What must be true about raceways or cables when conductors are installed without maintaining spacing for longer than 24 inches?

When conductors are installed in raceways or cables without maintaining the required spacing for a distance greater than 24 inches, it is essential to account for temperature effects. This situation can lead to increased heat generated by the conductors due to current flow, as closely bundled conductors can hinder proper heat dissipation. Therefore, temperature correction factors must be applied to ensure that the conductors operate within safe limits to prevent overheating, which can lead to insulation damage and pose safety hazards.

Oversizing conductors may not be a necessary requirement in all cases, and while specific applications could limit the use of certain cables or raceways, the primary concern when spacing is not maintained is about managing temperature. Hence, the focus is on the need for temperature correction rather than anything else related to the structural integrity or operational rules for low-voltage applications or prohibiting use altogether.