12/3 NM-B Copper Building Wire with Ground, 600V (Purple Jacket)

Parent SKU :  NMB12-3

SKU :  NMB12-3-250

SOLID COPPER • 600V • NON-METALLIC SHEATHED CABLE
Wire Size 12 AWG
Conductor Material Copper
Conductor Type Solid
Outer Diameter .200 x .520 in.
Conductor Count 3
Voltage Rating 600V
Ampacity Rating 20
Weight per Foot 0.105 lb

Get Product Details

Get Product Details

Engineered for elite efficiency in residential and commercial interiors, this 12 AWG NM-B Copper Building Wire with a distinctive Purple Jacket is designed for high-performance 20-amp branch circuits. This cable provides a premium, labor-saving solution for interior wiring, offering the superior conductivity of annealed copper in a format that stands out on the job site for rapid identification and organized circuit management.

Why Choose 12/3 NM-B Purple Building Wire?

This 2-conductor (plus ground) configuration is a fundamental requirement for modern high-density electrical loads. The Type NM-B designation allows for rapid installation through wood-frame structures without the need for conduit. The unique purple color is often utilized by contractors to distinguish specific circuit types (such as AFCI/GFCI dedicated lines or lighting controls) from standard 20-amp yellow-jacketed runs.

  • Unique Purple Color Coding: The purple PVC jacket provides immediate visual differentiation on a crowded job site, helping crews and inspectors identify specific circuits or proprietary Priority-Plex® installations instantly.

  • Maximum Copper Conductivity: Soft-drawn copper conductors ensure the lowest electrical resistance and most reliable power delivery for sensitive electronics and high-use outlets.

  • Enhanced Pulling Performance: The outer PVC jacket is formulated with a slick finish to glide through bored studs and tight corners, reducing the physical effort required during rough-in.

  • Industrial-Grade Insulation: Each conductor is shielded with heat-resistant PVC and a tough nylon topcoat (THHN/THWN-2), providing an extra layer of defense against abrasion and nicks.

Technical Specifications: 12/3 NM-B Copper (Purple)

  • Conductor Size: 12 AWG

  • Number of Conductors: 2 (plus Ground)

  • Color Code: Black, White, Bare Ground

  • Jacket Color: Purple

  • Ampacity: 20 Amps at 60°C (NEC Table 310.16)

  • Voltage: 600V

  • Insulation: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) with Nylon Covering (Type THHN)

  • Max Temp: 90°C (Dry locations only)

  • Conductor Material: Annealed (Soft) Copper

  • Standards: UL Standard 83, UL Standard 719, ASTM B-3, B-8, Federal Spec A-A-59544

Common Applications

  • Specialized Kitchen Circuits: Ideal for dedicated GFCI-protected circuits serving high-wattage countertop appliances and food prep areas.

  • Home Automation & Lighting Controls: Often used to differentiate "smart home" or control circuits from standard general-purpose power.

  • Dedicated Home Office Power: The standard choice for computer workstations and high-end home theater systems that require a dedicated 20-amp feed.

  • Bathroom & Laundry Receptacles: A reliable solution for wiring high-wattage personal care tools and modern high-efficiency washing machines.


Technical Note: All values are nominal and subject to industry tolerances and manufacturer corrections. Specifications are subject to change without notice. It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify that all materials meet the specific requirements of the project and comply with local electrical codes. NM-B is for dry, indoor use only.

 

*All values are nominal and subject to correction. Ampacity is based on the National Electrical Code (NEC) 60°C column for NM-B cable, regardless of the conductor temperature rating.

See Full Specifications

See Full Specifications

Physical Specifications

Wire Size (AWG/MCM) 12 AWG
Conductor Material Copper
Conductor Type Solid
Strand Count 1
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) .200 x .520 in.
Jacket Type PVC
Conductor Count 3
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (PVC) Polyvinyl Chloride
UL Listing Numbers UL 83

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600V
Ampacity Rating 20
Submersible No
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards US 719
UL 83
ASTM B3 and B8
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction.
RoHS Compliance Yes

Usage & Installation

Primary ApplicationsWiring outlets, switches, and lighting circuits in residential buildings.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 0.105 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.

