An insulated grounded conductor which is what gauge or below should be identified by a continuous white or gray outer finish?

The identification of an insulated grounded conductor is critical for safety and compliance with electrical codes. In the National Electrical Code (NEC), a continuous white or gray outer finish is specifically designated for insulated grounded conductors that are sized to be appropriate for the application.

When it comes to sizing, the rule is that conductors of 6 AWG (or smaller) must be identified with this color coding. A 6 AWG conductor is commonly used for grounding in various low voltage communication systems. This designation ensures that anyone working with or inspecting the installation can easily identify the grounded conductor, reducing the risk of accidental contact with live wires or improper connections that could lead to electrical faults.

The other wire gauges mentioned—4 AWG, 8 AWG, and 10 AWG—do not comply with this specific requirement for identification. While they can be used in various applications, only conductors 6 AWG or smaller are mandated to have the continuous white or gray finish for insulated grounded conductors, making it essential for safety and adherence to standards in low voltage communication system installations.