2 ALUMINUM RHH/RHW-2 XLP USE-2 DIRECT BURIAL

Allowable Ampacity for 2 AWG ALUMINUM RHH/RHW-2 XLP USE-2 DIRECT BURIAL: 95 Amps

Description

This cable is a high-capacity power distribution cable with multiple ratings—RHH, RHW-2, XLP, and USE-2—designed for underground and raceway installations. The RHH rating indicates heat resistance for dry locations, while RHW-2 ensures water resistance and a 90°C maximum operating temperature in both wet and dry conditions. The XLP (cross-linked polyethylene) insulation enhances durability, abrasion resistance, and electrical performance. The USE-2 rating makes it suitable for service entrance installations below ground and direct burial.

USE-2 cables are commonly used for power distribution, service entrance below ground, and direct burial, as well as in raceways. This electrical cable is approved under the National Electrical Code (NEC), except for use in cable trays. It supports a voltage rating of 600V and operates at a maximum temperature of 90°C in wet and dry environments.

Ampacity Ratings (Per NEC 310.16):

• In Free Air (90°C) → 115 Amps
• In Direct Burial or Raceway (90°C) → 95 Amps

Common Applications for 2 AWG Cable:

• Primary and secondary underground power distribution for large residential and commercial buildings.
• Service entrance wiring for higher-capacity single-phase and three-phase systems.
• Feeder circuits supplying power to large electrical panels, subpanels, and industrial loads.
• Direct burial installations where higher ampacity and long-distance power transmission are required.
• Utility, industrial, and agricultural applications needing durable, moisture-resistant underground wiring.

This 2 AWG aluminum cable is commonly selected for high-power service entrances, long-run feeder circuits, and direct burial installations requiring up to 95 amps.

Also Known As:

2 aluminum rhh wire, 2 aluminum rhw cable, 2 aluminum bury cable, 2 direct burial electrical cable, 2 direct burial power cable, 2 95 amp direct burial cable, direct burial service entrance cable.

Standards:

• UL 44
• UL 854
• NEMA WC 70/ICEA S-95-658
• Requirements of the National Electrical Code
• ASTM B800, B801, B836
• Sunlight resistant
• Oil Resistant PRI/PRII
• Gas and Oil Res GRI/GRII
• RUS ACCEPTED

Construction

Conductors:

Compact bare 8000 series aluminum, with Class B stranding per ASTM. 

Insulation:

Abrasion, heat and moisture resistant cross-linked polyethylene insulation (XLP)

Specifications:

• Gauge: 2

• Stranding: 7

• Conductor Diameter Inches: 0.268

• Insulation Thickness Inches: 0.080

• O.D. Inches: 0.430

• New Weight lb/1000FT: 337 lbs

• Ampacity at 30°C: 95 Amps