From $0.20/ft
128 Products
-
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 : 18UL3173
SKU : 18UL3173-500-BK
This 18 AWG UL 3173 hook-up wire is an elite internal wiring solution designed for high-reliability applications where space is limited but environmental demands are high. Featuring chemically cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation, this wire provides a rugged, heat-stable jacket that outperforms standard PVC in industrial and commercial equipment.
UL 3173 is a specialized lead wire often used in the manufacturing of motors, transformers, and electronic ballasts. The 18-gauge size is particularly popular for control circuits and lighting applications where a smaller diameter is required for intricate routing. The "thermoset" nature of XLPE means it will not shrink back or melt during soldering, ensuring clean and safe terminations.
Premium XLPE Insulation: Cross-linked polyethylene offers superior thermal stability and won't melt or flow even under extreme momentary overloads.
125C Thermal Endurance: Rated for continuous operation up to 125C (257F), making it suitable for high-heat industrial "hot zones."
Tinned Copper Conductor: Annealed tinned copper strands provide excellent conductivity while preventing the oxidation that can lead to joint failure in humid or corrosive environments.
Mechanical Integrity: Engineered to resist abrasion, cut-through, and mechanical impact better than traditional thermoplastic wires.
Chemical and Oil Resistance: The insulation remains stable when exposed to common industrial solvents, lubricants, and chemicals.
Compliance Standards: Fully compliant with UL Style 3173, UL Style 3195, and CSA Type CL1251.
Conductor Size: 18 AWG
Stranding: 16/30 (Standard 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: 0.107 inches (2.72 mm)
Approvals: UL 3173, UL 3195, CSA CL1251
Electronic Ballasts: Widely used in lighting fixtures due to its high temperature rating and thin profile.
Small Motor Leads: Ideal for internal connections in fractional horsepower motors.
Switchboard and Control Wiring: Used for point-to-point wiring in panels where reliability and thermal resistance are mandatory.
Transformer Lead Wire: Preferred for lead-outs in dry-type transformers and coils.
Technical Note: All dimensions and stranding counts are nominal. UL 3173 is specifically designed for the internal wiring of equipment and is not approved for use as a portable cord or for structural building wiring.
SPECIFICATION: UL Style 3173 / CSA CL1251
| Wire Size (AWG/MCM) | 18 AWG |
| Conductor Material | Tinned Copper |
| Conductor Type | Stranded |
| Strand Count | 16 |
| Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) | 0.111 in. / 2.82 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 |
|
| Weight per Foot | 0.01 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.
Get notified when this product is back in stock
Physical Specifications
Technical Specifications
Usage & Installation:
Packaging & Dimensions:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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.
Standard consumer wires use soft PVC. This wire uses XLPE, which has been "cooked" during manufacturing to be much harder and more durable. Think of the difference between a soft gummy candy and a hard plastic shell; the XLPE is a permanent, rugged shield designed to be pulled through metal tubes and cramped boxes without getting nicked.
125°C (257°F) is much hotter than boiling water. Most household wires start to smoke or melt at 90°C. This high-temp rating means the wire can sit safely inside a hot motor or right next to a industrial power supply without becoming brittle or failing over time.
It is still high-quality copper, but it has been "Tinned." In industrial settings, heat and air can make copper turn black and "rot" (oxidize). The silver-colored tin coating acts like a suit of armor, keeping the copper fresh so your electrical connections stay strong and safe for years.
Yes! In fact, 18 AWG UL 3173 is a favorite for 3D printer "hot end" wiring and custom electronics. Because the insulation won't melt if it accidentally touches the heated bed or nozzle, it is a significant safety upgrade over standard hobbyist wire.
18 AWG is a "light-to-medium" size. It isn't for your main power lines, but it is perfect for cooling fans, LED lighting, sensor signals, and small motors. It’s the "nervous system" wire of the machine—carrying the important signals and smaller power loads that keep everything running.
At the 18-gauge level, wire is frequently used for high-density control panels and sensitive electronics where space is tight and heat management is critical.
(833) 268-8644
Get this thing filled up so you can help Wire America!