User: Simpuller, Location: MO
Asked on: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 9:12 pm EDT
Answered on: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 9:13 pm EDT
Question: Is a BHub bonding?I have a Nema 3R breaker enclosure that's going to be my primary disconnect.It's a Q23225NRB, RB suffix for B-Hub connection of my service mast.Cut sheets are attached.It seems that as this panel is suitable for service entrance equipment and its expected connection is BHub, that BHubs would be bonding.The top entry is sized for max 2-1/2 in, so what would anybody do for bonding hub sizes other than 2-1/2 in.Any thoughts?
Okay, let's break down this question and analyze the documentation you've provided.
Understanding the Key Concepts Service Entrance Equipment (SEE)
The first point where power enters a building from the utility. This equipment must be suitable for service use and includes a means to disconnect all power.
NEMA 3R Enclosure
An enclosure designed for outdoor use and protects against rain, sleet, and ice formation.
B-Hub
A specific type of hub fitting used to connect conduit or cable to an enclosure. The "B" often refers to a particular manufacturer's specification or design.
Bonding
Electrically connecting non-current-carrying metal parts to create a low-impedance path for fault current. This is critical for safety, allowing overcurrent protection devices (breakers, fuses) to quickly trip and clear faults. The purpose of bonding is to minimize voltage differences between accessible metal parts.
Grounding
Connecting the electrical system to the earth (ground) for safety and stability.
Main Bonding Jumper (MBJ)
The connection between the grounded conductor (neutral) and the equipment grounding conductor (ground) at the service entrance. This connection creates a single point where the neutral and ground are tied together. This is typically only done at the service entrance.
Analyzing the Provided Documentation
Based on the attached cut sheets for the Q23225NRB, a few things are clear: Suitable for Service Entrance
The enclosure is explicitly listed as suitable for use as service entrance equipment.
B-Hub Ready
The "RB" suffix confirms it's configured with a B-Hub provision for top feed.
Hub Size Max 2.5"
The maximum hub size is confirmed as 2.5".
Addressing Your Questions1. Is a B-Hub bonding? Not necessarily, but likely in this application. A standard hub (without specific bonding features) just provides a mechanical connection. However, because this is a service entrance enclosure and because the RB is a B-Hub, it will make electrical connection with the enclosure. Service entrance equipment must be bonded properly.
Importance of Proper Installation
The bonding effectiveness depends on proper installation. The hub must be installed correctly and torqued to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure a good electrical connection. Any paint or coatings that would impede electrical contact between the hub, conduit, and enclosure must be removed.
Verify with Manufacturer
To be 100% certain, contact the manufacturer of the enclosure (Siemens) and specifically ask if the B-Hub connection in the Q23225NRB provides a Listed and Approved bonding connection. Provide them with the model number of the enclosure. Most likely this will be bonding; however, you can easily test to make sure you have continuity between the hub and the ground bar inside the enclosure.2.
The top entry is sized for max 2-1/2 in, so what would anybody do for bonding hub sizes other than 2-1/2 in? You wouldn't use a hub larger than 2-1/2" in this application. The enclosure is designed for that maximum size. If your conduit needs to be larger than 2-1/2", you'd need to use a different service entrance enclosure designed for a larger hub, or consider other conduit entry methods like a reducing bell and different fitting inside the enclosure.
For bonding of a larger conduit entering the enclosure, you would run a supplemental bonding jumper from the conduit to the ground bar inside the enclosure.
Important Considerations and Best Practices
NEC Requirements
Always adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC) and any local amendments. The NEC provides specific requirements for grounding and bonding of service entrance equipment (e.g., Article 250).
Main Bonding Jumper (MBJ)
Ensure that a properly sized Main Bonding Jumper (MBJ) is installed within the enclosure, connecting the neutral bus to the enclosure itself (and thus, to the grounding electrode system). The cut sheet diagram seems to imply the MBJ is part of the enclosure.
Grounding Electrode System
A proper grounding electrode system (ground rods, water pipe, etc.) must be connected to the grounding bus within the enclosure.
Torque Specifications
Use a calibrated torque wrench and tighten all connections (including hub and bonding screws) to the manufacturer's specified torque values. Over-tightening or under-tightening can compromise the connection.
Inspection
Have the installation inspected by a qualified electrical inspector to ensure compliance with codes and regulations.
Supplement with a Grounding Bushing
If you are unsure or if the situation demands it, use a grounding bushing or lug on the inside of the enclosure and connect it to the grounding busbar with a properly sized grounding conductor. This adds an extra layer of assurance for bonding.
In summary:Given the enclosure's intended use as service entrance equipment and the B-Hub design, it is likely that the B-Hub is intended to provide a bonding connection. However, verify with Siemens directly to be absolutely certain.* Proper installation is essential. If you have a larger conduit size, you must reduce it down to 2.5 inches to enter the hub, or look at supplemental bonding. Finally, always follow the NEC and local electrical codes, and have your installation inspected. Flag for review