250 MCM 3C Direct Burial Aluminum MC Cable with Bare Ground (PVC Jacketed)

Parent SKU :  MCA250-3JKT

SKU :  MCA250-3JKT-250

3 CONDUCTOR + GROUND • ALUMINUM INTERLOCKED ARMOR • PVC JACKET • 600V
Wire Size 250 MCM
Conductor Material Aluminum
Conductor Type Stranded
Outer Diameter 1.91 in.
Conductor Count 3
Voltage Rating 600V
Ampacity Rating 230
Weight per Foot 1.41 lb

Get Product Details

Get Product Details

"Engineered for maximum power capacity and tough underground environments, 250 MCM 3-Conductor Direct Burial Aluminum MC Cable delivers complete feeder protection without the added labor or expense of installing underground conduit.

This heavy-duty cable features three 250 MCM compact-stranded aluminum conductors and one #2 AWG aluminum ground conductor, protected by an interlocked aluminum armor and covered in a rugged, moisture-proof, UV-resistant PVC outer jacket. Fully approved per NEC Article 330 for direct earth burial, wet locations, and cable tray applications, it is the ultimate cost-effective solution for 200A–250A commercial service distribution, industrial subpanels, and utility power runs."

Key Features & Benefits: 250 MCM-3C Direct Burial Alum MC Cable + Ground

  • Direct Burial Approved (No Conduit Required): The extruded PVC outer jacket isolates the interlocked aluminum armor from moisture, soil chemicals, and ground rot, allowing you to lay cable directly into open trenches.

  • High-Capacity 250 MCM Layout: Features three 250 MCM phase conductors and one #1 AWG bare ground—ideal for commercial main service entrances, large industrial subpanels, and high-amp machinery feeds.

  • Compact Stranded AA-8000 Aluminum: Built with lightweight AA-8000 series aluminum alloy that reduces overall cable diameter, making it easier to pull through tight bends without sacrificing ampacity.

  • Superior Mechanical Armor: The flexible interlocked aluminum armor shields internal wires from soil shifts, sharp rocks, crushed backfill, and physical impacts during installation.

  • Sunlight & Flame Resistant: Designed to handle direct exposure to sunlight, wet locations, and indoor/outdoor transitions seamlessly.

Technical Specifications: 250 MCM 3 Conductor Direct Burial Alum MC Cable

  • Conductor Size: 250 MCM (kcmil)

  • Number of Power Conductors: 3

  • Conductor Material: AA-8000 Series Compact Stranded Aluminum Alloy

  • Ground Wire Size: 2 AWG Bare Aluminum

  • Phase Colors (240V ) : Black, White, Red 

  • Insulation Type: XLPE / XHHW-2

  • Armor Type: AIA (Aluminum Interlocked Armor)

  • Protective Outer Jacket: PVC - Black (Sunlight & Moisture Resistant)

  • Voltage Rating: 600 Volts

  • Temperature Rating: -40°C to 90°C

  • Amp Rating (@ 75°C - NEC): 205 Amps

  • Amp Rating (@ 90°C - NEC): 230 Amps

  • Insulation Thickness: 0.065 inches

  • Jacket Thickness: 0.060 inches

  • Approximate Nominal Outer Diameter: 1.91 inches

  • Approximate Net Weight: 1,410 lbs per 1,000 ft

  • Minimum Bending Radius: 13.37 inches (Calculated as 7x Diameter Over Jacket)

  • Compliance Standards: UL 44, UL 1569 (Type MC), NEMA WC70 / ICEA S-95-658, IEEE 1202, ASTM B800 & B801, NEC 518.4, NEC 520.5, NEC 645.5, and NEC 300.22.

Common 250 MCM-3 Alum MC Cable PVC Jacket Applications

  • Main Commercial Feeders & Subpanels: Delivering high-capacity power from utility disconnects to 200A–250A commercial distribution boards and industrial subpanels.

  • Industrial & Utility Facility Power: Routing heavy 3-phase power across manufacturing facilities, chemical plants, wastewater facilities, and industrial job sites.

