NFPA 70 (NEC) Article 430: Understanding Motors, Motor Circuits, & Controllers

This webinar discusses the NEC requirements as it applies to electric motors.

Electric motors are an integral part of every rotating machinery in both commercial and industrial applications. From HVAC systems to conveyor belts, elevators, pumps, machine presses, robots, and pretty much every rotary application that you can think of.

The first thing that comes to our mind is the prime mover that powers the equipment; which in most cases is an electric motor. The size, form factors, voltage, current, horsepower, output efficiencies, and controllers vary by the type of motor used in specific applications. Invariable use of these motors in varied commercial and industrial applications combined with high up-time demands and production pressures pose a higher risk for personnel working to serve their maintenance.

NFPA 70’s National Electric Code (NEC) is an enforceable standard by Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) that defines the specific requirements for motors in Article 430. This section defines the general requirements for motors, conductor sizes, ampacities, protection requirements, and several other considerations. This webinar will discuss the NEC requirements as it applies to electric motors.

Learning objectives:

  • To have a thorough understanding of Article 430 in the National Electrical Code (NEC).
  • To know when to use nameplate amps versus table amps when calculating motor circuits and their components.
  • Learn how to determine the minimum ampacity for both motor branch circuits and feeder conductors.
  • Learn the difference between motor overload protection, motor short-circuit, and ground-fault protection.

Presenter: Charles R. Miller & Bhanu Srilla, Director of Technical Marketing. Charles Miller is a master electrician, business owner, author, educator, and talk-show host.