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Solid THHN/THWN-2 WireFrom $0.20/ft -
Solid THHN/THWN-2 WireFrom $0.20/ft - Solid THHN/THWN-2 WireFrom $0.20/ft
- Solid THHN/THWN-2 WireFrom $0.20/ft
Parent SKU : 12UL3173
SKU : 12UL3173-500-BK
This 12 AWG UL 3173 hook-up wire is a high-capacity internal wiring solution engineered for demanding industrial and commercial applications. Utilizing chemically cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation, this wire provides a rugged, heat-stable jacket that maintains its structural integrity under significant thermal stress and mechanical pressure.
UL 3173 is a premier industrial standard for lead wire in heavy-duty motors, transformers, and power supplies. The 12-gauge conductor offers substantial ampacity for high-current circuits while the XLPE insulation provides a "thermoset" advantage—it will not soften, melt, or deform when exposed to high temperatures or soldering heat. This makes it a significantly safer and more durable alternative to standard PVC-insulated wires.
High-Performance XLPE Insulation: The cross-linked polyethylene jacket offers superior dielectric strength and exceptional resistance to environmental stress cracking.
125C Thermal Rating: Designed for continuous operation in high-heat environments up to 125C (257F).
Tinned Copper Conductor: Annealed tinned copper strands provide excellent electrical conductivity and maximum protection against corrosion and oxidation at terminal points.
Mechanical Resilience: Engineered to withstand abrasion, crushing, and cut-through, ensuring long-term reliability in high-vibration or compact enclosures.
Chemical & Solvent Resistance: The insulation is highly resistant to common industrial oils, acids, alkalis, and moisture.
Triple Compliance: Meets the strict requirements of UL Style 3173, UL Style 3195, and CSA Type CL1251.
Conductor Size: 12 AWG
Stranding: 65/30 (High Flexibility)
Voltage Rating: 600V
Temperature Rating: 125C (257F)
Insulation Material: Cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE)
Insulation Thickness: 0.030 inches (0.762 mm)
Nominal Outer Diameter: 0.155 inches (3.94 mm)
Approvals: UL 3173, UL 3195, CSA CL1251
Heavy-Duty Motor Leads: Ideal for internal connections in large electric motors and generators.
Power Distribution: Used in transformers and switchgear where 600V protection and high current-carrying capacity are required.
Industrial Control Panels: Preferred for power routing and grounding in cabinets where space and heat management are critical.
Commercial Appliances: Suitable for high-draw heating and cooling equipment and heavy-duty industrial machinery.
Technical Note: All dimensions and stranding counts are nominal. UL 3173 is intended for the internal wiring of equipment and is not designed for use as a portable cord or for structural building wiring.
SPECIFICATION: UL Style 3173 / CSA CL1251
| Wire Size (AWG/MCM) | 12 AWG |
| Conductor Material | Tinned Copper |
| Conductor Type | Stranded |
| Strand Count | 65 |
| Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) | 0.156 in. / 3.96 mm |
| Conductor Count | 1 |
| Shield | Unshielded |
| Insulation Type | XLPE |
| UL Listing Numbers | UL 3173 |
| Voltage Rating | 600V |
| Submersible | No |
| Temperature Rating | 125ºC |
| Standards | UL Type AWM Style 3173 CSA CL1251 UL Horizontal Flame Test CSA FT2 Flame Test |
| Miscellaneous Information | All values are nominal and subject to correction. |
| Primary Applications | Switchboards, Control and Power Circuits, Applications up to 125° and 600 volts. |
| Common Uses |
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| Weight per Foot | 0.028 lb |
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 shipments are delivered Monday-Friday except on US Holidays. The order must be placed before 12pm CST to ship same day ( Mon-Fri Only).
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.
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Physical Specifications
Technical Specifications
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UL 3173 is the safety standard for cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulated wire. This rating confirms the cable is approved for 600V service and can operate continuously at temperatures up to 125°C (257°F), providing superior thermal stability compared to standard thermoplastic wires.
While 12 AWG is a thick, powerful wire, its longevity depends on the quality of the copper core:
Most extension cords use soft, rubbery PVC. This wire uses XLPE, which is chemically "cooked" to be much tougher. Think of it like the difference between a raw rubber band and a rugged plastic zip-tie; the XLPE is designed to be a permanent, heavy-duty shield that won't get crushed or cut easily inside a machine.
To put it simply: 125°C (257°F) is hotter than boiling water. Most household wires are only rated for 60°C or 90°C. This high rating gives you a massive safety margin. If the inside of your motor housing or control box gets very hot, this wire won't become brittle or fail like standard wire would.
It is still high-quality copper, but it has been "Tinned." In industrial settings, heat and air can make bare copper "rust" (oxidize) and turn black. The silver-colored tin acts like a protective suit of armor, keeping the copper fresh so your electrical connections stay strong for years.
Yes! In fact, 12 AWG UL 3173 is a favorite for high-wattage heating elements. Because the insulation won't melt if it accidentally touches a hot surface, it is a significant safety upgrade over the standard wires found in many hobbyist kits.
Yes, 12 AWG is a "heavy-hitter." It is typically used for substantial power loads, like the main power feed inside a large control cabinet, heavy-duty heating elements, or large industrial motors. It’s the "heavy artery" wire that carries the bulk of the power to where it's needed.
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