BX cable, also known as armored cable, is a type of indoor wiring that consists of two or more insulated wires protected by a wound, galvanized steel strip cover. The metal winding forms a flexible tube that provides protection similar to rigid conduit. At the time, BX cable was a significant improvement over the older cloth-sheathed wiring that had been widely used. The new armored design offered better protection against physical damage, and the metal sheath helped ground the electrical system, making it safer. Over time, it became the standard in buildings that needed a more durable, reliable option, especially in environments with high electrical demands. While ill-placed nails or screws can pierce the armor, it remains stronger than the vinyl covering on non-metallic (NM) cables.
Electrical cables are extensively used in building wiring for lighting, power and control circuits permanently installed in buildings. Since all the circuit conductors required can be installed in a cable at one time, installation labor is saved compared to certain other wiring methods. BX wires are a type of metal-clad electrical cable that has been a popular choice for homeowners in the past due to its durability and added protection. Running electric cables from the electrical panel to devices like outlets or switches is crucial to any electrical project. Your choice of cable depends on the requirements of your project and your skill level and experience. A mature positive psychology needs to return to its existential-humanistic roots, because it can both broaden and deepen positive psychology.
BX cable, or armored cable, is an indoor wiring type with insulated wires protected by a flexible, galvanized steel cover, providing enhanced safety and durability. BX cable’s metal armor offers excellent protection against physical threats like nails or screws, making it more durable than NM cables. While old BX wiring can support modern power demands if in good condition, the inner insulation might degrade at exposed ends over time. The main purpose of Bx cable is to protect the electrical wires inside from damage and to provide a pathway for the electricity to flow. The cable consists of a flexible metal sheath, usually made of steel or aluminum, which acts as a protective barrier around the insulated conductors. Bx cable, also known as armored cable or AC cable, is a type of wiring used in electrical circuits.
Residential Use
NM cable and wiring must always be installed in an enclosed location (typically within a wall, ceiling, or under a floor). BX cables have a metal sheath that provides durability and grounding through the armor, while NM cables are made of vinyl and require a separate ground wire. If you’re removing the metal sheath along the length of the cable, you’ll need tools like snippers or pliers to carefully strip away the armor. In summary, the Bx cable is a type of electrical cable that is used for transmitting electricity within a circuit.
Comparing BX Cable with NM and MC Cables
Check with your local building and electrical codes to see if BX cable may be left exposed. Kuhlman Electric™ provides residential and commercial electrical service and repairs for customers located throughout Eastern and Central Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. Kuhlman™ employs the most experienced and skilled licenced electricians in the area.
BX Wiring
- It is commonly used in residential, commercial, outdoor, renovation, and industrial applications due to its reliability and versatility.
- It’s often preferred over non-metallic sheathed cables in environments where extra protection is necessary due to potential physical damage.
- It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations, as it provides excellent protection against moisture, physical damage, and fire hazards.
- After you insert the cable into the tool’s groove, you turn the handle to cause the cutting wheel to cut away the metal sheathing.
- Continuous-flex or flexible cables used in moving applications within cable carriers can be secured using strain relief devices or cable ties.
Home improvement stores usually carry BX cable, though you’ll find more choices of NM or Romex cable.
- It’s simple to cut, rip, and strip, plus it pulls effortlessly through holes in studs.
- BX wiring emerged in the early 20th century for residential and commercial applications.
- This ensures that the BX cable remains functional, safe, and effective in its applications.
Durability and Lifespan
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BX wiring is a set of plastic-coated insulated wires usually bound and protected by a ribbed metal jacket. The metal jacket of BX cable wiring is similar to that of ribbed metal tubing, but it is a metal wire that is wound in a spiral or twisted fashion. After you insert the cable into the tool’s groove, you turn the handle to cause the cutting wheel to cut away the metal sheathing. The tool is calibrated to cut the metal but stops short of touching the inner wires. Rip or cut the outer metal armor of BX cable with a special BX cutting tool or with another cutting tool like a hacksaw, pliers, or snippers.
Before starting the installation of Bx cable, it is important to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials. Let’s explore the details of BX cable, learn about its uses, comparisons and the best way to cut it. By understanding the following, we can better utilize this type of cable product and its solutions in electrical engineering. CENELEC HD 361 is a ratified standard published by CENELEC, which relates to wire and cable marking type, whose goal is to harmonize cables. Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN, VDE) has released a similar standard (DIN VDE 0292).
Armored cable, commonly referred to as BX or AC (Armored Clad) cable, is a type of electrical cable that features a protective outer layer to shield the conductors inside. This outer layer, often made of metal, provides an extra layer bx cable definition of protection against physical damage, making it an ideal choice for certain electrical installations. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of armored cable, including its construction, applications, and advantages over other types of electrical cables. Always be sure to check with your local building and electrical codes as to whether BX cable may be left exposed.