MC-AP versus MC Labor

[Alwayslearningelec]

I understand that the MC-AP uses the armor as the grounding path and does not have a green grounding conductor found in MC. When running regular MC cable for branch circuits I am assuming that the ground for regular MC has to be terminated at every device and this doe not need to happen with MC-Ap thus saving time...correct? Thanks.

 

[tom baker]

30% less labor is what Southwire claims

 

[cdslotz]

30% less labor is what Southwire claims

Never trust a manufacturer's claim of savings

 

[Alwayslearningelec]

THanks. But am I correct in that the ground need to be terminated at every device with MC and NOT with MC-AP?

 

[infinity]

If you used only two wire cables that's a 33% reduction in terminations at every box, panel, light fixture etc. Also if you use self-grounding receptacles that's at least on less jumper at every device location. Sounds like the savings can add up quickly.

 

[btharmy]

THanks. But am I correct in that the ground need to be terminated at every device with MC and NOT with MC-AP?

Yes, you are correct. There are no equipment ground conductors to terminate.

 

[ceb58]

But the kicker is the MC-AP cost about $200.00 per 1000' more than MC. So you would have to look closely at the job to come up with any savings. If you had long runs with few terminations you wouldn't save any thing.

 

[mlnk]

Our AHJ accepts self-grounding receptacles for surface work only. No deal on finished wall work. That is, the self-grounding function was not acceptable...the receptacles are acceptable to use but they also must additionally have a green grounding wire connected to the metal box. They did not want self-grounding used for drywall walls because sometimes the strap does not touch the plaster ring. This makes "ribbon grounding" less efficient especially if it costs more for the material.

 

[infinity]

Our AHJ accepts self-grounding receptacles for surface work only. No deal on finished wall work. That is, the self-grounding function was not acceptable...the receptacles are acceptable to use but they also must additionally have a green grounding wire connected to the metal box. They did not want self-grounding used for drywall walls because sometimes the strap does not touch the plaster ring. This makes "ribbon grounding" less efficient especially if it costs more for the material.

Sounds pretty bogus to me. Self-grounding receptacles are tested and listed for use without a bonding jumper.

 

[fisherelectric]

What's the deal with the AC "lite" I've seen at the supply house? Made with aluminum?