Beatrice Lang
BX is a term used to refer to metal-clad electrical cables, also known as armored cables. BX cables are used for electrical installations in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, providing enhanced protection and adaptability. They are known for their durability and metal jacketing, making them a reliable choice for ensuring electrical safety and efficiency. The term BX may be related to the product's initial production in the Bronx borough of New York, with early accounts of its use dating back to 1910.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Metal-clad, armored cable |
| Other Names | Metallic sheathed cable, type AC, MC, Greenfield, armored cable, Armor Clad, Flexible Metal Conduit |
| Composition | Plastic-coated insulated wires bundled and protected by a ribbon-like metal sheathing |
| Wire Gauge | Typically 14- or 12-gauge |
| Use Cases | Residential, Commercial, Industrial |
| Pros | Durable, protective, reliable, fireproof, safe, versatile, good for exposed locations, suitable for retrofit projects |
| Cons | Prone to damage by nails or screws, limited flexibility, heavier and bulkier, potentially higher cost, specific hazards in older versions |
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What You'll Learn
BX is a name for metal-armored electrical cable for indoor or outdoor use
BX cable, also known as metallic sheathed cable, type AC, MC, Greenfield, or armored cable, is a metal-armored electrical cable used for indoor or outdoor applications. It is a collection of plastic-coated insulated wires (usually 14- or 12-gauge) bundled together and protected by a metal sheath. This sheath, which gives the cable its distinctive appearance, is made of a metal strand that twists around the wires in a helix pattern.
BX cable has been used since the early 20th century and was first recorded around 1910, with widespread production and adoption beginning in the 1920s. It was marketed as a modern, safe, and fireproof alternative to older cloth-sheathed wiring. While the origin of the term "BX" is uncertain, it is speculated that it may be related to the product's initial production in the Bronx borough of New York.
The metal armour of BX cables acts as a sturdy barrier, protecting the internal wires from damage. This makes it ideal for installation in areas where there is a high risk of mechanical damage, such as basements, garages, and utility rooms. Additionally, BX cables are often used in retrofit projects and residential construction, particularly in unfinished spaces like attics or crawl spaces.
Compared to non-metallic (NM) cables, BX cables offer the advantage of shielding electric fields (EF) due to their metal sheathing. However, they are slightly more challenging to install and are generally more expensive. Despite this, BX cables remain a viable option for modern projects, providing unique benefits that make them a preferred choice in certain situations.
While BX cables are known for their durability, their armour can still be compromised by determined nails or screws. Older BX wiring may also present specific hazards, such as the absence of a bonding wire, which can cause the armour to become dangerously hot during fault conditions. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the specific requirements of a project before choosing the appropriate type of electrical cable.
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BX cables are versatile, with enhanced protection and adaptability
BX cables, also known as metal-clad or armored cables, are versatile electrical cables that offer enhanced protection and adaptability for various applications.
BX cables are versatile and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. In residential construction, they are often used for wiring through unfinished spaces like attics or crawl spaces. Additionally, BX cables are ideal for exposed locations such as basements, garages, and utility rooms, where the risk of mechanical damage is higher. The metal armour acts as a sturdy barrier, protecting the internal wires from physical harm.
The adaptability of BX cables is further demonstrated in retrofit projects. Adding additional conduit protection can be cumbersome or impractical in retrofit projects, and BX cables provide a flexible solution. Their flexibility allows them to easily pass through walls and navigate obstacles, making them a reliable and robust option for complex wiring needs.
BX cables also offer enhanced protection. The metal armour provides durability and safeguards against electrical hazards. The metal sheathing also absorbs electric fields emitted by the wires and shunts them to the ground, offering an added safety benefit. While the installation process for BX cables may be slightly more complex and time-consuming due to the need to cut through the metal sheathing, it provides peace of mind for long-term electrical applications.
Overall, BX cables are a reliable choice for electricians and homeowners alike. With their versatility, enhanced protection, and adaptability, they continue to be a viable option for modern electrical projects, ensuring safety and efficiency.
