Information About XLP USE Building Wire

RHH/RHW-2 XLP/ USE Overview

XLP USE building wire is an underground service entrance cable. It has excellent resistance to compression. XLP USE cable is oil and gas resistant. In addition, the black USE cable is resistant to sunlight. The underground service entrance cable is ideally suited for applications in industrial environments where water resistance is required. XLP USE cables can be used as RHH and RHW-2 in wet and dry industrial environments. XLP USE building cables are mainly used for the distribution of underground services. USE-2 cables are rated at 600V.

Features of RHH/RHW-2 XLP/USE

XLP USE building wire is commonly referred to as RHH/RHW, which indicates that it meets UL Standard 854 for underground service entrance cables. RHW is used for buried underground service wire. The letters of the name "RHW" represent the different characteristics of the cable.

The letter "R" represents the rubber installation of the cable. Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulates this type of cable. It makes it resistant to extreme heat, sunlight, and moisture. In addition to rubber, RHW cables can also contain other types of neoprene insulation. The letter "H" indicates heat resistance up to 75°C. The "W" stands for water resistance, indicating that the cable can be placed in water. RHW-2 is a subtype of RHW cable that has a higher 90°C heat resistance.

For most characteristics, RHH is an underground service cable similar to RHW/RHW-2. The "HH" in the name means it has a high heat resistance of 90°C. Unfortunately, RHH cables are not waterproof. Therefore, they are only suitable for dry environments.

RHH or RHW-2 or USE-2 types can be used in different ways according to the specifications provided in the National Electrical Code. When the cable is used as XLP USE-2 aluminum building wire, it is designed for direct burial at temperatures up to 90°C. When used as RHH, the maximum temperature remains the same, but the location should be completely dry. As with RHW-2, this cable is suitable for both wet and dry locations.

XLP USE-2 Aluminum Building Wire with XLP USE-2 Copper Conductor

XLP USE is sold with both aluminum and copper conductors. Today, XLP USE-2 copper wire is more popular than XLP USE-2 aluminum wire. However, the latter is sold at a lower price than the XLP USE-2 copper version. XLP USE-2 aluminum wire carries less power and typically has a higher impedance. The price difference can be used as a criterion for choosing aluminum or copper.

There is no reason to suggest that XLP USE-2 copper conductors are superior to aluminum conductors, as both have advantages and disadvantages. Copper cables do not require large conduits and require less insulation. XLP USE-2 aluminum building wire has a larger diameter than its copper counterpart, which may be a disadvantage in some cases. Aluminum wire is more flexible, while copper wire is more energy efficient. Although there are subtle differences in the performance of aluminum and copper wire, both materials are effectively used for underground service entrance cables. You can choose the right cable for your project based on your specifications.

XLP USE cables perform well in the specific application range for which they are designed. Whether you choose the aluminum or copper version, excellent performance is guaranteed. The product is suitable for industrial, residential, and commercial applications.