When it comes to underground power distribution, one of the most common questions from contractors and buyers is: 'Is URD wire direct burial?' The short answer is yes, URD (Underground Residential Distribution) wire is specifically designed for direct burial applications.
In this article, we’ll explain what URD wire is, why it’s suitable for direct burial, what types are available, and how to choose the right cable for your underground project.
What Is URD Wire?
URD wire is a type of aluminum electrical cable used for secondary power distribution in residential, commercial, and light industrial areas. It is commonly run underground, either from transformers to buildings or between utility poles and service panels.
URD wire typically comes in multiple configurations, such as:
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Single Conductor URD Wire
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Duplex URD Cable (Two Conductors)
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Triplex URD Cable (Three Conductors)
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Quadruplex URD Cable (Four Conductors)
Each version is available in USE-2 rated XLPE insulation, making it suitable for both wet and dry locations, as well as direct burial in soil.
Is URD Wire Suitable for Direct Burial?
Yes, URD wire is direct burial rated. It is specifically built with thermoset cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation that can withstand underground conditions without needing additional conduit.
Key Features That Make URD Wire Direct Burial Ready:
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USE-2 rating (Underground Service Entrance)
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XLPE insulation for durability in soil and moisture
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Corrosion-resistant aluminum conductors
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Heat resistance up to 90°C
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UV, oil, chemical, and abrasion resistant
In short, if you're asking whether URD cable can be buried directly in the ground, the answer is a confident yes, provided it meets your local electrical code requirements.
Common Applications of Direct Burial URD Wire
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Residential underground power connections
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Mobile home park utilities
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Subdivisions and apartment complexes
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Commercial landscaping power supply
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Light industrial installations
For example, a 4/0-4/0-4/0-2/0 aluminum quadruplex URD cable is often used for underground feeder lines from a transformer to a main panel.
URD Wire vs. Other Underground Cables
| Cable Type | Direct Burial Rated? | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| URD Cable | Yes |
Underground distribution |
| THHN / THWN-2 |  No (requires conduit) |
Indoor wiring, in conduit underground |
| USE-2 (Single) | Yes |
Service entrance, feeders |
| SER / SEU Cable | No (not direct burial) |
Above-ground service entrance |
URD is the better choice when you want direct burial without the need for conduit – saving time and cost on trenching and materials.
Related Keywords You Might Be Searching For
If you're researching URD wire for your next project, you might also look for:
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'4/0 quadruplex URD aluminum direct burial'
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'quadruplex aluminum wire for underground use'
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'aluminum URD ampacity chart'
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'what is quadruplex URD cable'
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'triplex vs. quadruplex underground wire'
We cover all of these topics in our cable knowledge base. Check them out to make an informed decision.
Why Buy URD Direct Burial Cable from TOT Wire & Cable?
As a trusted URD cable supplier, we provide high-performance quadruplex, triplex, duplex, and single conductor URD cables with:
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Full UL, ICEA, and ASTM certifications
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Custom cutting and fast delivery
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Bulk pricing for contractors and distributors
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OEM support and export packaging
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Expert support on URD ampacity and sizing
Contact Us Today
Still unsure whether URD cable is the best fit for your direct burial project? Need help choosing between triplex or quadruplex URD? Our cable experts are here to help.
Contact TOT Wire & Cable for datasheets, price quotes, or technical consultation today.
Conclusion
So, is URD wire direct burial? Absolutely. Designed for underground use, URD wire offers reliable, cost-effective performance for secondary power distribution. Whether you're wiring a subdivision or upgrading a commercial site, URD wire saves time, reduces conduit costs, and meets electrical code standards for underground installations.
