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NEC 480VAC Outlet Disconnect?

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chuck87

Electrical
Jul 19, 2012
1
I am having a lot of trouble with this one:

The company I work for has multiple 480VAC receptacles around the building in our lab areas. We use them for multiple applications which include running motors, servo drive test panels, transformers, ect. They in a conduit “network” on the wall acting as regular wall receptacles without any disconnect means besides their breakers located in the warehouse area of the building.

What I have been tasked to do, is figure out if what we have is legal according to NEC. Do we need a disconnect on each of them, or is it just a good idea to have a disconnect? I know 430.109(f) says
“For a cord-and plug-connected motor, a horsepower-rated attachment plug and receptacle having ratings no less than the motor ratings shall be permitted to serve as the disconnecting means.”
The problem with that is we are not always running motors, we run a variety of different equipment, plus the fact that our connectors are just standard hubble plugs/receptacles, they are only marked with voltage phase and amp ratings.

I personally don't like the idea of plugging or un-plugging anything with 480 potential on it, loaded or not.

Any ideas? I can’t take another minute with my nose and fingers in the code book..
 
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