Cable Tray Cable Cable
& Wire Tray Tray Tray
Tanker dock facilities:
Outdoor areas X X X X X
Indoor areas X X X X X X
MANUFACTURING AREAS
Casting and stretching X X X X
Coating X X X X
Mill roll storage X X X X
Finishing X X X X
Container handling X X X X
SERVICES AND CONTROLS
Electrical substations &
switch yards X X X X X
Substation building X
BUILDINGS
Chemical storage X
Lab rooms X
Stock rooms X
Outdoor X
SHOPS
TABLE II
Corrosion-Resistant Characteristics of Various Materials
and Coatings for Electrical Raceways
EXPOSURE
RATING
LIGHT(a) MEDIUM(b) HEAVY(c)
Excellent 5 20+ 10-15 5-10
Good 4 10-20 5-10 2-5
Fair 3 5-10 3-5 1-2
Poor 2 3-5 1-1/2-3 1/
2-1
Key:
(a) Light - Outdoor location with occasional atmospheric contamination within human tolerance. No
spills of corrosive agent. Wiring system subject only to washing by rain.
(b) Medium - Environmental atmosphere containing vapors within range of continuous human
tolerance. Occasionally splashing or spills of corrosive agent averaging once a month. Subject to
occasional washdown.
(c) Heavy - Environmental atmosphere containing vapors which are continuously, intermittently, or
periodically beyond range of human tolerance. Frequent splashing or spills of corrosive agent
averaging twice a week. Subject to washdown twice a week or more frequently.
ENGINEERING STANDARD
TABLE II (Continued)
Corrosion-Resistant Characteristics of Various Materials and Coatings for Electrical Raceways
CORROSIVE AGENT
Excellent=100 percent
Sulsulphurous H2S03
potassium hydroxide
Phosphorous H3P03
Water condensation
Sulphuric H2S04
Sodium and
Salt water
Oxidizing
Gasoline
Benzene
Alcohols
Ketones
Acetic
Toluol
Nitric
Acid
Right steel conduit 1. Black enameled 2 1 1 1 3 1 1 5 5 2 2 2 5 5 5 5 5 5 2 1 59
2. Hot-dipped 3 1 1 1 3 2 1 5 5 3 3 3 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 3 68
galvanized
3. Electrogalvanized 3 1 1 1 3 1 1 5 5 3 2 2 5 5 5 5 5 5 3 2 63
4. Metallized-zinc 4 2 2 2 4 2 2 5 5 3 3 3 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 4 75
finish
Right wrought iron conduit sherardized 4 2 2 2 4 2 2 5 5 4 3 3 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 3 75
Electrical metallic 1. Hot-dipped 3 1 1 1 3 2 1 5 5 3 3 3 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 3 68
tubing (EMT) galvanized inside
and outside
Nonferrous metal 1. Aluminum alloy 5 2 2 2 3 3 2 2 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 76
NUMBER
rigid conduit 6063-T42(1)
REV. NO.
PAGE
DATE
2. Everdur 5 3 2 1 2 2 2 5 2 5 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 76
3. Copper-silicon 5 3 3 1 2 2 2 5 2 5 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 78
alloy
16 OF 24
OCT 2001
2
E21-G01
Stainless steel 1. Grade 304 5 1 2 5 5 4 3 5 3 4 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 83
2. Grade 316 5 1 3 5 5 4 3 5 5 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 88
ENGINEERING STANDARD
TABLE II (Continued)
Corrosion-Resistant Characteristics of Various Materials and Coatings for Electrical Raceways
CORROSIVE AGENT
Excellent=100 percent
Sulsulphurous H2S03
potassium hydroxide
Phosphorous H3P03
Water condensation
Neutral and alkaline
Ammonia hydroxide
TYPE OF WIRING RACEWAY
Variety factor(2)
Transformer oil
Hydrofluoride
Hydrochloric
Salt water
Oxidizing
Benzene
Gasoline
Alcohols
Ketones
Acetic
Toluol
Nitric
Acid
Plastic coated 1. Polyethylene 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 2 5 5 2 2 5 5 90
conduit or EMT -0.02 in. thick
2. Neoprene 3 4 4 2 4 3 4 5 5 5 5 2 5 1 5 4 1 1 5 5 73
-0.03 in. thick
3. Polyvinyl chloride 4 5 5 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 1 5 5 3 3 5 5 89
-0.025 in. thick
All-plastic conduit 1. Rigid polyvinyl 4 5 5 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 1 5 5 3 3 5 5 89
chloride
2. Flexible 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 2 5 5 2 2 5 5 90
polyethylene
Painted rigid 1. Phenolic 3 2 2 2 3 2 2 5 5 2 4 2 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 3 71
conduit or EMT air-drying enamel
systems
2. Chlorinated 3 2 2 2 3 2 2 5 5 4 3 2 5 3 5 5 4 4 3 2 68
NUMBER
REV. NO.
rubber lacquer
PAGE
DATE
3. Vinyl resin vanish 3 2 2 3 3 2 2 5 5 4 4 3 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 3 75
4. Mastic coating 3 3 2 2 3 3 3 5 5 4 4 3 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 3 77
17 OF 24
OCT 2001
2
E21-G01
Notes:
(1) Copper-free (< 0.5 percent copper) aluminum alloy
(2) Variety factor indicates the overall suitability of the particular raceway material for all the corrosive agents listed in the table
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 18 OF 24
Table III
The Electrolytic Potentials of the More Common Metals @ 25 °C
Referred to Hydrogen Electrode As Zero
ELECTRODE ELECTRODE
METAL POTENTIAL, METAL POTENTIAL,
VOLTS- VOLTS-
Protected end (cathodic on noble end) Hydrogen (H) -0.00 (ref)
Gold (Au) +1.36 Lead (Pb) -0.12
Platinum (Pt) +0.86 Tin (Sn) -0.14
Palladium (Pd) +0.82 Nickel (Nl) -0.23
Mercury (Hg) +0.798 Stainless steel (304)(2) -0.25
NUMBER
REV. NO.
