XHHW-2 vs THHN

[Blairhawks1]

Hey guys, I'm starting a job running 220V from a subpanel to some outlets. I'll be running all the wire through EMT (in chicagoland so it's required). Generally for something like this I'd just use THHN/THWN, but I have quite a bit of left over XHHW-2 from another job and am trying to figure out if there is an issue using it for this one? Everything I can find says that XHHW-2 is better in every way than THHN except for cost, so that leads me to believe I can use it, but just want to get that verified.

Second part of the question is, I only have enough of the XHHW-2 to run the 2 hots, I've just got THHN/THWN for the ground and neutral is it okay to have the two different wire types in the same circuit? Thanks

 

[Jraef]

No issue mixing, and you are correct, XHHW is a better insulation system, but more expensive. I always recommend XHHW for output cables on VFDs because of the better insulation, but on 240V, you are not going to stress either type to it’s limits. So if you’re OK with “wasting” it on a 240V run, there is no reason you can’t.

 

[DrSparks]

XHHW-2 can be used indoors, outdoors, in a raceway, not in a raceway, underground, in wet locations, and exposed to direct sunlight. It's robust and universal. Many contractors buy it in bulk and use it everywhere. Only thing is I don't think it's oil resistant. Correct me if I'm wrong. Also can be operated at 90 deg cel. in wet locations too I believe.

 

[LarryFine]

Also can be operated at 90 deg cel. in wet locations too I believe.

The -2 suffix indicates that among all insulation types.

 

[Blairhawks1]

Thanks for the quick responses guys! Confirmed exactly what i was looking for. I’ll go ahead and use it then with the THHN ground and the XHHW hots. Dr Sparks, just on your comment about the oil resistance. It says right on the label of this wire that it is oil resistant, so I think I’d be good there as well!