Installing Electric
Service-Entrance Systems

[lesson title]

SE Requirements: Installation Procedures

SE cable (Figure 1-19) has a flame-retardant, moisture-resistant covering. The neutral conductor (copper or aluminum) is twisted into a pigtail so that it can be clamped into the grounding system.

Figure 1-19. SE cable.

SE cable must be supported within 12 inches of the service head and all boxes, and then supported every 4 1/2 feet thereafter. When a service head is unavailable an expedient service head can be made. The SE cable is bent into a gooseneck and secured with tape (Figure 1-20). Service heads are located above the service drop to prevent water from entering the cable run.

Figure 1-20. Expedient head.

When installed as a service mast, an SE using rigid conduit provides protection for the conductors and a strong contact point for the service drop. A service-mast system is used when greater overhead roof clearance is needed (Figure 1-21).

Figure 1-21. Service mast using rigid conduct.

To provide adequate strength of the service mast, supports must be attached to the structure at critical points. A typical arrangement for supports is shown in Figure 1-22.

Figure 1-22. Mast supports.

The conductors are pulled through the rigid conduit to provide total protection of the SE from the service head into the power panel (Figure 1-23). A well-built service mast will hold up under all types of weather.

Figure 1-23. Service mast.

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