Discover the perfect blend of safety and efficiency with AFC cable—an essential component for modern electrical installations. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling a DIY project or a professional contractor, AFC cable offers flexibility, durability, and ease of use. This guide will simplify your shopping experience, helping you choose the right AFC cable to ensure reliable power and long-term performance for your space.
Types of AFC Cable: Comparison Table
| Type | Armor Material | Typical Usage | Conductors | Common Applications | Specialty Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal Clad (MC) Cable | Steel or Aluminum | Commercial, Residential | 2-6+ | Lighting, power distribution | Multiple jacket choices |
| Armored Cable (AC) | Steel | Branch circuits | 2-4 | Lighting, outlet wiring | Ground-wire included |
| HCF Armored Cable | Steel | Healthcare, Critical Facilities | 2-4 | Hospitals, data centers | Enhanced grounding |
| Liquid Tight Flexible | Coated Steel/Alum | Wet, damp, or exposed areas | Varies | Outdoor, washdown, HVAC | Water-resistant armor |
| Fire Alarm MC Cable | Steel/Aluminum | Fire/Safety systems | 2+ | Fire alarms, security | Red colored armor |
| Custom Armoring/Whips | Customer spec’d | Custom, high/low volume | As specified | Equipment drops, OEM builds | Tailored construction |
Understanding AFC Cable Types
1. Metal Clad (MC) Cable
Metal Clad Cable (MC) is one of the most versatile and widely used armored cables available. Featuring interlocked steel or aluminum armor, MC cables offer excellent physical protection for wire conductors while maintaining flexibility for routing through buildings. Inside, you’ll find two or more conductors, including a ground, often rated for 600V.
Common Uses:
– Branch circuit wiring
– Power distribution
– Lighting applications
– Multi-story residential, commercial, and industrial settings
Why Choose MC Cable?
It balances durability, fire resistance, and ease of installation. MC cables also comply with various National Electrical Code (NEC) regulations for commercial and residential wiring.
2. Armored Cable (AC)
Armored Cable (AC), sometimes called BX cable, features a flexible steel armor and is traditional for branch circuit applications. It often includes a bare or green-insulated ground wire integrated with the armor.
Use Cases:
– Indoor wiring (lighting/outlets)
– Retrofit or upgrade projects
Key Benefits:
AC cable is a solid choice for commercial renovations or where enhanced physical protection is needed and code permits.
3. HCF Armored Cable
HCF stands for Healthcare Facilities. This armored cable type is developed specifically for environments with stringent grounding and safety requirements.
Used In:
– Hospitals
– Clinics
– Data centers
Why HCF?
It offers redundant grounding paths and specialized construction for critical care spaces.
4. Liquid Tight Flexible Conduit & Cable
These cables are encased in a watertight, flexible armor—usually steel or aluminum with a UV-stabilized, non-metallic outer jacket. Liquid-tight models are essential where moisture, vapors, or direct sunlight are present.
Ideal For:
– Outdoor installations
– Washdown areas, car washes, pools
– HVAC, compressors, rooftop units
5. Fire Alarm and Control MC Cable
These cables are designed for life safety and building control systems, integrating colored jackets (typically red) for easy identification during installation and inspections.
Typical Applications:
– Fire alarm circuits
– Security, evacuation, and emergency lighting
6. Custom Armoring & Whips
For projects requiring tailor-made solutions (odd lengths, unique conductor combinations, special jackets), custom-armored cables and whips are available, often pre-assembled for rapid installation.
Where Is AFC Cable Used? (Home, Office & Commercial Applications)
AFC cable’s robust, flexible design means it’s suitable for a wide variety of installations, from residential remodels to major office buildings and institutional settings.
Residential Use
- Lighting Circuits: Easier installation through walls and floors; offers added physical protection.
- Kitchens and Appliances: Better suited for areas susceptible to nicks and bumps.
- Upgrades and Renovations: Great for modernizing old wiring to meet current codes.
