Tech cables are widely used in industrial, commercial, and residential applications due to their durability, moisture resistance, and protection against mechanical damage. Among the various types, Tech 2/3 armored cable is commonly chosen for its capacity to carry significant electrical loads while providing excellent shielding. One key specification often required for installation is its overall diameter.
What is the precise overall diameter of a Tech 2/3 armored cabl
Understanding Tech 2/3 Armored Cable
To determine the diameter, it’s important to understand what the name “Tech 2/3” means:
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Tech refers to Teck90 cable, a Canadian-standard armored electrical cable used for power distribution in harsh environments. It’s constructed with copper conductors, a cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation, an inner PVC jacket, aluminum interlocking armor, and a final outer PVC jacket.
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2/3 specifies that the cable contains two conductors of 3 AWG plus one bare ground wire.
This type of cable is often used for subpanels, pumps, HVAC units, and other high-draw electrical equipment.
Typical Diameter of Tech 2/3 Cable
The average overall diameter of a Tech 2/3 armored cable generally falls in the range of:
1.05 inches to 1.20 inches
(26.7 mm to 30.5 mm)
This range can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and specific construction materials (e.g., thickness of armor or jacket). It’s always recommended to consult the technical datasheet provided by the cable manufacturer to confirm the exact diameter for your application.
Example Specification (Approximate):
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Conductor Size | 3 AWG (x2) + Ground |
| Armor Type | Aluminum Interlocked Armor |
| Outer Jacket | PVC, Flame Retardant |
| Typical Diameter | 1.12 inches (28.5 mm) |
| Approx. Weight | 1.2 kg/m (0.81 lb/ft) |
Why the Diameter Matters
Knowing the precise diameter of Tech 2/3 armored cable is essential for:
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Conduit sizing: Ensures compliance with electrical code fill ratios.
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Drilling and pass-throughs: Avoids undersized or oversized wall/floor openings.
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Bend radius planning: Helps maintain minimum bend radii to avoid cable damage.
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Cable tray or support systems: Assists in determining correct spacing and structural capacity.
Improper assumptions about cable size can lead to code violations, mechanical failures, or unsafe installations.
Where to Find Exact Dimensions
Manufacturers such as Southwire, Nexans, and Prysmian provide technical datasheets for every cable type. Always reference these for:
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Exact outer diameter
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Minimum bend radiAmpacity ratings
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Weight per foot/metre
Conclusion
The diameter of a Tech 2/3 armored cable typically ranges from 1.05″ to 1.20″, depending on the manufacturer and construction specifics. This measurement plays a critical role in proper planning and safe installation. Always consult up-to-date manufacturer specifications or an electrician before proceeding with your project.
