In electrical installation and maintenance, wire selection and preparation are two key steps to ensure safety and efficiency. Among the most widely used residential and commercial wires in the North American market, NM-B wire plays an important role. This article will answer in detail the question "How do you strip NM-B wire?" while also expanding on related knowledge such as when and why to strip the wire, precautions, and how to choose the right wire specification. Finally, we will showcase the advantages of choosing our products and services, helping customers make the best purchasing decision.
Basic Knowledge of NM-B Wire
Before learning how to strip NM-B wire, let's first understand its foundation:
- Definition: NM-B (Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable, type B) is a type of non-metallic sheathed electrical cable commonly used for indoor residential and light commercial wiring.
- Structure: It consists of multiple copper conductors (hot, neutral, and ground) enclosed in a PVC jacket.
- Material: Conductors are typically solid copper; insulation is color-coded PVC for easy identification.
- Application: Mainly used for branch circuits, lighting, and receptacles in dry indoor environments.
- Temperature rating: 90°C insulation rating (though limited by code to 60°C ampacity in most residential applications).
Can NM-B Wire Be Stripped?
Yes, NM-B wire can be stripped. Since NM-B comes with an outer PVC jacket that protects the inner conductors, this jacket must be removed to expose the hot, neutral, and ground wires inside before making electrical connections.
When Do You Need to Strip NM-B Wire?
- Before connecting to outlets, switches, or breakers
- When preparing splices inside junction boxes
- During repair or extension of existing circuits
Which Sizes of NM-B Wire Can Be Stripped?
All common NM-B wire sizes can be stripped, including 14 AWG to 6 AWG (standard residential sizes). The stripping method may vary slightly depending on conductor thickness, but the principle is the same.
What Precautions Should You Take When Stripping NM-B Wire?
- Use proper tools: Choose a wire stripper or utility knife designed for NM cable.
- Avoid nicking the conductor: Damaged copper reduces conductivity and weakens the wire.
- Check stripping length: Follow device manufacturer requirements (usually 3/4 inch to 1 inch).
- Turn off power: Always de-energize circuits before working.
- Protect insulation: Do not remove the inner colored PVC insulation on conductors.
How to Strip NM-B Wire
- Cut the cable to the desired length using a cable cutter.
- Score the outer jacket lightly with a utility knife or NM cable ripper, about 2–3 inches from the end.
- Peel back the outer jacket and remove it to expose the insulated hot and neutral conductors plus the bare ground.
- Trim paper fillers if present.
- Strip the inner conductors (hot and neutral) using a wire stripper matched to the gauge.
- Inspect conductors to ensure there are no nicks or damage.
Practical Applications and Examples
Stripping NM-B wire is a routine step in many real-world scenarios. For example:
| Application Scenario | Example | Required Wire Size |
|---|---|---|
| Lighting circuits | Installing ceiling lights | 14/2 NM-B |
| Receptacle circuits | General outlets in living room | 12/2 NM-B |
| Kitchen circuits | Heavy appliances (microwave, dishwasher) | 12/3 or 10/2 NM-B |
| HVAC connection | Furnace or air conditioner | 10/2 or 8/2 NM-B |
How to Choose the Right Wire Specification
Choosing the correct type and size of wire is critical. See the comparison below:
| Wire Type | Key Features | Best Application |
|---|---|---|
| NM-B | Indoor, dry locations; easy to strip | Residential circuits |
| THHN | High-temp, single conductor, conduit use | Industrial and commercial wiring |
| UF-B | Direct burial, moisture resistant | Outdoor and underground wiring |
| XHHW | Excellent heat & moisture resistance | Heavy-duty, high-load circuits |
Choose Our Products and Services
We not only provide professional wire stripping and handling guides, but also offer one-stop supply with clear advantages:
- Product Range: NM-B, THHN, UF-B, XHHW and other UL-listed wires available
- Certification Guarantee: UL & cUL approved, meeting U.S. and Canadian market standards
- Complete Specifications: 14 AWG – 6 AWG standard sizes fully covered
- Strong Supply Capacity: Fast delivery, supporting both small and bulk orders
- Service Advantage: Professional technical support + worry-free pre-sales & after-sales service
- Global Cooperation: Many years of manufacturing & export experience, trusted by global partners
Whether your project is small-scale residential or large commercial, we provide professional technical support and attentive service to help you succeed.
Contact Us
Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd.
Tel/WhatsApp/Wechat: +86 135 1078 4550 / +86 136 6257 9592
Email: manager01@greaterwire.com