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$11.55 $12.55
BX cables are heavier, bulkier, and less flexible than NM cables
BX is a name for metal-armoured electrical cable for indoor or outdoor use. It is also referred to as metallic sheathed cable, type AC, MC, or armoured cable. It is made up of plastic-coated insulated wires bundled and protected by a ribbon-like metal sheathing.
NM, on the other hand, stands for "non-metallic". It is a newer cable that has a smooth vinyl covering that is easy to rip and pull through holes in studs. NM cables are lightweight, easy to handle, and affordable. They can be effortlessly cut, stripped, and pulled, making them a convenient option.
While BX cables are heavier, bulkier, and less flexible than NM cables, they offer some unique benefits. For instance, BX cables have a stronger outer casing than any other type of electrical cable, except for electrical wires that run through rigid metal conduits. This makes BX cables ideal for high-traffic or exposed areas. They are also more fire-resistant compared to NM cables.
The choice between using BX or NM cables depends on the specific requirements of a project. While NM cables are widely used due to their convenience and affordability, BX cables are preferred in situations where their enhanced protection and grounding capabilities are required.
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BX cables are more expensive than NM cables
BX cable, or metal-clad armoured cable, is more expensive than NM (non-metallic) cable. This is due to the differences in material and installation labour costs. NM cables are lightweight, easy to handle, and affordable. They can be easily cut, stripped, and pulled through stud holes, making them a convenient option for residential wiring projects.
On the other hand, BX cables are heavier and bulkier, which can complicate installation and transport. They are also more difficult to install, as cutting the metal sheathing takes more time and requires specialised tools. While BX cables are more expensive, they offer superior protection and are essential in areas prone to physical or environmental stress. They are also more resistant to being chewed through by rodents and other pests.
The choice between NM and BX cables depends on the specific needs of a project. NM cables are cost-effective and sufficient for most residential applications, whereas BX cables are worth the extra investment for those prioritising long-term safety and robustness, especially in commercial or industrial settings.
The cost difference between the two types of cables can vary depending on the project. For a small job, the extra cost of BX cable may only be around $100, while for a large job, the extra cost is unlikely to exceed $1,000.
In summary, BX cables are more expensive than NM cables due to the higher material and installation costs associated with their armoured design. However, the added protection and robustness of BX cables make them a worthwhile investment for certain projects, particularly in commercial and industrial settings.
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Older BX cables are not recognised in the NEC today
BX cable, also known as AC or armoured cable, is a metal-clad electrical cable with a protective metal jacket. It is a collection of plastic-coated insulated wires bundled and protected by a ribbon-like metal sheathing. While the term BX is widely used, its origin is uncertain. Some speculate that it may be related to the product first being produced in the Bronx borough of New York. Early accounts of BX cable being used date back to 1910, with widespread production and use beginning in the 1920s.
Despite being innovative for its time, older BX cables are not recognised in the NEC today due to specific hazards. Early BX versions did not include a bonding wire and relied solely on the armour for grounding, which could cause the armour to become dangerously hot during fault conditions. This issue stems from the metal armour's spiral design around the wires. The interlocking edges are not considered a strong enough electrical link, leading to insufficient ground wire capacity.
Another drawback of older BX cables is their limited flexibility compared to newer cables like NM (non-metallic). This makes installation more challenging in tight spaces and can complicate transport. Additionally, BX cables are heavier and bulkier, and they may be more expensive depending on specific project requirements.
While BX cables are still viable for modern projects and offer unique benefits, older BX wiring should be inspected for safety. If the wire coating inside the sheathing is in bad condition, it should be removed. However, if the old BX wiring is in good condition and can carry today's higher power demands, there is usually no reason to replace it.
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Frequently asked questions
BX stands for a metal-clad electrical cable, also known as armored cable.
BX cables are used for electrical installations in commercial, industrial, and residential environments. Its metal armour acts as a sturdy barrier, protecting the internal wires from physical damage.
BX cables offer enhanced protection and adaptability, making them a versatile choice for electrical installations. They are also durable and provide added protection from electrical fields.
BX cables are heavier and bulkier than non-metallic (NM) cables. They are also more expensive and slightly more difficult to install. Older versions of BX cables also present specific hazards, such as the lack of a bonding wire, which can cause the armour to become dangerously hot during fault conditions.
