Avoid Confusion about NFPA-79

Confusion abounds about the “new” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) regulations pertaining to UL-recognized (AWM style) cable. Long after the practice became widespread, inspectors became aware of the ubiquitous use of AWM (Appliance Wiring Material) style cables in machine interconnecting sensors, actuators, switches and other components – often as part of premolded connector assemblies. The 2007 change to the NFPA-79 electrical code states that AWM-style single-conductor wire or multi-conductor cable is not permitted on machinery unless it is part of a UL-listed assembly. In other words, machine wiring requires UL-listed cable. Clearly, UL-listed cable has been available for many years. So the real question is which UL listing is appropriate for particular applications? Herein lies the confusion – speculating about the intent of the code change. Contact Northwire for information and samples.