  • Underground Distribution: Running direct-buried main feeders between separate commercial buildings, agricultural complexes, and heavy machinery workshops.

Ordering & Fulfillment

  • Cut to Length: Sold by the foot or in custom master reel quantities to match your exact trench footprint and minimize scrap.

  • Fast Processing: Ships directly from closest regional distribution hubs with stock to guarantee minimal transit times and reduced freight costs.

  • Submittal Assistance: Need cut sheets or manufacturer technical data sheets for engineering approval? Call our sales team directly at 833-268-8644 for immediate jobsite support.


Technical Note: To prevent structural degradation from galvanic corrosion, installers must utilize dual-rated AL7CU or AL9CU mechanical compression lugs or mechanical split-bolts when joining this aluminum cable to copper busbars or breaker terminals. Penetrox or similar antioxidant joint compound must be thoroughly applied to all bare aluminum conductors before final structural torquing. While the PVC jacket isolates the interior armor against direct soil or chemical contact, minimum trench depth profiles must strictly comply with NEC Article 300.5 tables (typically requiring 24 inches of earth cover for direct-buried cables not under concrete paths, or 18 inches beneath standard structural landscapes).

DISCLAIMER: The technical information provided is for general reference only. Large-scale high-voltage feeder systems and underground distribution paths must strictly adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC), local electrical building enforcement, and relevant safety parameters. Always cross-reference the official product submittal data sheet from the chosen manufacturer prior to finalizing structural configurations or executing structural cuts.

See Full Specifications

See Full Specifications

Physical Specifications

Wire Size (AWG/MCM) 250 MCM
Conductor Material Aluminum
Conductor Type Stranded
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) 1.91 in.
Jacket Type PVC
Conductor Count 3
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (XLPE) Cross-Linked Polyethylene
UL Listing Numbers UL 44, UL 1569

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600V
Ampacity Rating 230
Direct Burial Rating Yes
Submersible No
Sunlight Resistance Rating Yes
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards UL 44, 83, 1569 for Type MC Cable for CT Use
NEMA WC-70/ICEA S-95-658
IEEEE 1202 70, 000 BTU/HR Vertical Tray Flame Test
ASTM B800 & B801
NEC 518.4, NEC 520.5, NEC 645.5, and NEC 300.22 for environmental air-handling spaces.
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction. **Ampacities are based on NEC Table 310.15(B)(16), and show the allowable Ampacities of three current carrying insulated conductors, in a raceway, cable, or earth based on ambient temperature of 30°C (86°F).

Usage & Installation

Primary ApplicationsService entrance conductors, Feeders, Branch circuits, Power, lighting, control, and signal circuits
Common Uses
  • Branch
  • feeder and service power distribution in commercial
  • industrial
  • and multi-residential buildings
  • power
  • lighting
  • control and signal circuits.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 1.41 lb

Shipping and Returns

Shipping and Returns

General Shipping Information

In-stock orders placed before 3pm EST typically ship within 1-2 business days. Our business days are Monday through Friday; we do not process orders on Saturday, Sunday, or major US Holidays.

You will receive an e-mail with a tracking number within 1-2 business days from the time its shipped. You will also be able to view your order status and tracking numbers in your account order history.

Expedited Shipping

Expedited shipments are delivered Monday-Friday except on US Holidays. The order must be placed before 12pm CST to ship same day ( Mon-Fri Only).

Returns

You have 30 days from the day you receive the item to contact us for a return. Returns are subject to a 30% Restocking Fee.

Please contact us at help@wireamerica.com to request a return authorization. Have your order number or name the order was placed with ready and we will email you an RMA (return) number and instructions for return. Currently, we do not offer exchanges. A new order must be placed if you need a different item. If you provide the new order number at the time of your return request, the restocking fee may be lowered.

Orders on any items with a material value of $50 or less are non-returnable.

