Okay, let's analyze whether your elevator controller circuit would be considered a branch circuit or a feeder according to the NEC (National Electrical Code). To do this, we need to understand the definitions of each.

Key Definitions (Simplified for our purpose)



Branch Circuit

The circuit conductors between the final overcurrent device protecting the circuit and the outlet(s). Think of it as the "last mile" delivering power to a single load (or multiple loads on the same circuit).

Feeder

All circuit conductors between the service equipment (or the source of a separately derived system) and the final branch-circuit overcurrent device. Think of it as the main power highway distributing power to multiple branch circuits.

Applying to Your Elevator Controller Circuit

To determine if your circuit is a branch or feeder, we need to consider the context of how your controller is wired in. Consider this question, how is the power brought into the controller cabinet? Here are two likely scenarios to consider:

Scenario 1: Direct Connection to an Overcurrent Protective Device (OCPD)

If the elevator controller is directly connected to an OCPD (circuit breaker or fuses) in a main distribution panel or panelboard, and this OCPD is rated to provide overload and short-circuit protection only for the elevator controller, then the conductors and equipment from that OCPD to the elevator controller would likely be classified as a Branch Circuit.

Scenario 2: Connection to a Distribution Point with Multiple Loads

If your elevator controller is connected to a distribution point where other equipment or branch circuits are supplied, then the conductors and equipment from that distribution point to the elevator controller's overcurrent protective device would likely be considered a Feeder.

Here's a more concrete way to think about it



If the circuit breaker feeding the elevator controller only protects the elevator controller, it's a branch circuit. If the circuit breaker feeding the elevator controller also protects other circuits or loads in addition to the elevator controller, the conductors from the power source to the elevator controller's branch-circuit overcurrent protective device is a feeder.Example

Imagine a panelboard labeled "Elevator Power Panel."

Branch Circuit

A 30A breaker in that panel directly feeds the elevator controller. Nothing else is connected to that 30A breaker.

Feeder

A 100A breaker in the main service panel feeds the "Elevator Power Panel." The conductors between the 100A breaker in the main service panel and the "Elevator Power Panel" are considered the Feeder. The circuits from the "Elevator Power Panel" to the individual elevator components could be branch circuits.

Important Considerations



Overcurrent Protection

The existence of an OCPD within the elevator controller cabinet itself doesn't automatically make the entire circuit a branch circuit. That OCPD is likely there to protect specific components within the controller from short circuits and overloads, not the entire elevator system. It is likely you need to bring in the power supply (whether it is a branch circuit or feeder) and feed a primary overcurrent protective device which protects the entire cabinet.

Motor Loads

Elevators are primarily motor-driven. Article 430 of the NEC deals with motors, motor circuits, and motor controllers. If the feeder is serving multiple elevators, there are additional considerations.*

Local Codes

Local building codes and electrical codes might have specific requirements for elevator circuits that go beyond the NEC. Always check with your local authorities.

In Summary:

Without knowing exactly how your elevator controller is wired into the power distribution system, it's impossible to give a definitive answer. However, by understanding the fundamental definitions of branch circuits and feeders, and considering the different scenarios, you can determine the correct classification for your specific installation.I recommend drawing a single line diagram of the system, identifying each component, and the OCPD's involved. This will greatly help to clarify whether you are dealing with a branch circuit or a feeder. Flag for review