A 460V, 3-phase squirrel-cage motor is protected by a thermal overload relay. The motor has a full-load current of 50A. What is the minimum trip current required for the overload relay, according to 2026 NEC Article 430.52?
- A40A
- 45A
- C50A
- D55A
Exam tip
Ensure that the overload relay is properly set to trip at 125% of the motor's full-load current for adequate protection.
Why B is correct
According to 2026 NEC Article 430.52(C), the overload relay must be set to trip at not less than 125% of the motor's full-load current. Therefore, 125% of 50A is 62.5A. The closest standard trip current available is 45A, which is the correct answer.