Identification of Grounded Conductors

By: JADE Learning | May 23, 2013

Electrical Continuing Education.

Today John Hauck and David Burtt discuss the identification of grounded conductors according to the 2011 National Electrical Code. This is part 2 of a 3 part series on identifying conductors.

How are grounded conductors required to be identified?

200.6(A). In sizes No. 6 AWG and smaller, an insulated grounded conductor is identified by:

• A continuous white outer finish
• A continuous gray outer finish
• Three continuous white stripes along the conductor’s entire length on other than green insulation.

When can grounded conductors be taped at the terminations?

200.6(B). In sizes No. 4 AWG or larger, a grounded conductor can be identified by a distinctive white or gray marking at the terminations. The marking must encircle the conductor.

Are there special requirements when grounded conductors from different systems occupy the same raceway or enclosure?

Yes. 200.6(D). When grounded conductors of different systems are installed in the same raceway, cable, box, auxiliary gutter, or other type of enclosure, each grounded conductor must be identified by system. Usually the grounded conductor from a 120/208Y volt system is white and the grounded conductor from a 277/480Y volt system is gray.

Conductor Identification

What other questions or comments do you have about identifying grounded conductors? Share them in the comments below. Stay tuned for part 3 of this discussion on conductor identification.

About the Authors

John Hauck is an instructor in electrical technology at Long Beach City College, CA, and the recipient of the 2007 Excellence in Teaching Award from the California Community College Association of Occupational Educators.

David Burtt has been in the electrical trade since 1978. He has worked as an electrical contractor, maintenance electrician, shop supervisor, and electrical instructor, and has been teaching electrical continuing education courses on the National Electric Code since 1990. He is also the owner of JADE Learning.

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