Product Overview
The Type NM-B Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable is a flame-retardant, PVC-insulated electrical cable designed for dry location wiring in residential and commercial buildings. Rated for 600 volts and compliant with NEC 2011, UL 83, and ASTM standards, this cable simplifies branch circuit installations for outlets, switches, and lighting systems. Its color-coded jacket and flexible design ensure quick identification and effortless pulling through conduits or masonry block walls.
Key Features and Benefits
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NEC and UL Compliance: Meets UL 83, UL 719, ASTM B-3/B-8, and NFPA 70 (2011 NEC).
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Easy Installation: Color-coded jacket (white, yellow, orange, black) for instant AWG size recognition.
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Flame Retardant: PVC jacket with self-extinguishing properties to minimize fire spread.
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Versatile Configuration: Available in 2, 3, or 4 conductors with a bare ground wire.
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RoHS/REACH Compliant: Free from hazardous substances.
Applications
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Residential Branch Circuits: Outlets, switches, and lighting in homes, apartments, and condos.
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Concealed Wiring: Inside walls, ceilings, or floors of dry, non-damp locations.
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Masonry Block Walls: Run through air voids in block/tile walls (non-wet environments).
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Retrofit Projects: Ideal for renovations where conduit-free wiring is preferred.
Technical Specifications
Electrical and Thermal Performance
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Voltage Rating: 600V AC.
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Temperature Rating:
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Conductors: 90°C (194°F) dry (ampacity limited to 60°C per NEC).
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Jacket: 90°C flame-retardant PVC.
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Conductor Options: 14 AWG (white), 12 AWG (yellow), 10 AWG (orange), 8/6 AWG (black).
Construction Details
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Conductors:
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Annealed (soft) copper, compressed stranded for flexibility.
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Complies with ASTM B-3 for conductivity and durability.
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Insulation:
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90°C-rated PVC (THHN type) with nylon core jacket for abrasion resistance.
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Assembly:
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Parallel conductors with kraft paper tape wrap.
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Bare copper grounding conductor for NEC compliance.
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Outer Jacket:
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Flame-retardant PVC, color-coded by wire gauge.
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Type NM-B cable is manufactured as 2, 3, or 4 conductor cable, with a bare ground wire. Copper conductors are annealed (soft) copper. Stranded conductors are compressed stranded. Conductor insulation is 90°C-rated polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nylon jacketed. Type NM-B is designed for Easier Pulling, Resulting in Easier installation. The cable jacket is color-coded for quick size identification; White - 14 AWG, Yellow - 12 AWG, Orange - 10 AWG, and Black - 8 AWG and 6 AWG.
1. Jacket:
PVC, flame retardant. 90℃.
2. Assembly:
the conductor laid parallel, with kraft paper tape wrapped.
3. Wrapping:
kraft paper tape over the grounding conductor
4. Core Jacket:
Nylon
5. Insulation:
PVC, type THHN.
6. Conductor
annealed copper, comply to ASTM B3
Compliance and Certifications
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Standards: UL 83, UL 719, ASTM B-3/B-8, NFPA 70 (NEC 2011).
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Environmental: RoHS, REACH, and Federal Specification A-A-59544.
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Safety: Flame-retardant jacket, self-extinguishing per CSA FT-4.
Packaging and Ordering
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Standard Lengths: 250 ft, 500 ft, or custom spools.
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Color Codes:
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14 AWG: White | 12 AWG: Yellow | 10 AWG: Orange | 8/6 AWG: Black.
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Advantages
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Time-Saving Design: Pre-assembled conductors simplify installation in tight spaces.
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Code-Compliant: Meets NEC requirements for residential and light commercial use.
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Durability: Nylon-insulated cores resist abrasion during pulling.
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Cost-Effective: Eliminates conduit costs for in-wall applications.
FAQs
Q: Can NM-B cable be used in wet locations or outdoors?
A: No. NM-B is rated for dry locations only. Use UF-B or THWN-2 cables for damp/wet environments.
Q: What is the purpose of the kraft paper tape in the assembly?
A: It provides separation between conductors and stabilizes the cable structure during installation.
Q: Is NM-B suitable for high-temperature areas (e.g., near furnaces)?
A: No. The 90°C rating applies to conductors, but ampacity must adhere to NEC 60°C limits for most residential uses.
Note: Not for use in damp locations, direct burial, or exposed outdoor installations. Always follow local electrical codes.