What is a THHN/PVC Tray Cable? Features and Applications
There are many tray cables on the market, and choosing a particular application could be tricky. THHN PVC is one of the many options to choose from, with the benefits of excellent pricing and a versatile THHN conductor. This post provided by Nassau National Cable explains the main features of THHN PVC tray cables.
Construction of a THHN PVC Tray Cable
THHN PVC tray cable is a multi-conductor cable with thermoplastic insulation and a durable PVC jacket. The conductors of a THHN PVC tray cable consist of multiple strands of THHN. Unlike a regular THHN building wire, THHN PVC is a cable suitable for direct burial. Therefore, when you bury a THHN PVC wire, there is no need for a conduit, unlike with a traditional THHN building wire.
Applications of a THHN PVC Tray Wire
THHN PVC tray cable is suitable for cable trays of all kinds. One thing that distinguishes it from other types of tray cables on the market is that it is relatively cheaper even though it still maintains excellent properties. Therefore, if you are looking for a tray cable on a budget, THHN PVC is perhaps the best option for you. The properties of THHN PVC cables are very similar to XHHW PVC cables, even though the former is generally much cheaper. THHN PVC Tray Cable is a wonderful option for most tray applications unless you need a low-smoke zero-halogen cable.
Due to the THHN PVC construction characteristics, the preferred applications of THHN (THWN) tray cables include industrial applications, minefields, and refineries. The cable is suitable for Class 1 Division 2 applications as per the National Electric Code, which means that the cable is suitable to use in areas with an explosive atmosphere.
The applications of THHN PVC tray cables are not limited to strictly cable trays. Since it is a THHN cable rated for direct burial, you may use it in all instances when you would otherwise use a THHN building wire if you need a benefit of direct burial. When replacing THHN building wire with a THHN PVC Tray Cable, note that the former is a single-conductor cable, while the latter has multiple conductors.
Variations of a THHN PVC Tray Cable
THHN PVC cables are available in 300v and 600v subtypes when it comes to voltage. The low-voltage THHN PVC tray cables are dual-listed as PLTC and ITC (power limited tray cable” and “instrumentation tray cable). The latter rating is for 150 v circuits. Some THHN PVC tray cables have a TC-ER rating, which means that they are suitable for an exposed run. These cables are also equipped with a ground conductor.
There are also shielded THHN PVC tray cables used when there is a need to prevent electromagnetic interference. Some THHN PVC cables are labeled explicitly as control cables for control applications.
If you believe that THHN PVC Tray Cable is the right option for your electrical project, Nassau National Cable carries multiple options for you at some of the best prices in the industry
