Branch circuits and feeder conductors shall not be installed in the same ___ with service conductors.

Branch circuits and feeder conductors must not be installed in the same raceway and cable as service conductors to ensure safety and minimize the risk of electrical faults. This separation is crucial because service conductors carry the load from the utility supply to the building, while branch circuits and feeders distribute that power to various outlets and appliances within the structure.

When these conductors are placed together, it can lead to issues such as overheating, increased electromagnetic interference, or the potential for a fault in the service conductor that could propagate to branch circuits and feeders, creating hazardous conditions. The National Electrical Code (NEC) emphasizes this requirement to enhance safety through proper separation, facilitating easier maintenance and troubleshooting of electrical systems. This practice also helps in minimizing the effects of voltage drop and ensuring that circuit breakers function correctly, as they are designed to protect specific circuits.

By understanding these principles, one can see that the combination of raceway and cable signifies a complete restriction on the installation of service conductors alongside branch and feeder conductors, thus affirming the importance of adherence to these guidelines in electrical installations.