Goto Mingda to know more.
Electrical cable options vary widely, with unique types used in specific applications. Therefore, choosing the right cable type is one of the essential tasks installers must take on before initiating a project. Romex and MC cabling are two types of cables that may be commonly used, especially in residential applications. While both are approved for use in residential applications by National Electrical Code (NEC) regulations, these cables each have unique features to consider for installation.
When exploring Romex vs MC cable differences, its crucial to consider factors like usability, safety, and cost-effectiveness. This comparison will guide you through each aspect to help you make an informed decision.
MC is short for metal-clad, and this type of cable is sheathed with a metallic coating. MC cable is defined as an assembly of one or more insulated circuits, often enclosed with an armor of metal tape or a metallic sheath. The most popular MC cables today feature aluminum interlocked armor.
MC cable was originally developed in the early s by Edwin Greenfield. Also called metallic sheathed cable, armored cable (AC) or BX cable, MC cable was one of the first cable types developed for both commercial and residential applications. It is still commonly used today in residential, commercial and industrial building construction. Some of the unique features of MC cable include:
In addition to traditional MC cable, several varieties of MC cable are available to suit the needs of unique applications. One example is MC-HL cable, which is designed for use in hazardous locations and features vapor-tight sheathing.
MC cable has been a popular option for a wide range of commercial, residential and industrial applications, especially those that are looking for all-in-one, cost-effective options. Some of the MC cable advantages include the following:
These benefits have made MC cable a popular choice for a wide range of applications, including indoor, outdoor, underground and embedded installations.
Buy MC Cable Here
Romex is the trade name for a type of electrical cable that has non-metallic sheathing. Produced by Southwire, this electrical wire is one of the most common types of wire used in indoor residential applications. Also called NM cable or NMC, this type of cable is a much more recent development compared to MC cable, used primarily within the last 40 years. This wire is also called SIMpull, which is another trademark of Southwire referring to the jacketing used on Romex wires.
The following features define Romex cables:
Like MC cable, Romex is available in multiple varieties for unique applications. Depending on how much power needs to be run, various sizes of Romex wire are available, with the most popular sizes being 14 AWG, 12 AWG, and 10 AWG.
Romex cable is a common choice in many residential installations, especially for branch wiring. Romex NM-B is the type of wire used for these types of applications. Some of the unique benefits of Romex cable include:
These features make Romex a useful wire for interior wiring applications. Common examples include interior wall wiring, especially for lighting and appliances.
Buy Romex Wire Here
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Aluminum Conductor MC Cable. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
The primary difference when comparing Romex wire versus MC cable is the sheathing. MC cable has a metal casing, while Romex has a non-metallic sheath. While this is a core distinction between the two cable types, it leads to a range of differences relating to the handling, installation and safety considerations of each type of cable. These differences include the following:
While the NEC accepts both of these cable types, the differences between these cables must be considered to ensure the safety and longevity of an installation.
The benefits and differences between Romex and MC cables highlight the differing uses of these cables. But how do you choose between one or the other for an application?
Consider these factors when choosing between MC and Romex:
Romex can be installed indoors with no conduit in certain applications. However, using MC cable in most situations requiring a conduit is often easier and more cost-effective. MC cable has built-in protection, so it can be run indoors without a conduit.
Both Romex and MC cable can be run indoors. If youre looking for an outdoor installation, your options are more limited. Romex provides limited protection against the elements and damage, so it should never be used outside. One alternative is an underground feeder (UF-B) cable, which is similar to Romex but offers more protection for outdoor and underground applications so it can be run without a conduit. Otherwise, you can choose MC cable, which provides sufficient protection and function in outdoor and indoor applications.
Romex should never be installed underground the only NM cable that can be installed in this way is a UF-B cable. MC cable can be installed underground as long as it is run through a conduit to prevent decay. For above-ground applications, MC cable can be installed without a conduit.
For indoor applications, Romex must be installed in an enclosed space. You might install it within a wall, inside a ceiling or under a floor. Depending on the applications needs, this may be done with or without conduit. However, the Romex wire must be run through a conduit if the installation is out in the open. MC conduit does not require these considerations and can be installed in enclosed or open spaces.
In addition to these considerations, make sure you comply with the NEC first before you initiate a wiring project. Looking to those codes can help guide your choice in wiring and save you trouble in the long run.
If youre looking for MC Cable or Romex for your next installation, Wesbell has what you need.
We carry a wide range of Romex wire, all sourced from the most reliable manufacturers in the industry. We buy from manufacturers like Southwire, meaning we sell quality products directly from the source. We are also able to provide these products at the lowest price. Our offerings include popular sizes like 14 AWG, 12 AWG and 10 AWG, but we carry everything up to 2 AWG. All of our wires are color-coded according to size, but you can also request specific colors for orders of 50,000 feet or more.
As for our copper MC cable offerings, Wesbell Electronics offers a range of sizes and configurations to meet the needs of practically any application. We stock copper MC Cable AWG sizes 14 through 2. Each size comes with two to four conductors and an additional ground wire. We also carry cables made of solid, stranded and bare copper to meet unique application needs.
With any of our cable offerings, you can purchase by the foot to get any length of cable you need for your project.
For over 30 years, Wesbell has been dedicated to providing quality bulk wire, cable and tubing products. We offer high-quality Romex wire and copper MC cables in various sizes and configurations to meet your unique needs. We can also save you time with assembly and processing services, including cutting, stripping and twisting. Were an ISO : and ISO : certified company featuring team of expert technicians. You can trust Wesbell to provide the quality products and services you need to save time and money on your next project.
Browse our products to learn more about our Romex and MC cable options, or contact us today!
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit BS Cable.