MC Cable Wire

Q: What is the temperature rating of MC Cable?

MC Cable is rated 90°C in dry locations and 75°C in wet locations. The ampacity values in NEC Table 310.16 use the 90°C column for conductors rated at or above 90°C, but actual usable ampacity is limited by the termination temperature (typically 75°C per 110.14(C)).

MC Cable stands for Metal Clad Cable. Commercial/industrial alternative to conduit. Faster installation. Available as MC-HL for healthcare.

Dry rating90°C

Wet rating75°C

Voltage600V

Locationsdry, damp, wet (if listed)

Specifications

Property	Value
Full name	Metal Clad Cable
Insulation material	THHN/THWN individual conductors
Outer covering	Interlocking aluminum or steel armor
Temperature rating (dry)	90°C (194°F)
Temperature rating (wet)	75°C (167°F)
Voltage rating	600V
Approved locations	dry, damp, wet (if listed)

When to use MC Cable wire

Commercial/industrial alternative to conduit. Faster installation. Available as MC-HL for healthcare.

Common applications for MC Cable:

Specialized applications - MC Cable is used where its specific temperature and environment ratings are required
See manufacturer specifications for approved installation methods

NEC code references for MC Cable

The NEC defines wire insulation types in Table 310.4(1) (formerly Table 310.104(A)). Key sections that apply:

Table 310.4(1) - lists MC Cable with its temperature rating, insulation material, and approved locations
Table 310.16 - ampacity values for conductors in raceway, cable, or earth (the values shown in our ampacity table above)
Section 110.14(C) - termination temperature limits that determine real-world usable ampacity
Section 310.15(C)(1) - adjustment factors for more than 3 current-carrying conductors in a raceway

Frequently asked questions about MC Cable wire

Where can I use MC Cable wire?

MC Cable is approved for use in dry, damp, wet (if listed) per NEC Table 310.4(1). It has a dry temperature rating of 90°C and a wet rating of 75°C. Always verify that your specific installation meets the approved location requirements.

What is the temperature rating of MC Cable?

MC Cable is rated 90°C in dry locations and 75°C in wet locations. The ampacity values in NEC Table 310.16 use the 90°C column for conductors rated at or above 90°C, but actual usable ampacity is limited by the termination temperature (typically 75°C per 110.14(C)).

Other wire insulation types

THHN 90°C THWN 75°C THWN-2 90°C XHHW 90°C XHHW-2 90°C RHH 90°C RHW-2 90°C USE-2TW 60°C NM-B 60°C UF-B 60°C AC Cable (BX) 90°C SER/SEU 75°C PV Wire 90°C THHW 90°C THW 75°C THW-2 90°C RHW 75°C MI 90°C UF 60°C XHH 90°C FEP 90°C SIS 90°C

Requirements vary by state. NEC edition, licensing, permits, and GFCI rules differ by jurisdiction. Check your state or pick it below for personalized info across WireRef.

Important: For reference only. Not a substitute for a licensed electrician. Electrical work can cause serious injury, death, fire, or property damage if performed incorrectly. Always hire a licensed electrician for electrical work, especially for service upgrades, panel work, and 240V circuits. Values are derived from NFPA 70 (NEC) for educational purposes. Always verify against your locally adopted NEC edition and amendments - local jurisdictions may enforce stricter requirements. WireRef provides reference information only and is not responsible for work performed based on this content. NEC® is a registered trademark of the National Fire Protection Association. Free NEC access via NFPA · OSHA Electrical Safety · Terms of use.

NEC 2023 references verified April 2026