What Is RW90 Cable?

RW90 cable is a single-conductor electrical cable designed for power distribution in dry and damp environments. It features copper or aluminum conductors insulated with cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE), a thermoset material known for its thermal and mechanical durability. The designation "RW90" reflects its maximum operating temperature of 90°C in dry conditions and its suitability for resistant wiring applications. RW90 cables are commonly used in indoor and outdoor settings, offering a cost-effective alternative to other XLPE-insulated cables like RWU90 or XHHW, as discussed in prior articles on XHHW vs. XLPE, RHW-2 vs. RWU90, and cable jackets.

Does RW90 Cable Require Conduit?

RW90 cable typically requires conduit in most installations to ensure mechanical protection and environmental resistance, particularly in outdoor or underground applications. Key considerations include:

• Indoor Installations: In dry environments, such as commercial buildings, RW90 is often installed in conduits, cable trays, or raceways to protect against physical damage and ensure organized wiring.
• Outdoor Installations: For outdoor or damp locations, RW90 must be housed in conduits, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), to shield it from moisture, UV radiation, and mechanical stress. RW90 is not rated for direct burial without conduit, unlike RWU90 cables.
• Underground Installations: When used underground, RW90 requires conduit to prevent moisture ingress and physical damage, ensuring long-term reliability. Conduit materials like PVC or rigid metal conduit (RMC) are commonly used.
• Exposed Installations: RW90 is not designed for open-air installation without protection, as its XLPE insulation, while moisture-resistant, lacks the additional sheathing needed for direct exposure.

In contrast, cables like RWU90, with waterproof sheathing, can be directly buried without conduit, making them more suitable for certain underground applications. Conduit use with RW90 enhances safety and durability, aligning with installation practices for THHN or XHHW cables.

Properties of RW90 Cable

RW90 cables exhibit properties that make them suitable for various electrical applications:

• Temperature Range: Rated for -40°C to 90°C in dry conditions and up to 90°C in damp conditions, ensuring performance across diverse climates.
• Voltage Rating: Rated for 600V or 1000V, suitable for low-voltage power distribution and branch circuits.
• Moisture Resistance: XLPE insulation provides good protection against moisture, making RW90 viable in damp locations when properly protected.
• Chemical Resistance: Resistant to oils, grease, and chemicals, RW90 withstands moderate industrial environments.
• UV Resistance: XLPE insulation offers resistance to ultraviolet radiation, supporting outdoor use with conduit protection.
• Mechanical Strength: XLPE’s cross-linked structure provides high tensile strength, resisting abrasion during installation.

These properties make RW90 a versatile option, comparable to XHHW or THHN cables, as discussed in prior articles.

Advantages of RW90 Cable

RW90 cables offer several benefits that contribute to their popularity:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Aluminum RW90 cables are more affordable than copper equivalents, ideal for budget-conscious projects, similar to PVC cables.
• Heat Resistance: Operate reliably at 90°C, surpassing PVC-insulated cables (70°C), akin to XHHW cables.
• Moisture Resistance: XLPE insulation ensures performance in damp environments, reducing corrosion risks when used with conduit.
• Durability: XLPE’s mechanical strength extends lifespan in demanding settings, like DLO or XHHW cables.
• Versatility: Suitable for conduits, cable trays, and raceways, supporting diverse installation methods, similar to multi-conductor cables.
• Lightweight: Aluminum conductors reduce weight compared to copper, easing installation, as noted in 2 AWG vs. 2/0 AWG discussions.

These advantages position RW90 as a practical choice for reliable wiring.

Applications of RW90 Cable

RW90 cables are used across various sectors, similar to applications of AWG, 6 AWG, XHHW, and photovoltaic cables:

• Commercial Buildings: Powers lighting, HVAC, and distribution panels in offices, using conduits for protection, as discussed in XHHW vs. XLPE articles.
• Industrial Facilities: Supports motors, control systems, and machinery in factories, leveraging chemical resistance, akin to DLO cables.
• Outdoor Wiring: Used in conduit-protected outdoor setups, such as parking lot lighting or signage, similar to solar cables.
• Underground Installations: Powers detached structures or equipment through conduit-housed runs, as opposed to direct-burial RWU90 cables.
• Renewable Energy: Connects components in photovoltaic systems within conduits, benefiting from UV resistance, like photovoltaic cables.

These applications underscore RW90’s role in versatile, protected installations.

Summary of RW90 Cable Characteristics

The table below summarizes the key characteristics of RW90 cables, highlighting their properties and installation requirements:

Tips for Selecting and Installing RW90 Cable

Choosing and installing RW90 cables ensures performance and safety:

• Assess Installation Environment: Use RW90 in conduits for outdoor or damp locations; for direct burial, consider RWU90, as discussed in RHW-2 vs. RWU90 articles.
• Select Conduit Type: Choose PVC or HDPE for underground installations, or RMC for high-impact areas, similar to THHN or XHHW practices.
• Evaluate Load Requirements: Select conductor sizes (e.g., 2 AWG for 115A, copper) using ampacity guidelines, as discussed in AWG and 2 AWG vs. 2/0 AWG articles.
• Consider Conductor Material: Opt for aluminum for cost savings in long runs, or copper for higher efficiency, as noted in grounding discussions.
• Ensure Proper Routing: Route RW90 through conduits or trays to avoid mechanical damage, aligning with multi-conductor cable practices.
• Consult Professionals: Engage electricians to verify sizing, conduit selection, and installation, ensuring reliability, as with household or photovoltaic cables.

These steps align with selecting reliable cables like TR-XLPE, XHHW, or photovoltaic cables.

Conclusion

RW90 cable, with its XLPE insulation and 90°C temperature rating, is a versatile option for power distribution in dry and damp environments, but it typically requires conduit for outdoor, underground, or exposed installations to ensure mechanical and environmental protection. Its properties, including moisture, chemical, and UV resistance, make it suitable for commercial, industrial, and renewable energy applications, though it is not designed for direct burial without conduit, unlike RWU90. By selecting appropriate conductor sizes, conduit types, and installation methods, users can leverage RW90’s cost-effectiveness and durability, building on discussions of AWG, cable jackets, PVC cables, XHHW vs. XLPE, and RHW-2 vs. RWU90. Professional consultation enhances the reliability of RW90 cable installations, supporting robust electrical systems across various sectors.