Product Overview
The Type MC-HL cable is a UL 1569 listed, NEC-recognized Metal Clad cable designed for reliable power distribution in demanding industrial and hazardous environments. It combines Flame-Retardant Cross-Linked Polyethylene (FR-XLP) insulation, rated XHHW-2, with a moisture-blocking, continuously welded corrugated aluminum armor. This robust construction provides superior mechanical protection, effective EMI/electrostatic shielding, and long-term durability for 600V/1kV systems.
Key Features & Applications
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UL Listed for Hazardous Locations: Certified as Type MC-HL (UL 1569) for use in NEC Class I, II, & III, Division 1 & 2 areas (Articles 501-503).
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Built for VFD Systems: Three-conductor versions feature symmetrically spaced ground wires, making them an optimal choice for Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) and Pulse-Width Modulated (PWM) applications to reduce electrical noise.
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All-Environment Durability: The hermetically sealed aluminum armor provides a complete moisture barrier. The cable is sunlight resistant and approved for direct burial, concrete embedment, cable tray, rack, and aerial installations.
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High Performance Safety: Insulation is rated for 90°C continuous, 130°C overload, and 250°C short-circuit temperatures. Exceeds flame test standards (IEEE 1202, ICEA T-29-520).
Primary Applications: Industrial power feeds, VFD motor circuits, cable tray systems, and power distribution in oil & gas, chemical plants, wastewater treatment, and manufacturing facilities requiring protected cabling.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Electrical Ratings | Voltage: 600V/1kV • Continuous Temp: 90°C • Overload Temp: 130°C • Short-Circuit Temp: 250°C |
| Insulation | Flame-Retardant Cross-Linked Polyethylene (FR-XLP / XHHW-2) |
| Armor & Protection | Continuously Welded, Corrugated Aluminum Sheath |
| Jacket Options | Sunlight-Resistant PVC or Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) Polyolefin |
| Key Certifications | UL 1569 (Type MC-HL), UL 44, IEEE 1202, ICEA T-29-520, NEC Compliant |
| Installation | Direct Burial, Cable Tray (CTC), Concrete, Aerial, Hazardous Locations |
Construction Details (Layer by Layer)
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Conductor | Bare copper, soft-stranded per ASTM B3. Typically compact round (ASTM B496). |
| Insulation | XHHW-2 rated FR-XLP, extruded concentrically. Conductors are numbered for phase ID. |
| Grounding | 3-Cond. Cables: Three bare copper grounds in outer interstices. 1,2,4-Cond. Cables: Sized per UL minimums, located in interstice or concentrically. |
| Cabling | Cabled with left-hand lay, non-hygroscopic fillers, and binder tape. |
| Armor | Continuous, corrugated, and welded aluminum sheath applied over the cabled core. |
| Overall Jacket | An extruded jacket of PVC (Sunlight Resistant) or LSZH Polyolefin is fitted tightly over the armor. |
Standards & Compliance
This product is engineered and tested to meet or exceed the following industry standards:
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Safety & Listing: UL 1569 (Metal-Clad Cables), UL 44 (Thermoset Insulation)
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Electrical Code: NFPA 70 (NEC) for Type MC-HL recognition
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Construction: ICEA S-95-658 / NEMA WC 70
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Flame Performance: IEEE 1202 (70k BTU) & ICEA T-29-520 (210k BTU Vertical Tray)
Note: Current ratings are based on a single cable in an uncovered tray at 30°C ambient per NEC. Consult the NEC or an engineer for other installation conditions.