Office & Institutional Buildings
- Power Distribution: Can be run in exposed or concealed spaces, often used between panels, junction boxes, and outlets.
- Lighting Controls: MC Luminary cables combine power and control, ideal for advanced lighting systems in offices, hotels, and multifamily units.
- Data Centers & Hospitals: HCF armored cables meet enhanced grounding and safety requirements.
Special Environments
- Wet/Outdoor Locations: Liquid-tight conduits are critical where moisture threatens typical wire insulation.
- Fire Alarm and Security: Red-armor MC cables are used for quick identification and compliance on low-voltage, life-safety systems.
AFC Cable Safety Tips
Proper cable choice, installation, and maintenance are key for safety and code compliance. Here are essential guidelines:
- Follow NEC Requirements: Always select cable types and installation methods that meet national and local electrical codes.
- Check for Proper Listing: Look for UL or ETL listed cables to ensure they’ve passed necessary safety standards.
- Install With Approved Fittings: Ensure connectors and supports are listed for use with armored cable types.
- Use Correct Cable For Environment:
- Dry locations: MC or AC
- Damp/wet: Liquid-tight flexible
- Healthcare: HCF AC/MC
- Fire systems: Fire alarm MC
- Never Substitute Ground Conductors: Always use the grounding conductors included with AC/MC cables. The armor alone does not substitute for dedicated grounding.
- Protect during Installation: Avoid kinking, sharp bends, or striking cables, as this can degrade both the armor and insulation.
- Seal Cable Ends: When used in wet locations, liquid-tight and armored cable ends must be properly sealed to prevent moisture ingress.
How to Choose the Right AFC Cable
Choosing the proper armored cable can be daunting, but a few key considerations will make the process straightforward:
1. Identify Application & Environment
- Indoor dry areas: Standard MC or AC
- Wet/outdoor or corrosive: Liquid-tight flexible conduit/cable
- Healthcare/data: HCF MC/AC
- Fire/allergy systems: Red-jacket fire alarm MC cable
2. Match Ampacity to Load
- Ensure the cable’s wire gauge is suitable for the anticipated electrical load. For example, a 12 AWG MC cable can typically support up to 20 amps (confirm with code and load calculations).
3. Select Proper Number of Conductors
- Power circuits may require 2, 3, or more conductors, while lighting control or complex panels may demand multi-conductor MC “home run” cables.
4. Choose Jacket & Armor Material
- Steel armor: Maximum physical protection, higher magnetic properties (can induce heating with some loads).
- Aluminum armor: Lighter weight, less magnetic interference, better for certain specialty applications.
5. Consider Specialty Features
- Color-coded jackets: Improve identification during installation and inspection (common for fire alarm or healthcare cables).
- Custom lengths/precut whips: Reduce labor and waste for repetitive or complex installations.
6. Check Local Code Requirements
- Some municipalities have their own requirements for type and installation of armored cable.
- Always verify with your authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) before final selection.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Plan Cable Runs in Advance: Mark your route to minimize waste and avoid crossing heat sources or sharp edges.
- Use Proper Tools: Use an armored cable cutter to avoid deforming the armor and to keep ends neat.
- Label Cables Clearly: Especially in large installations, label both ends of each cable run to match panel directories or equipment for future troubleshooting.
- Avoid Excess Lengths: Minimize excessively long cable runs to reduce voltage drop and cost.
- Mind Bending Radius: Follow the manufacturer’s minimum bend radius guidelines to ensure wire integrity.
- Inventory Accessories: Stock up on listed connectors, bushings (anti-short), supports, and saddles before starting your job.
- Inspect Before Use: Confirm there are no defects in armor or insulation before pulling cable into place.
- Record Cut Sheet Data: Keep a copy of product cut sheets for each cable type used; this makes inspection and future upgrades easier.
- Keep End-Fittings Clean and Dry: Especially important with liquid-tight and fire alarm cable runs.
