1.What Is R90 WIRE and Why Does It Matter?
R90 wire is a high-temperature rated electrical wire commonly used in modern residential, commercial, and industrial installations. Its "R90" designation indicates that it is certified for operation in temperatures up to 90°C, making it safer and more reliable in heat-sensitive environments.
R90 wire offers superior insulation performance, enhanced safety, and is compliant with both CSA and UL standards. It is often chosen for high-load circuits, HVAC units, electric heating systems, and primary service panels.
2.Main specifications and features of R90 wire
R90 wires and cables come in different gauge sizes depending on the required load and application:
R90 WIRE 1AWG: Heavy-duty wire ideal for service feeders and high-load electrical systems.
R90 WIRE 2AWG: A mid-range option suitable for secondary panels or equipment wiring.
R90 CABLE 6AWG: A compact yet powerful solution for HVAC systems, solar installations, or water heaters.
All these options use copper conductors, offer high thermal endurance, and feature PVC or XLPE insulation for lasting durability.
3.Where to Use R90 WIRE
R90 wire is versatile and used in multiple sectors:
Residential Wiring: Electric furnaces, main panels, floor heating, and backup power lines.
Commercial Projects: Lighting networks, elevators, and critical systems needing thermal protection.
Industrial Installations: Machinery, control panels, motor wiring, often with R90 WIRE 1AWG or R90 WIRE 2AWG.
Renewable Energy: R90 CABLE 6AWG is a popular choice for solar panel inverters.
Its 90°C heat rating ensures stable performance even under continuous load conditions.
4.How to Install R90 WIRE Safely and According to Code
Proper installation of R90 wire is essential to meet code and ensure long-term safety:
Installation Conditions: Suitable for dry and damp locations, but not direct burial unless specified.
Wiring Methods: Use conduit, surface-mount trays, or approved raceways.
Minimum Bending Radius: Must be observed during installation to avoid damaging insulation.
Load Calculations: Select the correct size. For example, R90 WIRE 1AWG can support 130–150A depending on ambient temperature and wiring method.
Always follow CEC or NEC guidelines, and consider voltage drop if the cable run is long.
5. Pros and Cons of R90 WIRE
✅ Advantages:
Rated up to 90°C, making it suitable for heat-intensive applications.
Complies with CSA/UL safety standards.
Available in many sizes: R90 WIRE 1AWG, R90 WIRE 2AWG, and R90 CABLE 6AWG.
Excellent insulation properties ensure durability and safety.
❌ Limitations:
Higher cost than basic THHN or NM-B wires.
Requires conduit or protection in exposed areas.
Not designed for underground use without special sheathing.
6.Which Size Fits Your Needs?
To determine which R90 cable is right for your application, evaluate:
Ampacity Requirements: For example, R90 CABLE 6AWG is typically used for devices drawing up to 55A, such as air conditioners or water heaters.
Length of Cable Run: Use R90 WIRE 2AWG or 1AWG for long distances to avoid voltage drops.
Load Type: High-load systems like distribution feeders should use R90 WIRE 1AWG.
A licensed electrician can assist with selecting the proper wire size based on load calculations and local code.
7. R90 WIRE Pricing Guide
Prices vary based on several factors:
Conductor Material: Copper (common) is more expensive than aluminum.
Gauge Size: Larger wire (e.g., R90 WIRE 1AWG) costs more per foot than smaller ones.
Certifications & Brand: CSA or UL-certified wires offer better reliability and compliance.
For mid-range needs, R90 CABLE 6AWG offers good value. Wholesale electrical suppliers or professional distributors are recommended sources for quality-assured purchases.
If you are looking for a cable supplier with international certification, Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd. will be your best choice. Our products are widely certified by multiple authoritative systems such as UL, SAA, VDE, TUV, ISO, etc., ensuring that you have smooth access to markets such as North America, Europe, and Australia. Certification is not only a reflection of our strength, but also a practice of our commitment to quality. Welcome to contact Greater to learn about our certification system and cooperation advantages, and let us work together to ensure the smooth delivery of your project!