Everything you need to know about XLP USE building wire
RHH/RHW-2 XLP/USE Overview
XLP USE building wire is the underground service entrance cable. It has an outstanding ability to survive the pressure. XLP USE cable has oil resistance and gas resistance. Moreover, black USE cables are also resistant to sunlight. Underground service entrance cable is perfect for the application in the industrial setting that requires water resistance. The XLP USE wire can be used as RHH and RHW-2 in both wet and dry industrial environments. XLP USE building cable is mostly used for power distribution in underground service. The voltage rating of USE-2 cable is 600V.
Features of RHH/RHW-2 XLP/USE
XLP USE building wire is often referred to as RHH/RHW, which indicates the fact that it meets UL standard 854 for underground service entrance cables. RHW is the underground service wire for burial. The letters of the name "RHW" stand for the different characteristics of the cable.
The letter "R" stands for the rubber installation of the cable. The cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulates this type of cables. It makes it resistant to extreme heat, sunlight, and moisture. Aside from rubber, RHW cables can incorporate other types of neoprene insulations. The letter "H" indicates heat resistance up to 75°C. "W" stands for water resistance, which indicates that the cables can be put into water. RHW-2 is the subtype of the RHW cable that has a higher heat resistance of 90°C.
RHH is the underground service wire similar to RHW/RHW-2 when it comes to most characteristics. The "HH" in its name means that it has a high heat resistance of 90°C. Unfortunately, RHH cables do not possess water resistance. Therefore, they are suitable for use in dry settings only.
Type RHH or RHW-2 or USE-2 can be used differently according to the specifications provided in the National Electrical Code. When the cable is used as XLP USE-2 aluminum building wire, it is designed for direct burial with temperatures not exceeding 90°C. When used as RHH, the maximum temperature remains the same, but the location should be exclusively dry. As RHW-2, the cable applies to both wet and dry locations.
XLP USE-2 aluminum building wire vs. XLP USE-2 copper conductor
XLP USE is sold with both aluminum and copper conductors. XLP USE-2 copper wire is more popular than XLP USE-2 aluminum wire today. However, the latter is sold at a lower price than the XLP USE-2 copper version. The carrying power of the XLP USE-2 aluminum wire is lower while the impedance is generally higher. A difference in price can serve as a criterion for choosing either aluminum or copper.
There is no reason to suggest that the XLP USE-2 copper conductor is superior to the aluminum version as both have strengths and pitfalls. The copper cable does not require a large conduit and needs less insulation. XLP USE-2 aluminum building wire has a larger diameter than its copper counterpart, which can be a disadvantage in some circumstances. Aluminum cables are more flexible, whereas copper ones are more energy-saving. Though there are subtle differences in the way aluminum and copper wires perform, both materials are effectively used for underground service entrance cable. You can choose the cable that is right for you based on the specifications of your project.
XLP USE cable performs well within the range of the specific applications that it is designed for. Regardless of whether one chooses an aluminum or copper version, excellent performance is guaranteed. The product is suitable for industrial, residential, and commercial applications.
