1.What Is XHHW Wire?
XHHW stands for Cross-Linked Polyethylene High Heat-Resistant and Water-Resistant wire. It features a thermoset insulation system that provides excellent thermal stability, chemical resistance, and mechanical durability. The wire is rated for up to 90°C in dry conditions and 75°C in wet environments, making it ideal for demanding applications.
Key features include:
UV resistance (varies by type, e.g., XHHW-2).
Flame retardancy.
Resistance to oils, acids, and moisture.
2.Can XHHW Wire Be Exposed to Sunlight?
The answer depends on the specific type of XHHW wire. Standard XHHW is not inherently UV-resistant and requires conduit or protective covering for prolonged outdoor exposure. However, XHHW-2 wire, a premium variant, is designed with enhanced UV stabilization, allowing it to withstand direct sunlight without degradation.
Why sunlight resistance matters:
UV rays break down conventional insulation over time.
Outdoor installations (e.g., solar farms, rooftop wiring) demand UV-rated materials.
Compliance with NEC (National Electrical Code) standards for exposed wiring.
For applications like solar panel arrays or outdoor lighting, XHHW-2 aluminum underground cables or 6AWG XHHW copper wire with UV-resistant jackets are recommended.
3.Performance Advantages of XHHW Wire
3.1. Heat and Chemical Resistance
XHHW's cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation retains integrity at high temperatures, outperforming PVC-insulated wires. This makes it suitable for industrial machinery, HVAC systems, and underground conduits.
3.2. Water and Moisture Resistance
The "W" in XHHW denotes water resistance. Paired with its thermoset insulation, it's ideal for wet locations, such as wastewater treatment plants or outdoor subpanels.
3.3 Flexibility and Durability
XHHW's robust construction resists abrasion, crushing, and rodent damage. Larger gauges like 1/0 XHHW copper wire are preferred for heavy-load circuits in factories or data centers.
3.4. Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to metal-clad cables, XHHW offers similar protection at a lower cost. Aluminum variants like XHHW-2 aluminum underground reduce material expenses for large-scale projects.
4.Key XHHW Products and Their Applications
4AWG XHHW Copper Wire
Applications: Service entrance conductors, feeder lines for commercial buildings.
Benefits: High ampacity (up to 85A at 75°C), compact design for conduit use.
6AWG XHHW Copper Wire
Applications: Subpanel connections, motor circuits, and outdoor lighting.
Benefits: Balances flexibility and current capacity (55–65A).
1/0 XHHW Copper Wire
Applications: High-demand circuits (e.g., industrial machinery, EV charging stations).
Benefits: Handles up to 150A, ideal for long-distance power transmission.
XHHW-2 Aluminum Underground Cable
Applications: Direct burial for outdoor lighting, irrigation systems, and renewable energy projects.
Benefits: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-efficient for large installations.
5.XHHW vs. XHWN Wire: What's the Difference?
While XHHW and XHWN wire share similar insulation materials, XHWN (Nylon-jacketed) offers additional mechanical protection. However, XHWN is not UV-rated and requires conduit for outdoor use. XHHW-2 remains the superior choice for sunlight-exposed installations.
6.Installation Best Practices
Outdoor Use: Always opt for UV-resistant XHHW-2 and follow NEC Article 310 for ampacity adjustments.
Underground Use: Use XHHW-2 aluminum underground cables with proper burial depth (24+ inches) and conduit in rocky soils.
Conduit Fill: Avoid exceeding 40% fill capacity for heat dissipation.
7.Market Trends and Sustainability
The demand for XHHW wire is rising due to renewable energy projects and infrastructure upgrades. Aluminum variants like XHHW-2 aluminum underground are gaining traction for their eco-friendly profile and recyclability.
8.FAQs About XHHW Wire
Q: Can standard XHHW be used outdoors?
A: Only with conduit or UV-protective covering.
Q: Is XHHW-2 suitable for direct burial?
A: Yes, especially in configurations like XHHW-2 aluminum underground.
Q: How does 4AWG XHHW compare to 6AWG?
A: 4AWG carries higher current but is less flexible.
Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd. has established itself in the American market with its strong production strength. We have 240 advanced production equipments, and we strictly control every process from raw material testing to finished product delivery. In terms of R&D, we invest 20 million yuan every year in the research and development of new technologies and new products, and have successfully launched a number of innovative cable products that meet the needs of the US market. The company has a complete range of UL certified products, including UL83, UL44, UL719, etc., which means that our THHN WIRE, XHHW WIRE and other products are far superior to their peers in terms of safety and durability. However, our prices are more affordable, saving a lot of costs for American builders and contractors, and we are your reliable partner.