12/3 NM-B Copper Building Wire with Ground, 600V (Purple Jacket)

Parent SKU :  NMB12-3

SKU :  NMB12-3-250

SOLID COPPER • 600V • NON-METALLIC SHEATHED CABLE
In Stock
Ships in 1-2 days

Parent SKU :  NMB12-3

SKU :  NMB12-3-250

$313/ea.
$623/ea.
$1,239/ea.
$3,080/ea.
$1.27/ft.
Please select an option
Min: 250 ft., Max: 10,000 ft.
Spool (250 ft.)
$313.00
Please select an option
Maximum reached, contact us for custom orders
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Get Product Details

Get Product Details

Engineered for elite efficiency in residential and commercial interiors, this 12 AWG NM-B Copper Building Wire with a distinctive Purple Jacket is designed for high-performance 20-amp branch circuits. This cable provides a premium, labor-saving solution for interior wiring, offering the superior conductivity of annealed copper in a format that stands out on the job site for rapid identification and organized circuit management.

Why Choose 12/3 NM-B Purple Building Wire?

This 2-conductor (plus ground) configuration is a fundamental requirement for modern high-density electrical loads. The Type NM-B designation allows for rapid installation through wood-frame structures without the need for conduit. The unique purple color is often utilized by contractors to distinguish specific circuit types (such as AFCI/GFCI dedicated lines or lighting controls) from standard 20-amp yellow-jacketed runs.

  • Unique Purple Color Coding: The purple PVC jacket provides immediate visual differentiation on a crowded job site, helping crews and inspectors identify specific circuits or proprietary Priority-Plex® installations instantly.

  • Maximum Copper Conductivity: Soft-drawn copper conductors ensure the lowest electrical resistance and most reliable power delivery for sensitive electronics and high-use outlets.

  • Enhanced Pulling Performance: The outer PVC jacket is formulated with a slick finish to glide through bored studs and tight corners, reducing the physical effort required during rough-in.

  • Industrial-Grade Insulation: Each conductor is shielded with heat-resistant PVC and a tough nylon topcoat (THHN/THWN-2), providing an extra layer of defense against abrasion and nicks.

Technical Specifications: 12/3 NM-B Copper (Purple)

  • Conductor Size: 12 AWG

  • Number of Conductors: 2 (plus Ground)

  • Color Code: Black, White, Bare Ground

  • Jacket Color: Purple

  • Ampacity: 20 Amps at 60°C (NEC Table 310.16)

  • Voltage: 600V

  • Insulation: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) with Nylon Covering (Type THHN)

  • Max Temp: 90°C (Dry locations only)

  • Conductor Material: Annealed (Soft) Copper

  • Standards: UL Standard 83, UL Standard 719, ASTM B-3, B-8, Federal Spec A-A-59544

Common Applications

  • Specialized Kitchen Circuits: Ideal for dedicated GFCI-protected circuits serving high-wattage countertop appliances and food prep areas.

  • Home Automation & Lighting Controls: Often used to differentiate "smart home" or control circuits from standard general-purpose power.

  • Dedicated Home Office Power: The standard choice for computer workstations and high-end home theater systems that require a dedicated 20-amp feed.

  • Bathroom & Laundry Receptacles: A reliable solution for wiring high-wattage personal care tools and modern high-efficiency washing machines.


Technical Note: All values are nominal and subject to industry tolerances and manufacturer corrections. Specifications are subject to change without notice. It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify that all materials meet the specific requirements of the project and comply with local electrical codes. NM-B is for dry, indoor use only.

 

*All values are nominal and subject to correction. Ampacity is based on the National Electrical Code (NEC) 60°C column for NM-B cable, regardless of the conductor temperature rating.

