Large quantities of cables through metal studs
#1
10-04-19, 06:00 PM
Large quantities of cables through metal studs
This is from an apartment renovation and I found there are bundles of cables ran through the metal stud without any bushing in multiple locations. Some studs are just cut 2/3 of way to make room of the cables.
Do they even make a bushing large enough for this?
There are also SER cables run through metal studs without bushing. Haven't seen bushing large enough for them either.
Also, cables are secured to the studs with electric tape. Is this considered an ok solution?
The load center is being replaced by electrician and will be inspected. I doubt the inspector will be ok with cables run through studs as in the picture.
Do they even make a bushing large enough for this?
There are also SER cables run through metal studs without bushing. Haven't seen bushing large enough for them either.
Also, cables are secured to the studs with electric tape. Is this considered an ok solution?
The load center is being replaced by electrician and will be inspected. I doubt the inspector will be ok with cables run through studs as in the picture.
#2
10-04-19, 06:08 PM
Forum Topic Moderator
#3
10-04-19, 06:36 PM
Changing entire cable is not an option here.
This apparently is how the place was built. There are multiple violations that were added on later, but that cut on stud under the load center appears to be original.
I don't deal with metal studs often and when I do, it was always MC or AC cables. I'm out of ideas on how to correct this without ripping everything out
Also, the demo crew destroyed multiple junction boxes when they took drywall down. Apparently they just ripped drywall out with outlets and switches still installed. Now I get to fix all of those
This apparently is how the place was built. There are multiple violations that were added on later, but that cut on stud under the load center appears to be original.
I don't deal with metal studs often and when I do, it was always MC or AC cables. I'm out of ideas on how to correct this without ripping everything out
Also, the demo crew destroyed multiple junction boxes when they took drywall down. Apparently they just ripped drywall out with outlets and switches still installed. Now I get to fix all of those
#4
10-04-19, 06:56 PM
Group Moderator
I doubt the inspector will be ok with cables run through studs as in the picture.
Are you expecting him to approve the cabling as it is ?
No way any type of NM installed like that will get a pass..... regardless of who or when it was installed.
Metal stud bushings
#5
10-04-19, 07:13 PM
The bushing PJ linked is only bushing I could find, which is too small for a large bundle of cables and SER cable.
The owner is saying just cover drywall back on and show the inspector only load center. LOL
This place was fire damaged (not electrical fire) and I'm pretty sure the inspector will be extra picky about anything that may cause a fire.
I wonder if there is a product that can be used as a sleeve.
Only other solution I can think of is installing the stud side ways alternating each sides of the wall so that the cable don't pass through the studs.
The owner is saying just cover drywall back on and show the inspector only load center. LOL
This place was fire damaged (not electrical fire) and I'm pretty sure the inspector will be extra picky about anything that may cause a fire.
I wonder if there is a product that can be used as a sleeve.
Only other solution I can think of is installing the stud side ways alternating each sides of the wall so that the cable don't pass through the studs.
#6
10-05-19, 10:45 AM
Member
Bushings from Greenlee vary from 7/8" to 1 11/32"
https://www.greenlee.com/us/en/metal-stud-bushings
I certainly hope this isn't a bid job.
https://www.greenlee.com/us/en/metal-stud-bushings
I certainly hope this isn't a bid job.
#7
10-05-19, 12:57 PM
You could make your own bushings with plastic edging like:
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=plastic+e...l_7xpz4vkq6k_e
You might check first with the inspector to see if that would be acceptable.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=plastic+e...l_7xpz4vkq6k_e
You might check first with the inspector to see if that would be acceptable.
PJmax voted this post useful.
#9
10-05-19, 06:09 PM
Group Moderator
Just to add on to 2john02458's post......... you'd need to use what we call caterpillar grommet material. It can be installed later. This product is specifically designed for holes in metal.... and especially round ones.... where the other solid type will just bunch up. This is a link from the page john left.
Caterpillar grommet
Caterpillar grommet
#10
10-05-19, 06:58 PM
I knew there is edge trim materials, but didn't realize I could use them on metal studs.
I guess anything that can cover sharp edges are fine. Right?
It is run through the concrete, but the hole is filled with insulation material.
Is it still allowed to keep as is or does it need to be replaced with fire block foam or caulk since the wall is open?
I guess anything that can cover sharp edges are fine. Right?
How is the white cable coming out of the floor run? It appears to be just in concrete.
Is it still allowed to keep as is or does it need to be replaced with fire block foam or caulk since the wall is open?
#11
10-06-19, 07:39 AM
Group Moderator
Is it still allowed to keep as is or does it need to be replaced with fire block foam or caulk since the wall is open?
