What is the minimum size EGC permitted when using nontime-delay fuses for a 1 hp motor fed from a 120/240-V panel?

In the context of electrical installations, the Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC) is essential for ensuring safety by providing a reliable path for fault current. When determining the minimum size of the EGC required for a specific application, the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides clear guidelines that must be followed.

For a 1 hp motor fed from a 120/240-V panel, and when using nontime-delay fuses, the relevant section of the NEC specifies that the minimum size of the EGC can depend on the size of the circuit conductors supplying the motor and the method of overcurrent protection. The NEC tables indicate that for motors utilizing a maximum of 20 amps and fuses that are not time-delay, you can use a smaller conducting size.

In this case, a 10 AWG wire is the correct size for the EGC based on the NEC's requirements for motors that use nontime-delay fuses. The guidelines ensure proper grounding and safety for the motor circuit by specifying that the EGC must adequately withstand the potential ground fault currents without excessive voltage drop, ensuring a quick response to faults.

Thus, selecting 10 AWG as the minimum size for the EGC in this scenario aligns with safety standards by