What Type of Wiring Is Used in Commercial Properties?

Commercial electrical systems are different from those commonly found in residential structures. Although both must follow the NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, commercial wiring systems must meet the requirements specified in Chapter 3.

These systems have to support devices used for daily business purposes and carry heavier electrical loads than those installed in houses. So, they require more heavy-duty materials and features. Different types of wiring systems have been developed to support commercial establishments. Read on to learn more about them.

Raceway and Conductor

A raceway is the enclosure or support of commercial electrical cables or conductors. The rigid conduit or tubing of the raceway can be made of metallic or nonmetallic materials paired with multiple insulated phases. The width requirement of the tubing according to local codes depends on the thickness of the cables inside it. The system may also require a grounded conductor depending on the use and the material of the raceway.

Raceway and conductor systems are custom-designed for the specific building structure and the commercial application they will be used for. There are also various types of raceway tubes made from materials especially utilized for certain applications. For example, the rigid metal conduit (RMC) type is a galvanized steel conduit with a thick wall and zinc coatings on both its exterior and interior surfaces. This raceway is best if the system needs a sturdy exterior that will not be easily damaged.

Busway

A busway or bus duct is a commercial electrical system commonly used for data centers, industrial facilities, and petrochemical utilities. It is composed of a rectangular metal raceway combined with busbars. These are thick strips of copper or aluminum that conduct electricity within the system.

Although they come in other shapes, the rectangular form is ideal because it has the highest conductivity. It also has the highest surface-area-to-volume ratio, which leads to a cooler system.

Manufactured Cable Assembly

A cable assembly is a group of multiple wires bound or assembled to form a single unit for easier installation, organization, repair, and replacement. A manufactured cable assembly is comprised of several neutral and insulated phase conductors grouped with a grounding conductor. These conductors are then enveloped in a protective sheath.

Reach Out to Our Commercial Electrical Company

Learn which commercial wiring system is best for your business. Contact Vintage Electric in Gainesville to have one custom-built for your company.