How many means of securement are required for Type AC cable where it is installed on or across framing members?

For Type AC cable, the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies that it must be secured properly to ensure safety and compliance with electrical standards. When installing this type of cable on or across framing members, the code usually mandates that it must be secured at intervals not exceeding a specified distance, as well as at both ends of the cable run.

The requirement for three means of securement is intended to prevent sagging, damage, and potential hazards resulting from improper installation. By ensuring that Type AC cable is secured at three points — typically one at each end and one in the middle — the installation maintains structural integrity and minimizes the risk of mechanical stress that could affect the conductors over time.

In effect, this level of securement provides a balance between flexibility for installation and safety standards that adhere to best practices in electrical work. The rationale behind this requirement is to enhance the safety of the installation and ensure that the cables stay in position throughout their use.