- Book Pre-Construction Meetings: For large projects, coordinate with inspectors, AHJs, and designers to avoid change orders later.
Technical Features Comparison Table
| Model / Type | Armor | Conductor Count | Conductor Size (AWG) | Ground Wire | Max Voltage | Length (Reel) | Specialty Jacket | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MC Home Run Cable | Steel | 6 + ground | 12 | Yes | 600V | 1000 ft | No | Multi-conductor Power Runs |
| MC Fire Alarm Cable | Aluminum | 2 + ground | 14 | Yes | 300V | 1000 ft | Red (FPLP) | Fire/Safety Circuits |
| HCF Armored Cable | Steel | 2-4 | 12-14 | Yes | 600V | Varies | Green/gray | Healthcare/Life-Safety Apps |
| Liquid-Tight Flexible | Coated Steel | Varies | 14-10 | Yes | 600V | Spool/Custom | UV resistant | Outdoor/Wet/Industrial |
| Standard Armored (AC/BX) | Steel | 2-4 | 12-14 | Yes | 600V | 250/1000 ft | No | Branch Circuits (dry areas) |
Conclusion
AFC cable offers a reliable, durable, and code-compliant solution for electrical distribution across residential, commercial, and institutional environments. With a variety of types—from fire-rated to liquid-tight and healthcare-specific—you can match your cable selection exactly to the needs of your project. By understanding cable types, application environments, and installation best practices, you’ll ensure not only safety but also efficiency and longevity in your electrical systems.
Before purchasing, always confirm technical specs, compatibility with your local electrical codes, and any specific project requirements. Proper cable choice and installation are vital for reliable, safe, and future-proof wiring.
FAQ
-
What does “armored” mean in AFC cable?
Armored cable refers to electrical wiring that includes a protective metallic jacket (armor), typically made of steel or aluminum. This armor shields the wires inside from mechanical injury, rodents, and some environmental hazards, while allowing flexibility for installation. -
What is the difference between MC and AC cable?
MC (Metal Clad) cable typically features insulated conductors with an additional insulated ground inside a metallic armor, while AC (Armored) cable sometimes uses the armor as the ground path. MC cables are more commonly used in modern installations due to stricter grounding requirements. -
Can AFC cable be used outdoors or in wet locations?
Yes, but only if you choose liquid-tight flexible armored cable designed for wet or outdoor environments. Standard MC or AC cables are not rated for wet conditions unless specifically marked. -
Is AFC armored cable allowed for residential wiring?
Absolutely. AFC armored cables—including MC and AC types—are commonly installed in homes, especially for branch wiring, kitchens, and areas requiring additional protection. -
How do you cut and strip armored cable safely?
Use a specialized armored cable cutter and stripper. Avoid using regular wire cutters, as these can crush the armor or damage the insulation inside. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe and efficient cutting. -
What wire gauge sizes are available for AFC cables?
AFC cables are manufactured in a range of sizes, typically from 14 AWG (smaller residential circuits) up to large feeder sizes for commercial power distribution. Always match the gauge to your load and code requirements. -
Do you need to ground AFC armored cable?
Yes. AFC MC and AC cables include a ground wire. Never use the armor alone as a substitute for a dedicated ground conductor, unless specifically listed for such use and permitted by code. -
What is “home run cable”?
A home run cable refers to a bundled cable that runs directly from the panel to an endpoint (like a junction box or load) without branching. It simplifies multi-circuit installations and reduces labor and waste. -
Can AFC MC cable be bent or flexed?
Yes. MC cable’s interlocked armor provides both flexibility and protection, making it easier to run through tight or complex pathways compared to rigid conduit. Be sure to follow recommended minimum bend radius. -
Why are some AFC cables colored red or green?
Colored armor—red for fire alarm, green for healthcare, etc.—allows for quick identification of circuits dedicated to life-safety or code-specific uses during installation and inspection.
By understanding these factors, you’ll be better equipped to select, install, and maintain AFC cables safely and efficiently for any project.