Yes you could run a separate #10 or larger equipment grounding conductor As allowed in table 250.122 this can be done at the panel or even at the grounding rod. But sizes smaller than #6 require protection.

Can metal clad cable be used underground?

The Metal Clad Cable includes a grounding wire and can be used in outdoor applications. It can go into concealed and unconcealed spaces, and even buried underground. The National Electric Code (NEC), it is also approves it for difficult locations that involve exposure to moisture and hazardous elements.

What is metal clad cable used for?





Metal clad cable can be installed for service, feeder, and branch circuitry. In other words, MC is useful for wiring your main electrical panel from your service head, your sub panel (if applicable) to your main electrical panel, and your individual outlets and lighting circuits from your main electrical panel.

Can armored cable be used as ground?

Armored cable is manufactured to UL standard UL 4 and is limited to four phases and neutral conductors with size limitations of 14 AWG to 1 AWG and contain a 16 AWG bare aluminum bond wire to be used in conjunction with the armor as a ground path.

Can metal clad cable be direct buried?

These cables can be installed either indoors or outdoors and in exposed and concealed locations. They can be direct buried, where identified for such use. They can be installed in a cable tray or in any raceway.

Is metal clad cable waterproof?

The metallic covering is impervious to moisture. A jacket resistant to moisture is provided under the metal covering. The insulated conductors under the metallic covering are listed for use in wet locations.

What’s the difference between metal clad cable and armored cable?





Metal clad cables and armored clad cables are among the most confusing cables on the market. The reason for this is that construction-wise, these cables are more or less similar, and they both feature armor. The main difference between the two cables actually has to do with the grounding rather than the armor.

What is solid metal clad cable?

Metal-clad cable comes in several varieties, but the type you’ll find most commonly is three insulated wires (two circuit conductors and a green equipment grounding conductor) protected by a flexible armor usually made from aluminum. MC cable is identified by the gauge of the wire, not the diameter of the armor.

Why are cables shielded?

Shielded cable acts to reduce volume and intensity of all kinds of electrical noise and EMI, along with the adverse effects it has on signals and transmission. Whether radiated or conducted, EMI can seriously disrupt the proper operation of other equipment.

Is cable tray considered free air?

Answer: Hey Niko thanks for your question. The term “free air” is not defined in the NEC but is usually applied to conductors that are not installed in cable assemblies or raceways.

What type of conduit is approved for direct burial?



UF-B and USE-2 are the standard direct burial cables.

Can you bury metal conduit?

If you use galvanized EMT (metal electrical conduit) with individual conductors inside, you can bury it just 6-inches deep. The idea here is that the EMT can withstand a shovel or other significant potential cause of shorting the wiring.

Does direct burial cable need conduit?

Direct-burial cable does not always need conduit, but it can be run inside the conduit to add additional protection to any electrical system. This type of cable is designed to withstand direct exposure to the soil and moisture and is rated for wet, dry, and damp environments.

Can you use MC cable exposed?



A. Exposed runs of Type MC cable must closely follow the surface of the building finish or running boards. Type MC cable installed on the bottom of floor or ceiling joists must be secured at every joist and not be subject to physical damage [Sec.

Can you use BX cable outside?

Another distinction is that some types of BX cable can be installed in exposed locations, either indoors or outdoors. NM cable and wiring must always be installed in an enclosed location (typically within a wall, ceiling, or under a floor).

What wire Cannot be used in wet locations?

As an example, two of the most common types of wire used in residential projects are THHN and THWN. THHN is thermoplastic, highly heat-resistant (up to 90 degrees C.), and nylon-jacketed. It is not suitable for wet locations.

What cable is suitable for dry locations only?

Type AC cable



Type AC cable is approved by the NEC for use only in dry locations. In order to comply with the NEC for use in wet locations, interlocked Type MC Cable must have a corrosion resistant jacket and wet location rated conductors.

What cable can be submerged in water?

One of the more unique types of wire and cable products is the water-resistant cable, also known as a water block cable or waterproof cable. These types of wiring products are unique in not only construction but also installation and application.

What is difference between Armoured cable and flexible cable?

Metal-clad cables are typically galvanized steel or aluminum interlocking cable. And some companies’ armored cables, such as Mencom, use a woven flexible stainless-steel design. A big difference in the three designs is in how they are ground.

Should shielding be grounded?

The cable shielding and its termination must provide a low-impedance path to ground. A shielded cable that is not grounded does not work effectively. Any disruptions in the path can raise the impedance and lower the shielding effectiveness. 1.

When should you use armored cable?



Armored cables provide the protection and durability required without the need for electrical conduit, elbows, costly offsets, and conduit couplings. Metal-clad armor resists corrosion, making it suitable for areas exposed to moisture.