Sorry guys, I still have a problem with the Hidden Treasure In-Wall AC Power Cable - Bulk, by Audience
This is the info printed on the jacket on the cable shown in the picture.
E256938 Type CL2 (UL) FT4 75C 10 AWG ( Website, "Description" says its CL3 (UL) Listed.)
Yes the cable is Listed (UL) as a CL2 (Class 2) cable. But a CL2 cable is not Listed for use as mains power circuit wiring. In wall or not. (Or a CL3 UL Listed for use as in wall power wiring)
CL2 and CL3 circuits falls under NEC Article 725.
Explaining NEC Article 725 on Power-Limited and Remote-Control Circuits
Class 2 and Class 3 Power-Limited and Remote-Control Circuits
- Class 2 Circuits:
- Class 2 circuits operate at up to 30 volts and a power limit of 100 VA. Their goal is to protect from electric shock.
- Typical applications include thermostats, intercoms, automated lighting, and control circuits where power demands are minimal.
- Due to their low power and voltage levels, these circuits pose minimal risk for shock or fire hazards, so NEC permits more relaxed installation methods, like running cables directly along structural elements without the need for extensive conduit protection.
- .
- Class 3 Circuits:
- Class 3 circuits share similarities with Class 2 but allow slightly higher voltage and current levels. Class 3 circuits are allowed to operate up to 150 volts. They are used in more demanding control applications like HVAC or specific industrial settings.
- These circuits require more robust insulation and need additional containment if installed in high-traffic or mechanically vulnerable locations (public corridors, rooms with industrial equipment, etc). In these cases, metal conduits, raceways, or cable trays can be used.
Note this:
- Unlike higher-power circuits, Class 2 and Class 3 circuits do not require a dedicated grounding conductor due to lower voltage.
Audience In-Wall AC cable. Look at the two pictures shown in the article. The first one only shows a shielding drain wire. Not an EGC, (Equipment Grounding Conductor) wire.
The second picture you can clearly see the cable jacket says CL3 (rated ???).
.
Sorry guys, I am back to saying the Audience hidden treasure in wall cable is not interned for use as power in wall branch circuit wiring to feed audio equipment.
I would suggest checking with the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) Electrical Inspection Department in your area before buying.
I will add one thing about the fine stranded #10 wire used in the cable. It could be a burger to terminate on the breaker in the electrical panel and the receptacle outlet you are using. As for the receptacle, use one that has the back wire feature that uses a terminal plate to mechanically clamp down on the wire when tightening the side terminal screw.
As for the breaker termination? Depends on the type of lug used on the breaker. ??? Getting all the fine strands securely supported in the terminal connection of the breaker could be a challenge. Loose stands, just makes the wire gauge smaller.
Finally you might ask is it electrically safe to still use the cable as in wall branch circuit wiring to feed your audio equipment? Question back, Would you feel safe using a 10/3 PVC jacketed flexible power cord as a dedicated branch circuit wiring from the electrical panel to the wall outlet. After all, the flexible 10/3awg power cord is UL Listed for power. Yes it it Listed for use as a power cord, but, not for installing in a wall for branch circuit power wiring.
Jim
.
