[frangord]

I wish to light a trail 400' long. It will require 6 100watt lights and the ability to support a small 450-750 watt heater at the end of the run. I of course want to do this in the most economical fashion. I'm a doit yourselver and do not intend to have it inspected. I intend to do an areial rathter than burial system.

(1) what type of wire can I use. I was thinking of outdoor 12/3 uf wire or 12/3 cabtire. Do you have any suggestions?

(2) will 12/3 wire support 6 100watt bulbs and a small heater at the end of 400'

Thanks gord

[tkrussell]

If economical means practical,effective, and safe I would use #4 aluminum triplex cable, 3 wire, with 2 insulated and one bare ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced), the same as the utility company uses to feed a home overhead.

Any smaller wire will reduce the performance and effectiveness of incandescent lamps and a resistance heater, but will not cause any harm. Any motors will be greatly affected and damaged by excessive voltage drop.

The ACSR acts as the required steel messenger cable, and will act as the equipment ground.

Use the two insulated as the hot and neutral.

Once should already be identified by markings or ribs in the insulation, use this one as the neutral, and mark with white tape at each junction, outlet, or light fixture.

#4 is the size calculated to give a reasonable and acceptable amount of voltage drop at the end of a 400 foot run.

Using trees or any vegetation as support of cabling is not allowed by national electric codes, so having it inspected is out of the question. Here you take your own risk.

If this will be exposed to the public, serious consideration will be needed not doing this to code.