Have you ever looked at an electrical drawing and seen "AC90" - assuming it's just another plastic-jacketed cable?
In reality, the "outer jacket" of AC90 is one of the most misunderstood details in the wiring world - because sometimes, it doesn't exist at all.
Yes, that's right. Whether AC90 has an outer jacket or not affects more than just appearance - it impacts cost, heat dissipation, installation flexibility, regulatory compliance, and even long-term reliability.
In this article, we'll uncover what the "outer jacket" of AC90 cable actually is, why it's often omitted, what the key standards specify, how it compares with Teck90, and finally - why Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd. is your most trusted partner for AC90 solutions.
Overview of AC90 Cable Structure
Before we dive into the outer jacket, let's first understand how an AC90 cable is built - and what role the jacket plays within the entire structure.
What is AC90?
- Definition: AC90 (Armored Cable 90 °C) refers to a type of metal-clad electrical cable rated for 90 °C operation, primarily used in dry locations for lighting, power distribution, and control circuits.
- Standard: It's manufactured in accordance with UL and CSA C22.2 No. 51 standards.
- Typical applications: Building interiors, electrical rooms, manufacturing facilities, and other dry or ventilated spaces requiring both electrical safety and mechanical protection.
Structure Layers - From Inside Out
A standard AC90 cable typically includes:
- Conductor (Core Wire) – Copper or aluminum, responsible for carrying current.
- Insulation Layer – Usually XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene), providing high dielectric strength and heat resistance.
- Binder or Filler Layer – Moisture barrier tape or polymer fillers that hold conductors in place and prevent internal friction.
- Armor Layer – Interlocked aluminum or steel tape that provides mechanical protection and support.
- Outer Jacket (Sheath) – The outermost layer that protects the inner components from moisture, chemicals, UV radiation, and abrasion.
In this structure, the outer jacket is the final protective shield - a critical factor that determines the cable's overall safety, durability, and compliance.
Why AC90 Cable Has No Outer Jacket - and Why That Matters
It might sound like "no jacket" is a drawback - but it's actually one of AC90's smartest design advantages.
Here's why this minimalist structure makes sense:
Key Benefits of the "No Outer Jacket" Design
- Cost Efficiency
Fewer materials mean lower manufacturing and transportation costs.
Especially attractive for large-scale installations or tight project budgets.
- Improved Heat Dissipation
Without an insulating jacket, the armor directly contacts air or conduit surfaces, reducing heat buildup and improving ampacity stability.
- Compact Size & Easier Pulling
No extra jacket layer → smaller diameter → more cables fit per tray or conduit.
- Grounding Convenience
The metallic armor doubles as a grounding path - no plastic barrier means easy bonding and continuity.
- Installation Flexibility
The interlocked metal sheath is both strong and flexible, perfect for bends, tight spaces, and complex runs.
- Code Compliance
AC90's design aligns with CSA standards for armored cables - adding extra sheathing may change its certification status.
⚠️ Note: In wet or chemically aggressive environments, additional protection (such as a PVC sheath) may still be necessary - or you might consider Teck90 instead.
Standards and Technical Specifications of AC90 Cable
AC90 cables are manufactured in strict accordance with CSA C22.2 No. 51 - the Canadian standard for armored cables. They are rated for 600 V and designed to operate at 90 °C in dry locations and 75 °C in damp areas. Each cable undergoes –40 °C cold bend and impact tests, ensuring flexibility and mechanical strength even in low-temperature environments.
In addition, AC90 products meet FT4 flame resistance requirements and are fully CSA certified, guaranteeing electrical safety and long-term reliability. Typical constructions include copper or aluminum conductors, XLPE insulation, and interlocked aluminum armor, providing both mechanical protection and grounding capability.
These standards make AC90 ideal for commercial, industrial, and residential installations where high safety, durability, and compliance are essential.
AC90 vs. Teck90 - Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | AC90 | Teck90 (TECK-90) |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Armored cable with interlocked metal armor, typically no plastic jacket | Armored cable with (or optionally without) PVC or thermoplastic outer jacket |
| Standard | CSA C22.2 No. 51 | CSA C22.2 No. 131 |
| Temperature Rating | 90 °C (dry) | 90 °C (dry); varies with material |
| Outer Jacket | None (armor is outermost layer) | Usually black PVC or other thermoplastic material |
| Can the Jacket Be Removed? | N/A | Not recommended - removing the jacket voids certification (Eng-Tips discussion) |
| Usage Environment | Dry locations, trays, conduits | Indoor/outdoor, wet, corrosive, underground, exposed |
| Protection | Armor provides mechanical & EMI shielding | Armor + outer jacket provide full environmental protection |
| Cost & Size | Lower cost, smaller diameter | Slightly higher cost, better environmental resistance |
As electrical professionals point out:
"The jacket is part of the approval of the cable - with the jacket removed, the cable is no longer approved."
In short: AC90 is great for indoor, dry, cost-sensitive projects; Teck90 is better for demanding outdoor or wet environments.
Why Choose Our AC90 Cable Solutions
Now that you understand the technical side, here's why Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd. stands out in the AC90 market:
- Full UL & CUL Certification
Every model in our AC90 series is fully certified to UL and CUL standards - ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance for North American and global markets.
- Extensive Project Experience & Flexible Supply
From large-scale infrastructure to smaller commercial builds, we provide tailored specifications, documentation, and consistent delivery timelines.
- Comprehensive Technical Support - 24/7 Availability
Our professional engineering and service team offers continuous pre-sales and after-sales support to solve any technical questions you may have.
- Strict Quality Control & Premium Materials
We carefully select jacket compounds and additives to ensure superior flame retardancy, weather resistance, and mechanical strength.
- Fast Response & Global Logistics
With advanced manufacturing facilities and efficient distribution, we deliver quickly to meet project deadlines without compromising quality.
Contact Us
Dongguan Greater Wire & Cable Co., Ltd.
📞 Tel / WhatsApp / WeChat: +86 135 1078 4550 | +86 136 6257 9592
📧 Email: manager01@greaterwire.com
We look forward to collaborating with you - empowering your next project with reliable, certified AC90 cable solutions.