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Improved Grounding Performance

The primary difference between conventional interlocked armor MC cable and MC^AP® cable is how the two ground path components, the interlocked armor and grounding conductor, are combined during construction to form the ground path for interlocked armor Type MC cable – see NEC Permits MC^AP Armor Ground video below.

Conventional MC Cable Ground Path Construction Combination - MC Cable

Ground Path Components

Interlocked metal armor
Green copper ground

Construction Combination

The two ground paths are insulated and isolated from each other throughout the entire cable length.
Interlocked armor IS NOT SUITABLE for grounding by itself however it is part of the ground path.

Ground Path Component Construction Combination - MC^AP® Cable

Ground Path Components

Interlocked metal armor
Aluminum grounding/bonding conductor

Construction Combination

The two ground paths are in intimate contact with each other throughout the entire cable length - this enables the armor to serve as the ground.
Interlocked armor IS SUITABLE for grounding by itself – without the need to terminate the grounding conductor in a metal box or enclosure

Now, based on the component construction combination of MC^AP® Cable, the interlocked armor of MC^AP® cable is suitable for grounding. The armor can now safely carry the maximum fault current likely to be imposed upon it from any point in the wiring system where a ground fault may occur. The armor ground path performance dramatically improved and is equivalent to, if not lower than, a copper equipment grounding conductor – see Copper and MC^AP® Armor Grounds video below

MC^AP® Armor Ground Videos

NEC® Permits MC^AP® Armor Ground Grounding & Bonding: Addresses how the armor of Southwire's MCAP® Cable is listed and identified as an equipment grounding conductor in accordance with the National Electric Code (NEC)®.

Podcast*

Copper and MC^AP® Armor Grounds Grounding & Bonding: Shows how the UL® and NEC® MC Cable grounding performance requirements are the same for a copper ground, an aluminum grounding, and the armor ground path of MCAP® cable.