Electrical Cable Types List: A Comprehensive Guide

Electricians and homeowners alike should be familiar with the different types of electrical cables available on the market. Understanding the various types of cables and their appropriate uses can help ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with electrical codes in Buffalo, NY, and beyond. This guide provides an overview of common electrical cable types and their typical applications.

Common Electrical Cable Types

1. Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable (NM): Often referred to as Romex, NM cable is one of the most common types used in residential wiring. It consists of two or more insulated conductors and a bare ground wire, all encased in a flexible plastic sheath. NM cable is suitable for indoor use in dry locations.Uses: Non-metallic sheathed cable, commonly known as Romex, is widely used for residential indoor wiring, such as outlets, light fixtures, and switches. It is suitable for dry, protected environments like walls and ceilings. This type of cable should not be exposed to moisture or direct sunlight.

2. Underground Feeder Cable (UF): Similar to NM cable, UF cable is designed for outdoor use and can be buried directly underground. It has a more robust outer jacket to withstand exposure to moisture and sunlight.

Uses: UF cable is designed for outdoor use and can be buried directly in the ground without additional protection. It is commonly used for running power to outdoor lighting, garden sheds, garages, or other outbuildings. Its robust jacket protects the cable from moisture, sunlight, and other environmental factors.

3. Armored Cable (AC): Also known as BX or flexible metal conduit, AC cable features insulated conductors wrapped in a flexible metal jacket. It's commonly used in older homes and can provide some protection against physical damage.Uses: Armored cable, also known as BX or flexible metal conduit, is primarily used for indoor wiring in residential and commercial settings. The metal armor provides physical protection for the conductors, making it suitable for use in areas where the cable may be at risk of damage, such as unfinished basements or utility rooms.

4. Metal-Clad Cable (MC): MC cable features insulated conductors wrapped in a metal armor similar to AC cable but with a thicker metal sheath for added durability. It's used in both commercial and residential settings where extra protection is needed.Uses: Metal-clad cable is commonly used in commercial and industrial settings where additional durability and protection against physical damage are required. It is often installed in areas where the cable may be exposed to potential hazards, such as in drop ceilings, crawl spaces, or outdoor lighting fixtures.

5. Coaxial Cable: Often used for telecommunications and data transmission, coaxial cable consists of a central conductor surrounded by insulation, shielding, and an outer jacket. It's commonly used for cable TV and internet connections.Uses: Coaxial cable is primarily used for transmitting high-frequency signals for cable TV, internet, and other telecommunications applications. It provides excellent shielding against electromagnetic interference and can carry data over long distances without signal loss.

6. Fiber Optic Cable: This cable transmits data using light rather than electricity. It consists of thin strands of glass or plastic fiber encased in protective layers. Fiber optic cables offer high-speed data transmission and are commonly used for internet and telecommunications.Uses: Fiber optic cable is used for high-speed data transmission in telecommunications, internet connections, and cable TV networks. It uses light to transmit data over thin strands of glass or plastic fiber, offering superior speed and bandwidth compared to traditional copper cables.

7. Thermoplastic High-Heat Resistant Nylon-Coated (THHN) Cable: THHN cable features a single conductor insulated with thermoplastic material and covered with a nylon coating for heat and moisture resistance. It's commonly used in conduit systems for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.Uses: THHN cable is commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial wiring projects. It is typically installed in conduit systems for branch circuit wiring and feeder circuits. The thermoplastic and nylon coatings provide heat and moisture resistance, making it suitable for a variety of environments.

8. Service-Entrance Cable (SE): SE cable is used to connect a home to the utility power supply. It consists of insulated conductors with a weather-resistant jacket, designed to withstand outdoor exposure.Uses: Service-entrance cable is used to connect a home's electrical system to the utility power supply. This cable is designed to handle the high currents associated with the main electrical service. It is commonly used for overhead or underground connections from the power pole or transformer to the electrical panel.

9. Flat Cable: Flat cable consists of multiple conductors arranged in a flat, parallel configuration. It is used in applications where space is limited, such as under carpets or in small conduits.Uses: Flat cable, also known as ribbon cable, is used in applications where space is limited. Its thin, flat design allows it to be run under carpets, through small conduits, or in other tight spaces. It is often used for low-voltage wiring applications, such as in audio and video systems or control panels.

10. Control Cable: Control cables are designed for use in automation, control systems, and machinery. They typically feature multiple insulated conductors and shielding for protection against electrical interference.Uses: Control cables are used in automation, control systems, and machinery to transmit signals and power to various components. They often feature multiple insulated conductors and shielding to protect against electrical interference. These cables are commonly used in industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants and process control systems.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of electrical cables and their appropriate uses is essential for safe and efficient electrical work in Buffalo, NY. Whether you're a professional electrician or a homeowner tackling a DIY project, knowing which cables to use for specific applications can help you achieve optimal performance and safety. Always consult a licensed electrician or local electrical codes for guidance on proper cable selection and