See Full Specifications

See Full Specifications

Physical Specifications

Wire Size (AWG/MCM) 12 AWG
Conductor Material Copper
Conductor Type Solid
Strand Count 1
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) .200 x .520 in.
Jacket Type PVC
Conductor Count 3
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (PVC) Polyvinyl Chloride
UL Listing Numbers UL 83

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600V
Ampacity Rating 20
Submersible No
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards US 719
UL 83
ASTM B3 and B8
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction.
RoHS Compliance Yes

Usage & Installation

Primary ApplicationsWiring outlets, switches, and lighting circuits in residential buildings.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 0.105 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) 12 AWG
Conductor Material Copper
Conductor Type Solid
Strand Count 1
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) .200 x .520 in.
Jacket Type PVC
Conductor Count 3
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (PVC) Polyvinyl Chloride
UL Listing Numbers UL 83

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600V
Ampacity Rating 20
Submersible No
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards US 719
UL 83
ASTM B3 and B8
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction.
RoHS Compliance Yes

Usage & Installation:

Primary ApplicationsWiring outlets, switches, and lighting circuits in residential buildings.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 0.105 lb

Have Questions?

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Call Us.

(833) 268-8644

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This 12 AWG, 3-conductor cable is the heavy-duty upgrade from standard 14-gauge household wire. It is designed to handle 20-amp branch circuits, providing 25% more power capacity. The "3-conductor" configuration (Black, Red, White, and Ground) makes it the specific choice for multi-wire branch circuits (MWBC), 3-way lighting switches, and split-circuit kitchen receptacles. It is most commonly used in areas with high-draw appliances like dishwashers, garbage disposals, and small kitchen appliances.

While standard 12 AWG wire is typically yellow, the Purple Jacket is a specialty color-coding used to distinguish specific circuits or to meet certain regional or project-specific requirements.

  • Visual Identification: The purple color allows for immediate identification of a specific circuit type (such as AFCI/GFCI protected lines or dedicated medical/office circuits) within a crowded electrical panel or junction box.
  • Inspector Friendly: Like the standard yellow jacket, the purple outer sheath signals to the inspector that the wire is 12-gauge, ensuring it is properly paired with a 20-amp circuit breaker.
  • Pulling Performance: The jacket features a smooth, slip-resistant finish to make routing through wood framing faster and easier for the installer.

The 12/3 configuration includes three insulated conductors (Black, Red, White) and a bare copper ground. This provides maximum versatility for residential wiring:

  • 3-Way Switches: The extra "Red" conductor acts as the traveler wire required to control a single light fixture from two different wall locations.
  • Ceiling Fans: It allows for independent control of the fan motor and the light kit from a single wall box.
  • Shared Neutrals: In multi-wire branch circuits, the red and black wires can feed two different 120V circuits while sharing the single white neutral wire, reducing the total amount of cable needed for a project.

Per NEC Article 334.80, all NM-B cables are limited to the 60°C temperature column for ampacity. For 12 AWG copper, this fixes the limit at 20 Amps. Even though the internal THHN-style insulation is rated for 90°C, the assembly is capped at 20A to prevent heat buildup when the cable is run through thermal insulation or bundled tightly with other wires. This safety margin is critical for preventing the degradation of the cable's outer jacket over decades of use.

12 AWG solid copper is sturdier than 14 AWG and requires proper technique for a clean install:

  • Bending Radius: To ensure the integrity of the copper and insulation, do not bend the cable to a radius tighter than 5 times its diameter.
  • Support & Protection: The cable must be secured with staples within 12 inches of every box and every 4.5 feet along the run. In unfinished basements or garages, it should be protected from physical damage by running it through bored holes or protected sleeves.
  • Dry Locations Only: Like all NM-B, this purple-jacketed cable is strictly for indoor, dry use. It cannot be used in damp or wet locations, such as outdoor conduit or underground runs.
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Call Us.

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