Tap Rules in NEC Article 240-21

[Leadbetta]

Hi my name is Leadbetta, I just joined recently, and I was wondering if anyone could explain to me the difference b/w taps and services. For instance when does coming off an ocp device qualify as a tap or another service. I am in my 4th year of NEC class and we are really delving into taps. I am really hoping to understand taps and the restrictions of their feet.

 

[alehman]

A connection from an OCP is a feeder, branch circuit or tap. It is considered a tap if the conductor is not adequately protected by the OCP but, does comply with one or more of the exceptions listed in 240-21(b)-(m).

A service is a connection from a utility company, and has no OCP under the owner's control. See article 100 for definitions.