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There are many different types of electrical wire. Each different kind of electrical wire is perfect for a different job. The wires even have different kinds of insulation and protection; this is what makes each one perfect for a different application. There is THHN and TFFN wires which are very similar. Then there are the NM-B and Romex wires and even the MC Conduit cable. All of these wires are perfect for electrical work indoors and some of them can also be used outside, and in conduit. TFFN and THHN Both of these wire names are abbreviations. TFFN stands for thermoplastic insulation, flexible, fixture, and nylon coating. While the THHN stands for thermoplastic insulation, heat resistant, high heat resistant, and nylon coating. Then throw in that some of the THHN wires come even in a water, gas and oil resistant form, and you get THWN wire. These are all single conductor copper wires that can be used both indoors, outdoors and in conduit. NM-B and Romex Romex is the Southwire brand of an NM-B cable. Now the NM stands for non-metallic. This means that instead of the wire being incased in a metal jacket. The NM-B cable has a PVC jacket around the multiple electrical conductors it holds. Now this version of electrical wire can only be used indoors. The wire does not have enough protection on it to be used outside. The most typical use for this kind of wire is in insulated homes and buildings, running power from electrical boxes to outlets, lights and appliances. MC Conduit Cable This kind of electrical cable is very different from the NM-B cable. That is because the MC Conduit cable is metal clad. This kind of electrical cable has an aluminum interlocked armor jacket instead of the typical PVC. The aluminum jacket around the wires conductors is meant to act as a conduit so there won't be a need for one when it's being installed. This design is also meant to speed up the installation process, in turn saving electricians and contractors both time and money. Each one of these electrical wires can be used indoors as building wire. Most can even be used outdoors in Electrical conduit as well. Now even though all of these wires are somewhat similar, they are still different, hence the variation in applications. Make sure to check out all of your options to find the right wire for your next job or Electrical project!
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