Which type of cable would you typically use for power distribution in industrial settings?

Type MC cable, or Metal-Clad cable, is highly suitable for power distribution in industrial settings due to its durable construction and versatility. It consists of insulated conductors enclosed in an interlocking metal sheath, providing extra protection against physical damage, moisture, and various chemicals typically found in industrial environments.

The metal-clad exterior not only offers mechanical protection but also provides a grounding path, which is essential for safety in power distribution. This type of cable is often used for branch circuits, feeders, and service entrance applications where the cable may be exposed to harsh conditions.

The other types of cable mentioned have specific applications that do not align as closely with the demands of industrial power distribution. Type TC (Tray Cable) is primarily used for load connections and control circuits but generally lacks the robust protection of MC cable. Type NM (Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable) is intended for residential wiring and is not suitable for the harsher conditions found in industrial settings. Type RMC (Rigid Metal Conduit) is not a cable type but rather a type of raceway for protecting electrical conductors, and while it’s used in industrial settings, it does not function as a standalone cable for power distribution.

Thus, Type MC is the most appropriate choice for