Wire Insulation

Alwayslearningelec

Senior Member
Location
NJ
Occupation
Estimator
This spec section is a bit confusing. Wires in conduit(IMO) would NOT be USE. What insualtion do you think they are referring to for wires in conduit in this situation?

Cables for incoming service, or wire in conduits
contiguous with the earth, in concrete, or other damp or wet locations, must be synthetic rubber insulated
with neoprene jacket, heat and moisture resistant and must be equal to UL Type USE and rated for 600
volts at 75 degrees C. for both wet and dry locations.
 
Unsure of your notation that wires in conduit can not be USE.
Of the conductors enter the building they would need to be dual rated such as USE/RHW or USE/UF but that is common for USE.
 
It looks like they want a "rubber" cable instead of a thermoplastic one (PVC). I would look for a cable with EPR insulation on it. That neoprene jacket will be tough to find though as most manufacturers don't use neoprene anylonger and haven't for a long time (outside of highly specialized applications). Plus most of these cable types won't even have a jacket over the insulation. I would see if a simple EPR insulated cable would be accepted.
 
There asking for an insulation type that is equal to USE. So whatever insulation material that is used to manufacturer USE should be acceptable.
 
Top