1. Why It's Important to Differentiate R90 from RW90 Cables
Whether you're working on residential, commercial, or industrial wiring systems, the cable you choose directly impacts system safety, compliance, and durability. Both R90 and RW90 are widely used in North American electrical systems, particularly in Canada. However, installing the wrong cable can result in code violations, overheating, or even fire hazards. That's why understanding their differences is critical for electricians, engineers, and procurement teams.
2. Definitions: What Are R90 and RW90 Cables?
2.1 What is R90 Cable?
R90 cable is approved under the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and is primarily used in dry indoor conditions. It typically features a copper conductor with XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) insulation. R90 cables are rated for 90°C but do not offer moisture or UV protection.
Common examples include:
R90 WIRE 1AWG – Often used for main feeder lines in commercial buildings.
8AWG R90 – Suitable for mid-level indoor circuits in dry locations.
2.2 What is RW90 Cable?
RW90 cables are designed for wet, dry, and outdoor environments. The "W" indicates "Wet" usage. These cables are moisture-resistant, UV-resistant, and suitable for underground installations. Like R90, they are rated for 90°C and often use XLPE insulation.
Popular examples:
10 awg rw90 and 12 awg rw90 are commonly used in both residential and commercial installations for lighting and receptacle circuits.
3. Key Differences Between R90 and RW90 Cables
The table below summarizes the technical and application differences between R90 and RW90 cables:
| Attribute | R90 Cable | RW90 Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Rating | 90°C | 90°C |
| Insulation Material | XLPE | XLPE |
| Water Resistance | No | Yes |
| UV Resistance | No | Yes |
| Installation Conditions | Dry, indoor | Wet, dry, outdoor, underground |
| Typical Sizes | R90 WIRE 1AWG, 8AWG R90 | 10 awg rw90, 12 awg rw90 |
| Installation Methods | Conduit in dry spaces | Conduit, cable tray, direct burial, exposed |
| Standards | CSA C22.2 No. 38 | CSA C22.2 No. 38, FT4 Fire Rated |
In short, RW90 offers more versatile protection, making it suitable for a wider range of environments.
4. Where RW90 Cable Excels
RW90 cables are the go-to option in environments that require durability and moisture protection. Typical use cases include:
Residential wiring:
12 awg rw90 is ideal for lighting and general receptacle circuits.
Commercial buildings:
10 awg rw90 is commonly used for HVAC systems, lighting networks, and more.
Industrial environments:
Larger sizes like RW90 1AWG or 2AWG are used for heavy-duty power distribution.
Underground installations:
Thanks to its water-resistant and UV-resistant insulation, RW90 is a perfect choice for direct burial.
5. Common Use Cases for R90 Cable
While R90 may lack outdoor durability, it remains an efficient and cost-effective solution for controlled, indoor environments:
Office towers and apartments:
Use R90 WIRE 1AWG for feeder lines to sub-panels or floor-level distribution.
Dry indoor equipment circuits:
8AWG R90 is ideal for HVAC units or other fixed appliances.
Institutions like schools or hospitals:
Where environmental conditions are dry and stable, R90 provides dependable performance at a lower cost.
6. How to Choose Between R90 and RW90
Choosing the right cable requires evaluating multiple factors:
Installation Environment:
For outdoor, wet, or underground scenarios, RW90 is your best bet.
Regulatory Requirements:
Always check CEC or NEC codes for compliance in your area.
Cost vs. Durability:
RW90 offers more features but may be more expensive; R90 is suitable if you're working in dry areas on a tighter budget.
Cable Size and Load Capacity:
Use 10 awg rw90 or 12 awg rw90 for general branch circuits, while R90 WIRE 1AWG or 8AWG R90 work better for heavier loads.
7. Common Misconceptions & Naming Confusion
One of the biggest issues in cable selection is the assumption that R90 and RW90 are interchangeable. This is incorrect. Choosing based on name alone can lead to code violations and safety risks. Always review the full specifications or consult with the manufacturer or a licensed electrician to ensure you're getting the correct product.
Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd. launches a full range of cable products for all walks of life, covering cross-linked cables, PVC cables, rubber cables and silicone cables, meeting various needs from infrastructure construction to high-end medical equipment. We pay attention to every detail, from raw material selection to production process, and strive to ensure that every power transmission of the product is safe and efficient. If you have any questions about cable selection, please contact us and our engineers will recommend the most suitable solution for you.