250 MCM 3C Direct Burial Aluminum MC Cable with Bare Ground (PVC Jacketed)

Parent SKU :  MCA250-3JKT

SKU :  MCA250-3JKT-250

3 CONDUCTOR + GROUND • ALUMINUM INTERLOCKED ARMOR • PVC JACKET • 600V
Contact us for price
Ships in 1-2 days

Parent SKU :  MCA250-3JKT

SKU :  MCA250-3JKT-250

$3,029/ea.
$6,027/ea.
$11,993/ea.
$12.30/ft.
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  • Competitive Pricing
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Get Product Details

Get Product Details

"Engineered for maximum power capacity and tough underground environments, 250 MCM 3-Conductor Direct Burial Aluminum MC Cable delivers complete feeder protection without the added labor or expense of installing underground conduit.

This heavy-duty cable features three 250 MCM compact-stranded aluminum conductors and one #2 AWG aluminum ground conductor, protected by an interlocked aluminum armor and covered in a rugged, moisture-proof, UV-resistant PVC outer jacket. Fully approved per NEC Article 330 for direct earth burial, wet locations, and cable tray applications, it is the ultimate cost-effective solution for 200A–250A commercial service distribution, industrial subpanels, and utility power runs."

Key Features & Benefits: 250 MCM-3C Direct Burial Alum MC Cable + Ground

  • Direct Burial Approved (No Conduit Required): The extruded PVC outer jacket isolates the interlocked aluminum armor from moisture, soil chemicals, and ground rot, allowing you to lay cable directly into open trenches.

  • High-Capacity 250 MCM Layout: Features three 250 MCM phase conductors and one #1 AWG bare ground—ideal for commercial main service entrances, large industrial subpanels, and high-amp machinery feeds.

  • Compact Stranded AA-8000 Aluminum: Built with lightweight AA-8000 series aluminum alloy that reduces overall cable diameter, making it easier to pull through tight bends without sacrificing ampacity.

  • Superior Mechanical Armor: The flexible interlocked aluminum armor shields internal wires from soil shifts, sharp rocks, crushed backfill, and physical impacts during installation.

  • Sunlight & Flame Resistant: Designed to handle direct exposure to sunlight, wet locations, and indoor/outdoor transitions seamlessly.

Technical Specifications: 250 MCM 3 Conductor Direct Burial Alum MC Cable

  • Conductor Size: 250 MCM (kcmil)

  • Number of Power Conductors: 3

  • Conductor Material: AA-8000 Series Compact Stranded Aluminum Alloy

  • Ground Wire Size: 2 AWG Bare Aluminum

  • Phase Colors (240V ) : Black, White, Red 

  • Insulation Type: XLPE / XHHW-2

  • Armor Type: AIA (Aluminum Interlocked Armor)

  • Protective Outer Jacket: PVC - Black (Sunlight & Moisture Resistant)

  • Voltage Rating: 600 Volts

  • Temperature Rating: -40°C to 90°C

  • Amp Rating (@ 75°C - NEC): 205 Amps

  • Amp Rating (@ 90°C - NEC): 230 Amps

  • Insulation Thickness: 0.065 inches

  • Jacket Thickness: 0.060 inches

  • Approximate Nominal Outer Diameter: 1.91 inches

  • Approximate Net Weight: 1,410 lbs per 1,000 ft

  • Minimum Bending Radius: 13.37 inches (Calculated as 7x Diameter Over Jacket)

  • Compliance Standards: UL 44, UL 1569 (Type MC), NEMA WC70 / ICEA S-95-658, IEEE 1202, ASTM B800 & B801, NEC 518.4, NEC 520.5, NEC 645.5, and NEC 300.22.

Common 250 MCM-3 Alum MC Cable PVC Jacket Applications

  • Main Commercial Feeders & Subpanels: Delivering high-capacity power from utility disconnects to 200A–250A commercial distribution boards and industrial subpanels.

  • Industrial & Utility Facility Power: Routing heavy 3-phase power across manufacturing facilities, chemical plants, wastewater facilities, and industrial job sites.

