TFFN Wire

More Information about TFFN Wire

TFFN and THHN are both types of thermoplastic wire, but TFFN is constructed to be more flexible. This makes it the better choice to work with during installation, especially if your wire is likely to be bent in several places or just needs to navigate a congested space. Usually, you might encounter TFFN wire as a stranded type (meaning it is made from several smaller wire strands bundled together). Stranded wire is essential when the application demands a lot of movement from the wire, like firing up an electric motor.

FAQs

What is the difference between THHN and TFFN wires?

While both THHN and TFFN wires are used in electrical installations, THHN is generally more robust and versatile, suitable for both wet and dry locations and for handling higher temperatures. TFFN is more specialized, primarily for dry locations, and tends to be more flexible, making it easier to install in tight spaces or intricate configurations.

What is THWN wire used for?

THWN wire stands for "Thermoplastic Heat- and Water-resistant Nylon-coated" wire. This type of wire is designed to be versatile and robust, capable of operating in both wet and dry environments.

What is the construction of appliance wiring material?

Appliance wiring material (AWM) typically consists of stranded or solid copper conductors insulated with thermoplastic or thermoset materials, designed for internal wiring of appliances and equipment.

Industrial Wire Types: Part 1

THHN

Thermoplastic, High Heat resistant, Nylon jacket insulation (THHN) wire is used in conduit or in cable trays due to its rigidity and tough insulation characteristics. THHN can be stranded (several small strands of wire grouped together), allowing for more flexibility and less chance of breakage, or solid (one wire), which is more durable and rigid. THHN wire is suitable for use in dry locations with temperatures that do not exceed 90 degrees Celsius.

XHHW

Cross-linked polyethylene, High Heat-resistant, Water-resistant (XHHW) wire is very similar to THHN. The difference is that XHHW wire is overall a more durable wire that can withstand higher temperatures and is water resistant. XHHW wire can also be found in both stranded and solid wire options.

MTW

Machine Tool Wire (MTW) wire is much more flexible than THHN wire with insulation that is not as durable, making it a poor choice to run through conduit. The flexibility makes it ideal for winding through tight areas, such as wire ducting in an industrial control cabinet. MTW wire is almost exclusively found in stranded wire, which allows for much of the flexibility and reduces the chances of the wire breaking. MTW wire is intended for use in dry locations that do not exceed 90 degrees Celsius or wet locations that do not to exceed 60 degrees Celsius.