NM-B wire is a specialized non-metallic electrical cable designed for residential building wiring applications. This high-quality cable features multiple layers of protection and meets stringent safety standards.
The conductor is made of annealed copper that complies with ASTM B3 standards, ensuring excellent conductivity and durability. The insulation consists of PVC type THHN material, with color coding for easy identification - white and black for 2-conductor versions, with additional red for 3-conductor configurations.
For added protection, the grounding conductor is wrapped with kraft paper tape. The core features a nylon jacket, with all conductors laid parallel and wrapped in kraft paper tape. The outer jacket is made of flame retardant PVC material rated for 90°C operation.
This NM-B cable is specifically designed for use in damp or wet locations within residential buildings. Common applications include wiring for washing machines, dishwashers, switches, tile walls, and lighting fixtures. The tough PVC outer jacket provides sufficient protection without requiring additional conduit in most applications.
The ground wire in this configuration does not require separate insulation, with strands protected by paper wrappers. This design meets UL719 standards for safety and performance in building wiring applications.