What is the minimum wire bending space required at the top and bottom of a panelboard with three 3/0 AWG conductors?

The minimum wire bending space required at the top and bottom of a panelboard is determined by the size of the conductors being used. In this case, with three 3/0 AWG conductors, the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies that there should be adequate space for bending the wires without causing damage or straining the connections.

For conductors of this size, a common requirement is to have a minimum wire bending space of 8 inches at both the top and bottom. This space allowance ensures that there is enough room for the sheathing and insulation of the conductors, allowing them to bend without exceeding their minimum bend radius, which is critical for maintaining electrical integrity and preventing damage over time.

Thus, having 8 inches at both the top and bottom provides the necessary accommodation for three 3/0 AWG conductors, aligning with NEC guidelines and best practices in electrical installation.