SJO for LEDs

[cw4u]

Can SJO be used for LED fixtures in a permanent setting? Or is SO still required?

[Esoteric]

From my understanding, if you are doing a permanent installation (as defined by the NEC) then neither SJO or SO cord can be used.

You must run conduit with wire in it to a plug that the unit would then plug into.

But also from my understanding, permanent and temporary (which I believe are not even the words used by the NEC) is very loosely defined. We often do temporary installations where the units are not going to be touched for years if there are no problems with them.

But even then, you need to use SO cord.

[RickR]

The critical term - in codes and otherwise - is portable.

Things with cords and plugs are portable and therefore any particular arrangement is inherently temporary.

To answer your question: Nothing has changed in the NEC (which may not apply to you) regarding cord types. It doesn't care what you are powering with your cords, just that you are running power through them. What has changed is new requirements for personal and personnel protection. In short keep your cables away from the public.

[Esoteric]

Thanks, couldn't remember portable.

[Steve Vanciel]

Article 590 of the National Electrical Code deals with Temporary Installations. Most of it does not apply to "theatrical" type lighting applications. Article 520 is the relevant section to consult. 520.68 Conductors for Portables requires "listed extra-hard usage cords or cables" and there are several "SO" grades that meet this requirement. There is an exception permited for "Breakouts" to be "listed, hard usage (junior hard service) cords IF all of four conditions are met. [See 520.68 (A) (4) (1-4)]
There are many other requirements spelled out for many different aspects of an installation. This is why so many of us constantly recommend getting a qualified electrician involved.
A good rule of thumb is that anything that does not get rearranged often should have "fixed" wiring rather than portable. Ultimately, it will be the call of your friendly electrical inspector as to where the line is drawn. You have made friends with him/her haven't you?

SteveV, CEE
Orlando, FL

[Esoteric]

Hahaha... That is always the first thing you do Steve! You can't have a better friend than the city inspector. May be why we have never been red tagged.