  • Underground Distribution: Running direct-buried main feeders between separate commercial buildings, agricultural complexes, and heavy machinery workshops.

Ordering & Fulfillment

  • Cut to Length: Sold by the foot or in custom master reel quantities to match your exact trench footprint and minimize scrap.

  • Fast Processing: Ships directly from closest regional distribution hubs with stock to guarantee minimal transit times and reduced freight costs.

  • Submittal Assistance: Need cut sheets or manufacturer technical data sheets for engineering approval? Call our sales team directly at 833-268-8644 for immediate jobsite support.


Technical Note: To prevent structural degradation from galvanic corrosion, installers must utilize dual-rated AL7CU or AL9CU mechanical compression lugs or mechanical split-bolts when joining this aluminum cable to copper busbars or breaker terminals. Penetrox or similar antioxidant joint compound must be thoroughly applied to all bare aluminum conductors before final structural torquing. While the PVC jacket isolates the interior armor against direct soil or chemical contact, minimum trench depth profiles must strictly comply with NEC Article 300.5 tables (typically requiring 24 inches of earth cover for direct-buried cables not under concrete paths, or 18 inches beneath standard structural landscapes).

DISCLAIMER: The technical information provided is for general reference only. Large-scale high-voltage feeder systems and underground distribution paths must strictly adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC), local electrical building enforcement, and relevant safety parameters. Always cross-reference the official product submittal data sheet from the chosen manufacturer prior to finalizing structural configurations or executing structural cuts.

See Full Specifications

See Full Specifications

Physical Specifications

Wire Size (AWG/MCM) 250 MCM
Conductor Material Aluminum
Conductor Type Stranded
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) 1.91 in.
Jacket Type PVC
Conductor Count 3
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (XLPE) Cross-Linked Polyethylene
UL Listing Numbers UL 44, UL 1569

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600V
Ampacity Rating 230
Direct Burial Rating Yes
Submersible No
Sunlight Resistance Rating Yes
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards UL 44, 83, 1569 for Type MC Cable for CT Use
NEMA WC-70/ICEA S-95-658
IEEEE 1202 70, 000 BTU/HR Vertical Tray Flame Test
ASTM B800 & B801
NEC 518.4, NEC 520.5, NEC 645.5, and NEC 300.22 for environmental air-handling spaces.
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction. **Ampacities are based on NEC Table 310.15(B)(16), and show the allowable Ampacities of three current carrying insulated conductors, in a raceway, cable, or earth based on ambient temperature of 30°C (86°F).

Usage & Installation

Primary ApplicationsService entrance conductors, Feeders, Branch circuits, Power, lighting, control, and signal circuits
Common Uses
  • Branch
  • feeder and service power distribution in commercial
  • industrial
  • and multi-residential buildings
  • power
  • lighting
  • control and signal circuits.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 1.41 lb

Shipping and Returns

Shipping and Returns

General Shipping Information

In-stock orders placed before 3pm EST typically ship within 1-2 business days. Our business days are Monday through Friday; we do not process orders on Saturday, Sunday, or major US Holidays.

You will receive an e-mail with a tracking number within 1-2 business days from the time its shipped. You will also be able to view your order status and tracking numbers in your account order history.

Expedited Shipping

Expedited shipments are delivered Monday-Friday except on US Holidays. The order must be placed before 12pm CST to ship same day ( Mon-Fri Only).

Returns

You have 30 days from the day you receive the item to contact us for a return. Returns are subject to a 30% Restocking Fee.

Please contact us at help@wireamerica.com to request a return authorization. Have your order number or name the order was placed with ready and we will email you an RMA (return) number and instructions for return. Currently, we do not offer exchanges. A new order must be placed if you need a different item. If you provide the new order number at the time of your return request, the restocking fee may be lowered.

Orders on any items with a material value of $50 or less are non-returnable.