Stainless steel, unpainted with 1. Grade 304 83 125 260 168
PAGE
DATE
connections and standard-type
2. Grade 316 88 125 350 194
fittings taped
19 OF 24
OCT 2001
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E21-G01
ENGINEERING STANDARD
TABLE IV (Continued)
Relative Costs of Various Types of Conduit Systems
(Fittings and Supports Included)
Painted black enameled conduit(4) 1. Phenolic air-drying enamel-2 coats 71 140 97 126
NUMBER
REV. NO.
2. Chlorinated rubber lacquer-2 coats 66 140 97 126
PAGE
DATE
3. Vinyl resin varnish-2 coats 75 140 97 126
4. Mastic coating-one coat 77 130 107 123
20 OF 24
OCT 2001
2
E21-G01
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 21 OF 24
TABLE IV (Continued)
Relative Costs of Various Types of Conduit Systems
(Fittings and Supports Included)
Notes:
(1) The unusual conditions prevailing in chemical plants pose a challenge to engineers who specify
electrical products. Other wiring methods than conduit raceway systems may measure up to the
general requirements of the electrical system in a specific installation and be less expensive.
Reference is made to the following:
(i) Installation of Mineral-Insulated Cable
(ii) Installation of Interlocked-Armor Cable
(iii) Installation of Metal-Sheathed Cable
(iv) Cable Installations in Trays
The materials and finishes used on these systems have to be highly resistant to corrosive agents
when exposed to aggressive elements (refer to Table II)
(2) The costs of various types of conduit systems covered in this standard, for example Types A, B,
C and D and using the same conduit material, will vary considerably from one type of installation to
another due to the different requirements for fittings, conduit terminations sealing requirements,
venting and draining. Usually, the least expensive installation may be made in a dry non hazardous
area, while that required for a combination corrosive and Class I, Division I, is the most expensive,
sometimes costing as much as 200 percent with equivalent raceway material. However, the relative
installed costs given provide an approximate evaluation and, in conjunction with Table II, a
determination of the long-range dependability of the material used.
(3) Flexible polyethylene plastic pipe is economical for underground installations. The material costs
are only about 60 percent that of galvanized rigid steel. This type is furnished in coils of 30.5 m or
more, up to 76 mm (3 in) size, and 6.1 m straight sections in the 100 mm and 150 mm (4 and 6
inches) sizes.
(4) Painting is usually effective in controlling corrosion. However, the conduit system has to be
repainted periodically depending upon the degree of exposure to corrosive fumes and agents. The
expense of maintenance, the probable creation of a hazardous condition, and the continually
increasing cost of labor make this program unattractive, since other conduit materials and finishes
offer equal or superior resistance to corrosion. As indicated, painting a black conduit installation
usually increases the installed costs about 25 percent. When other types of conduit are painted, the
installed costs will be increased by a similar percentage.
ENGINEERING STANDARD
TABLE V
Comparison of Wiring Methods
NUMBER
REV. NO.
nonmetallic-sheathed
PAGE
DATE
cable (SNM)
338 Service entrance (SE 3 4 2 4 3 No 3 3
and USE) cable
22 OF 24
OCT 2001
2
E21-G01
339 U G feeder (UF) cable 3 4 2 4 3 No 3 3
340 Power and control cable 2 4 2 4 2 No 2 1
(TC)
ENGINEERING STANDARD
TABLE V (Continued)
Comparison of Wiring Methods
NUMBER
REV. NO.
raceways
PAGE
DATE
362 Wireways 5 3 - 2 1 No 2 2
364 Busways 9 3 - 2 1 No 2 1
23 OF 24
OCT 2001
2
E21-G01
725 Power limited tray cable 2 5 2 4 2 No 2 1
(PLTC)
300 Plenum cable 5 1 - 2 1 No 3 4
NUMBER E21-G01
Wiring Systems Application REV. NO. 2
for Various Environmental Classifications DATE OCT 2001
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 24 OF 24
TABLE V (Continued)
Comparison of Wiring Methods
Notes:
(1) Numbers represent comparison; "1" indicates the best or least expensive, "2" the next best, etc.
Where numbers are not given, the method should not be used except where the materials are
corrosion resistant.
(2) Many of the wiring systems in Table V cannot be used in certain types of occupancies and under
specific installation conditions. See Table I for limitations.
(3) The addition of plastic or neoprene jacket to many of the above wiring methods, for example
interlock or corrugated armor cables, make them highly resistant to moisture and most corrosive
atmospheres.