Sectioned equipment grounding conductors smaller than 1/0 AWG are permitted in multiconductor cables if the combined circular mil area complies with a specified requirement. What is the size threshold?

• A. 1/0 AWG
• B. 2/0 AWG
• C. 3/0 AWG
• D. 4 AWG

Answer: (A)

The rule hinges on the total cross-sectional area of the grounding path. When multiple smaller equipment grounding conductors are used inside a multiconductor cable, their combined cross-sectional area, measured in circular mils, must be at least the area of a 1/0 AWG conductor. In practical terms, the threshold is the circular mil area of 1/0 AWG (about 105,000 cmil). This ensures the grounding path can carry fault current effectively, even though the individual conductors are smaller. If the sum of the circular mils meets or exceeds that value, the sectioned EGC arrangement is allowed; if not, a larger or single conductor would be required.