Physical Specifications

Wire Size (AWG/MCM) 250 MCM
Conductor Material Aluminum
Conductor Type Stranded
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) 1.91 in.
Jacket Type PVC
Conductor Count 3
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (XLPE) Cross-Linked Polyethylene
UL Listing Numbers UL 44, UL 1569

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600V
Ampacity Rating 230
Direct Burial Rating Yes
Submersible No
Sunlight Resistance Rating Yes
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards UL 44, 83, 1569 for Type MC Cable for CT Use
NEMA WC-70/ICEA S-95-658
IEEEE 1202 70, 000 BTU/HR Vertical Tray Flame Test
ASTM B800 & B801
NEC 518.4, NEC 520.5, NEC 645.5, and NEC 300.22 for environmental air-handling spaces.
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction. **Ampacities are based on NEC Table 310.15(B)(16), and show the allowable Ampacities of three current carrying insulated conductors, in a raceway, cable, or earth based on ambient temperature of 30°C (86°F).

Usage & Installation:

Primary ApplicationsService entrance conductors, Feeders, Branch circuits, Power, lighting, control, and signal circuits
Common Uses
  • Branch
  • feeder and service power distribution in commercial
  • industrial
  • and multi-residential buildings
  • power
  • lighting
  • control and signal circuits.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 1.41 lb

Have Questions?

Call Us. Icon

Call Us.

(833) 268-8644

Email Us

This high-capacity, jacketed armor cable is optimized for permanent installations requiring high ampacity and robust physical protection without the need for traditional pipe routing. Common uses include:

  • Primary Service Entrances: Feeding heavy underground main power from utility-side transformers or outdoor meter banks to 200-Amp main breaker panels.
  • Industrial Feeder Networks: Supplying power to manufacturing equipment, high-horsepower industrial water pumps, and primary distribution switchboards.
  • Commercial Building Feeder Runs: Routing dedicated lines for high-output commercial HVAC chillers, backup generator networks, and large institutional complexes.
  • Concrete Structural Encasement: Laying primary electrical circuits directly within poured concrete foundations, parking garages, and shipping docks.

The most searched question for this heavy-gauge cable collection focuses on why standard metal-clad armor cannot be buried without a PVC jacket. The answer is Galvanic Corrosion and Chemical Isolation. While the interlocking aluminum armor acts as a tough physical shield against rock shifts and shovel strikes, raw aluminum deteriorates rapidly when exposed to the acidic chemistry of natural soil, moisture, or curing concrete. The seamless PVC outer jacket creates a completely waterproof skin that isolates the metal armor from environmental elements, ensuring a 30+ year lifespan underground.

Wire America ships all of our 250 MCM 3C Direct Burial Aluminum MC Cable directly from our centralized fulfillment centers throughout the United States. We are able to cut to length, process, and ship your order within 1–2 business days and ship straight to your job site, commercial, or residential property. Most standard orders arrive at your doorstep within 2 to 4 business days, with expedited shipping options available at checkout.

No. While the PVC jacket is heavily treated with UV inhibitors to protect it from sunlight damage during construction, it is not legally rated to sit exposed on the ground permanently. Over many years, intense direct sunlight, freezing ice, lawn equipment, and local wildlife can slowly degrade the plastic skin. It must either be buried in a trench or securely strapped along a building framework.

Under National Electrical Code (NEC Table 310.16) guidelines, 250 MCM aluminum cable is rated for 205 Amps at standard 75°C terminal ratings (170 Amps at 60°C and 230 Amps at 90°C). Always consult with a licensed electrician or local building inspector to verify the correct cable size and local code requirements for your specific project.

Inside the 250 MCM-3C layout, you will find three insulated power conductors (typically colored Black, Red, and White) alongside a bare aluminum ground wire. The Black and Red wires act as your "Hot" phase lines, the White wire connects to your neutral bus bar, and the bare wire terminates directly into the ground bus bar.

You must use UL-listed wet-location / direct-burial MC fittings (often called jacketed MC connectors or liquid-tight MC fittings). Standard indoor squeeze connectors cannot be used because they do not form a watertight seal around the outer PVC jacket.

Call Us. Icon

Call Us.

(833) 268-8644

Email Us