Product Features
Applications
Cerrowire All-Purpose MC Cable provides a high-performance solution for electrical contractors and DIYers seeking a durable alternative to traditional pipe and wire installations. This metal clad cable features high-strength lightweight aluminum alloy interlocking armor that protects insulated copper conductors while maintaining the flexibility needed for complex routing through walls and ceilings. Designed for versatile application, this assembly eliminates the need for manual conduit bending and wire pulling, significantly reducing labor costs and installation time on the job site.
The internal construction consists of soft-annealed copper power conductors protected by heat-resistant thermoplastic insulation and a nylon jacket. Each cable includes a dedicated green insulated grounding conductor to ensure a reliable path to ground for enhanced safety and code compliance. This multipurpose wiring is suitable for use in commercial, industrial, and multi-residential branch circuits, including power, lighting, and signal distribution. It is specifically engineered to perform in dry locations and can be fished or surface-mounted in accordance with National Electrical Code standards.
- Lightweight aluminum armor offers superior crush resistance compared to plastic alternatives
- Flexible interlocking design allows for easy navigation around structural obstacles
- Pre-stripped and color-coded conductors simplify identification and termination
- Rated for 90 degrees Celsius in dry environments for high-amperage reliability
- UL listed and compliant with federal specifications for assembly and safety
When to specify this product
- Commercial branch circuits and lighting drops
- Power distribution in cable trays or ventilated troughs
- Applications requiring physical protection without the rigidity of EMT
- Use in environmental air-handling spaces per NEC 300.22
When not to specify this product
- Direct burial applications or encasement in concrete
- Areas subject to severe physical damage unless protected
- Wet locations unless the specific MC-PCS or jacketed variant is used
- Highly corrosive environments that may degrade aluminum armor
Selection Checklist
- Confirm conductor ampacity based on NEC Table 310.16
- Verify voltage drop for long circuit runs
- Ensure compatibility with MC-rated connectors and fittings
- Check local building codes for specific metal-clad wiring restrictions
Installation and Integration Notes
- Wiring and Cable Entry: Use only UL listed connectors designed for interlocked armor MC cable. Ensure the anti-short bushing is properly seated to protect conductor insulation from sharp armor edges.
- Support and Securing: Cable must be supported at intervals not exceeding 6 feet. Secure within 12 inches of every outlet box, junction box, or cabinet.
- Grounding: The internal grounding conductor must be terminated at both ends to ensure a continuous low-impedance ground path. The aluminum armor alone is not recognized as an equipment grounding conductor.
- Maintenance: Inspect for armor integrity in areas with vibration or mechanical movement. Aluminum armor is susceptible to galvanic corrosion if in contact with dissimilar metals in moist environments.
Additional Features
Metal-Clad Cable with two-, three-, of four-circuit THHN/THWN conductors, and a bare aluminum grounding/bonding conductor in constant contact with the armor, allowing it to serve as a redundant grounding path. Intended for use in accordance with the National Electrical Code®. Conductor constructions have the insulated conductors cabled together with a separator tape, displaying the identification print legend, wrapped around the assembly. The bare aluminum grounding/bonding conductor is cabled on the outside of the separator tape. An interlocked aluminum armor is applied over the entire construction.
Conductors
- Solid Conductors: Soft, uncoated copper per ASTM B3
- Stranded Conductors: Uncoated copper per ASTM B3, B8, B787
- Bare Grounding/Bonding Conductor: 8000 Series aluminum alloy per ASTM B800; Sizes 12 AWG – 8 AWG
Insulation
THHN/THWN-2 PVC (polyvinyl chloride) with color-coded nylon (polyamide) covering
Jacket
Aluminum-based alloy armor applied over the complete assembly
Industry Standards
UL 1569: E38918
UL 83: E15119
ASTM B3, B8, B787
ASTM B800
FT4/IEEE 1202
NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), Article 330
Federal Specification A-A59544
Surface Print
Armor Coding System:*
- Sequential Footage: shown every two feet
- Footage Marker: Black line = aluminum armor
- Chevron Colors: indicate number & color of conductors
- Chevron Direction: indicates recommended pull direction
- Cable Size: indicates wire gauge & number of conductors
*PATENT PENDING