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Physical Specifications
Technical Specifications
Usage & Installation:
Packaging & Dimensions:
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No. Standard Aluminum MC cable with open, interlocked metal armor is engineered strictly for dry, indoor, concealed, or exposed installations. It cannot be buried directly in soil or embedded in concrete without a protective, fluid-tight PVC outer jacket (often designated as "Direct Burial MC" or "PVC-Jacketed MC"). For underground runs, you must use an approved underground feeder cable (like MHF or URD) or run standalone conductors through a buried conduit system.
The core structural difference lies in the number of current-carrying insulated conductors inside the assembly. The 2/3 MC Cable profile features three insulated phase wires (typically Black, Red, White) plus a bare ground, making it perfect for single-phase 120/240V subpanels and heavy 240V household loads. The 2/4 profile contains four insulated phase wires (typically Black, White, Red, Blue) plus a bare ground. This fourth conductor is required for three-phase commercial power infrastructure or specialty dual-voltage equipment requiring independent legs.
The allowable ampacity of 2/4 Aluminum MC Cable is 90 Amps, based on the standard 75°C conductor termination threshold outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC Table 310.16). While the internal XHHW-2 cross-linked polyethylene insulation can safely handle up to 100 Amps under 90°C parameters, the circuit's overall continuous rating must be restricted to 90 Amps to match the maximum temperature limitations of standard mechanical breaker lugs and distribution terminal equipment. The higher 100-Amp threshold is strictly utilized by engineers for ampacity adjustment, correction factors, and environmental derating. Always consult with a local electrician to confirm what size is best for your install.
4/4 Aluminum MC Cable has an approximate physical net weight of 540 lbs per 1,000 feet (lbs/mft). The nominal outside diameter over the external interlocking aluminum armor is 1.23 inches (+/- 5%). Knowing these dimensions allows installers to ensure they select the appropriate trade-size connector fittings and evaluate structural loading capacities for long cable tray pulls.
Wire America ships MC Cable directly from our regional hubs located across the United States, delivering most orders right to your shop or job site within 2 to 4 business days. We prioritize shipping this cable from the warehouse nearest to your job site to keep transit times minimal. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout for time-sensitive contractor deadlines.
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