Aluminum MC Cable is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective metal-clad cable ideal for commercial and industrial applications. Featuring aluminum interlocked armor and copper conductors, it provides reliable electrical performance, easy installation, and durability in wet or corrosive environments. Suitable for a variety of wiring needs, it offers a practical solution for reducing labor and material costs.
Key Features
- Lightweight Design: Approximately 50% lighter than steel armor MC cable, reducing installation effort
- Corrosion Resistant: Aluminum armor naturally resists rust and corrosion in wet environments
- Cost-Effective: Lower material and shipping costs compared to steel armor alternatives
- Easy Installation: Reduced weight facilitates easier pulling through conduits and cable trays
- Flexible Construction: Suitable for bends and complex routing
- Code Compliant: Meets all NEC grounding and safety requirements
Common Applications
- Office buildings and commercial complexes
- Manufacturing facilities and warehouses
- Hospitals and healthcare installations
- Educational institutions and schools
- Retail stores and shopping centers
- Data centers and telecommunications facilities
- Coastal buildings where corrosion resistance is critical
- Long horizontal runs where weight reduction is beneficial
- Cable tray installations in industrial plants
Construction Details
- Conductors: Soft drawn copper with THHN/THWN-2 insulation for maximum flexibility and performance
- Armor: Interlocked aluminum strip providing mechanical protection and grounding path
- Grounding: Separate aluminum grounding/bonding conductor ensuring reliable electrical continuity
- Jacket: Optional PVC outer jacket for enhanced environmental protection
Available Configurations
- 2-Conductor: 14 AWG through 750 MCM
- 3-Conductor: 14 AWG through 500 MCM
- 4-Conductor: 14 AWG through 350 MCM
- Multi-Conductor: Custom configurations available
Installation Advantages
- Reduced Labor Costs: Lighter weight means faster installation and less fatigue for installers
- Flexible Routing: Easy to navigate through tight spaces and around obstacles
- Cable Tray Compatibility: Suitable for ladder and solid bottom cable trays
- Direct Mounting: Can be secured directly to structural elements with appropriate clamps
Why Choose Aluminum MC Cable?
- Performance: Delivers the same electrical performance as steel armor MC cable with added corrosion resistance
- Durability: Aluminum armor provides long-term protection in challenging environments
- Economy: Lower overall installed cost through reduced material and labor expenses
- Reliability: Proven track record in thousands of commercial and industrial installations
FAQs
Q: Is aluminum MC cable as strong as steel armor MC cable?
A: While aluminum is lighter, it offers adequate mechanical protection for most commercial applications. For areas requiring maximum impact resistance, steel armor may be preferred.
Q: Can aluminum MC cable be used in wet locations?
A: Yes, when properly rated (such as THWN-2 conductors) and installed according to NEC requirements, aluminum MC cable is suitable for wet locations.
Q: What's the weight difference compared to steel armor?
A: Aluminum MC cable is approximately 50% lighter than equivalent steel armor cable, significantly reducing installation effort and shipping costs.
Q: Is special tooling required for termination?
A: No, aluminum MC cable uses standard MC cable fittings and termination methods. Standard cable cutters and stripping tools are effective.
Q: Where should I avoid using aluminum MC cable?
A: Avoid areas with high mechanical stress, severe impact potential, or where maximum armor strength is required for safety reasons.
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