This 18 AWG, 37-conductor shielded VNTC (Vinyl Nylon Tray Cable) is an ultra-high-density, dual-rated Type TC-ER industrial cable. Engineered for massive signal consolidation and complex control logic, it features 100% foil shielding to maintain signal integrity in environments with extreme electromagnetic interference (EMI). The TC-ER (Exposed Run) rating allows for maximum installation efficiency, permitting the cable to transition from a tray to equipment without conduit.
Key Features of 18-37 Shielded VNTC (TC-ER)
Exposed Run (TC-ER) Rated: This cable has passed the rigorous UL 1277 crush and impact tests. Per NEC 336.10, it can be installed between a cable tray and the equipment it connects for distances up to 6 feet without continuous support or conduit, drastically reducing labor and material costs.
Massive Signal Consolidation: Consolidates 37 individual 18 AWG conductors into a single jacket, allowing for the management of dozens of control loops or feedback signals in one organized run.
100% EMI/RFI Shielding: An overall aluminum foil-polyester tape shield, combined with a tinned copper drain wire, provides a total barrier against electrical noise from surrounding high-voltage equipment and motor leads.
Flexible TFFN Conductors: Utilizing TFFN (Thermoplastic Flexible Fixture Nylon) stranded conductors makes this high-conductor-count cable significantly easier to manipulate, strip, and terminate in tight control panels compared to standard THHN.
Common Applications
Centralized Process Automation: Connecting main PLC cabinets to massive terminal blocks or remote motor control centers (MCCs) where conductor density is high.
Power Generation Facilities: Managing comprehensive telemetry, boiler monitoring, and generator status signaling in a single organized cable run.
Petrochemical & Refinery Control: Ideal for multi-point valve control and instrumentation in harsh, high-interference environments where chemical resistance is paramount.
Large-Scale Robotic Cells: Bundling feedback, power, and signal lines for high-conductor-count automated manufacturing systems.
Conductor Identification: E2 Color Code
The conductors are identified using the industry-standard E2 color sequence (Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Yellow, Brown, then repeated with various stripes). This systematic coding allows for the quick and accurate identification of each of the 37 individual conductors during termination.
Technical Specifications
Conductor Size: 18 AWG
Number of Conductors: 37
Conductor Material: Bare Annealed Copper (Stranded)
Insulation: TFFN (PVC with Nylon Skin)
Shielding: Overall Aluminum Foil-Polyester Tape (100% coverage)
Drain Wire: Tinned Copper
Jacket: Flame-Retardant, Sunlight-Resistant PVC (Black)
Ratings: 600V | 90°C Dry | Type TC-ER
Compliance: UL 1277, UL 66, IEEE 1202, RoHS Compliant
Technical Note: Due to the 37-conductor count, this cable has a significant outside diameter and weight. Ensure your tray system or conduit fill calculations account for these dimensions. To effectively "drain" interference, land the tinned copper drain wire at the source end only to prevent ground loops.
CABLE TYPE: 18/37 Shielded VNTC (TFFN/PVC)
RATING: Type TC-ER
COLOR CODE: E2 Standard
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DISCLAIMER: The technical information and color codes provided are for general reference only. Specifications may vary by manufacturer and are subject to change without notice. Always consult with a licensed electrical engineer or local building authorities to ensure compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and all local safety regulations before installation.