New solutions save time and money
March 18, 2019The use of metal clad (MC) cable, over traditional conduit, has slowly increased in the U.S. Engineers and contractors in every industry are discovering how much faster and more cost-effectively they can get jobs done using MC cable and fittings. On average there are nine fewer steps needed to install MC cable versus traditional conduit. Plus, MC cables require less equipment, less time and less energy!
Using MC cable can mean saving upwards of 50% on the total installation cost of industrial electrical systems versus pipe and wire – and that’s on top of the money and time saved with simplified ordering and faster delivery. Instead of separately shipping and assembling traditional pipe and wire, MC cable is ready to install as soon as it arrives. MC cable arrives in one shipment, on an easy-to-use reel – it’s ready to install right off the reel, which means fewer tools, equipment and laborers are required, saving time and money!
Another benefit of MC cable is that it's bendable! There are no restrictions to the number of bends, unlike the 360 limit for pipe and wire. No more bending of conduit also saves time, along with the equipment and capital expense, which means saving money.
Traditional aluminum MC cable connectors are ideal for locations that are dry, indoors and don’t experience harsh temperatures or extreme changes in temperature. It is used in of the vast majority of applications. Nickel-plated aluminum MC fittings have additional corrosion-resistance without the high cost of stainless steel but may not be suitable for extremely corrosive environments.
For highly-corrosive environments, stainless steel MC cable and fittings are typically required because they can withstand harsh elements over a longer period of time, and they can even stand up to corrosive chemicals. With the expansion of NEC regulations, MC cable can now be used in wet applications, embedded locations, indoors and outdoors, and in hot and cold temperatures. All of these environments demand the right stainless steel cable and fittings.
Made in the U.S. and rated NEMA 4/IP 65, Remke MC Cable Connectors are in-stock in .5–4 in. hub sizes in aluminum, nickel-plated aluminum and stainless steel. These connectors feature a one-piece compact design that is smaller than other similar connectors in profile and width – meaning easier installations in tight spaces and close spacing of connectors. Remke MC Cable Connectors also feature a unique and patented PowR-LockTM Grounding Seal for superior conductivity and 360-degree strain relief. In addition, disassembly is not required – just push the cable through, tighten the connector and you’re done.
Remke MC Cable Connectors and metal clad cable can be used in water and sewage treatment plants, mining, pulp and paper plants, oil and gas facilities, petrochemical plants, automotive manufacturing and assembly, power generation/power plants, plastics production and container manufacturing, and for temporary power.