Code Change Summary: Revised language in 336.10(7) adds “raceways” and “enclosures” to the list of locations between which Type TC-ER cable may transition without continuous support.

SME commentary: In the 2026 NEC^®, Section 336.10(7) was modified to provide additional clarity regarding where Type TC-ER cable is permitted to transition without continuous support for a distance not exceeding 6 feet. The revised text now allows this cable transition between a cable tray, raceway, enclosure, or equipment and the utilization equipment or device(s) connected to the cable.

The 2023 NEC^® permitted Type TC-ER cable to be installed “between a cable tray and the utilization equipment or device”, provided certain conditions were met. While that language acknowledged the use of TC-ER cable for short unsupported runs, it did not fully recognize the wide variety of installation configurations found in many installations. In practice, TC-ER cable is often run from a cable tray into conduits (raceways) or directly into equipment enclosures mounted adjacent to the cable tray. The 2023 wording, however, could be read to limit the permitted transition strictly to unsupported cables between a “cable tray” and connected utilization equipment.

Public input for the 2026 cycle sought to resolve this limitation by broadening the permission to include cable trays, raceways, and enclosures as acceptable transition points. This recognizes that TC-ER cable can safely exit a cable tray, unsupported up to 6 feet, and enter a nearby raceway or enclosure, provided it remains protected from physical damage per 336.12 and mechanically supported to ensure the minimum bending radius is not exceeded as required in 336.24.

The new language aligns with how TC-ER cable is commonly used in many electrical installations such as motor control centers, process skids, and manufacturing lines. In these environments, it is common for TC-ER cable to leave the cable tray, enter a short piece of conduit or a terminal enclosure, and then continue to utilization equipment. By adding raceway and enclosure to the list, the NEC^® now matches field reality while maintaining the 6-foot limitation and the requirement for mechanical support at the transition point.

This revision also harmonizes with the fundamental concept that TC-ER cable can be run exposed where not subject to physical damage. The change does not expand the allowable exposure distance but clarifies the types of equipment or systems that may serve as the connection endpoints of that short transition.

This 2026 revision to 336.10(7) provides a clearer, more inclusive rule that better reflects real-world wiring methods. Installers can now confidently transition TC-ER cable between a cable tray, raceway, or enclosure and the utilization equipment it serves, ensuring compliance without over-restricting layout flexibility. The result is improved usability, reduced ambiguity, and consistent application of the rule across TC-ER installations.

Below is a preview of the NEC^®. See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2026 NEC^® edition of NFPA 70.

2023 Code Language:

336.10 Uses Permitted (in part). Type TC cable shall be permitted to be used as follows:

(7) Between a cable tray and the utilization equipment or devices, provided all of the following apply:

Exception to (7): Where not subject to physical damage, Type TC-ER shall be permitted to transition between cable trays and between cable trays and equipment or devices for a distance not to exceed 6 feet without continuous support. The cable shall be mechanically supported where exiting the cable tray to ensure that the minimum bending radius is not exceeded.

2026 Code Language:

336.10 Uses Permitted (in part). Type TC cable shall be permitted to be used as follows:

(7) Between a cable tray, raceway, or enclosure and the utilization equipment or devices, provided all of the following apply:

Exception to (7): Where not subject to physical damage, Type TC-ER shall be permitted to transition a distance not to exceed 6 feet without continuous support between a cable tray and the following:

(1) Cable tray

(2) Raceway

(3) Enclosure

(4) Equipment

Any cable transition shall be mechanically supported to ensure that the minimum bending radius is not exceeded.