Three Types of Electrical Wire: THHN, UFB, and Romex Wire
There are many types of electrical wire available for consumers, however, it’s easy to get confused by the different types. The most common types of electrical wire are THHN, Romex, and UFB wire. However, in order to understand which electrical wire will do the best job for a specific project, it’s best to know the…
Copper Wire Insulation
There are several different types of copper wire insulation and applications, making it challenging to know which one is right for your project. The three types of cable insulation primarily used are plastics, rubbers and fluoropolymers. Types of Copper Wire Insulation The insulating materials often used to cover copper wire fall into two classes —…
Why Romex Wiring Can’t be Used Outdoors
Romex© Outdoor Conduit Romex is a type of electrical wire used in various applications. While Romex is a useful electrical wire for many applications, it is not often used in outdoor settings, despite containing thermoplastic high heat-resistant nylon-coated (THHN) thermoplastic high water-resistant nylon-coated (THWN) wires. While THHN and THWN wires can be used in outdoor settings, they cannot be put directly…
What is Fire Alarm Cable? The Main Types & Uses
Updated on June 1, 2023 When disaster strikes, the systems designed to respond must be up to the challenge. They can’t have cables that melt at the first sign of heat or experience interruption in tough conditions. That’s why fire alarm wire is built tough, from materials like copper that can be trusted during these…
THHN, THWN and THW Acronym Explanations
Years ago, you could buy THHN, THWN, THW, THHW or THWN-2 wires, each one made for a specific installation, but now we use multi-rated THHN/THWN-2 as a universal building wire. THHN, THWN and THW are all types of single-conductor electrical wire used in homes and buildings to deliver power. Previously, each acronym was a completely different…
Welding Cable vs. THHN Electrical Wire
Whether you’re in the construction, automotive or electric business, you’ve likely witnessed the benefits of using welding cables and THHN wires for your projects. These small but mighty wiring options can supply power to your secondary control circuits, machinery and appliances. Wherever you need to supply or transfer power during your projects, welding cable and…
Types of Electrical Wire
Various electrical wire types are available, each with unique properties and applications. Whether you’re an electrician or a DIY enthusiast, understanding the characteristics of these wires helps ensure your electrical projects are safe, efficient and up to code. Join us as we discuss the types of electrical wire below. Electrical Wire Types Common types of wire include…
PVC vs. Rubber EPDM Jackets and Insulation
Assume you need four wires to power your connection. Running each wire individually would be the old-fashioned way, but now, manufacturers surround all four wires with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or rubber jacket for protection and ease of installation. These two options, rubber and PVC, have different benefits, making them appropriate for varying situations. Knowing the difference between these two outer layers can…
UL1007 vs UL1015
For some projects, you need to decide which wires work best for your specific application. Knowing the difference between UL1007 vs. UL1015 and the individual features they have can make completing your project straightforward and clear. Take a look at the differences between UL1007 vs. UL1015 hook-up wires for your next wiring needs. Which Projects…
Differences Between Common Hook-Up Wires
Hook-up wire is a single-conductor wire used in low-current and voltage applications. It’s available in multiple constructions with various conductors, insulations and jacket materials. Electricians often use hook-up wires in enclosed electronic equipment such as control panels, automobiles, meters, ovens, computers, electronics and appliances. Specific kinds are even suitable for military specifications. There are many…