6 Aluminum RHH/RHW-2 XLP USE-2 Direct Burial

Allowable Ampacity for 6 AWG ALUMINUM RHH/RHW-2 XLP USE-2 DIRECT BURIAL: 45 Amps

Description

This cable is a versatile 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) → 55 Amps
• In Direct Burial or Raceway (90°C) → 45 Amps

Common Applications for 6 AWG Cable:

• Secondary underground power distribution for residential and commercial buildings.
• Service entrance wiring from utility transformers to meters or breaker panels.
• Raceway installations where protection against abrasion and heat is needed.
• Direct burial applications for power distribution without requiring conduit.
• Moisture-prone environments, such as underground or outdoor electrical installations.

Also Known As:

6 aluminum rhh wire, 6 aluminum rhw cable, 6 aluminum bury cable, direct burial electrical cable, direct burial power cable, direct burial service entrance cable, direct burial wire, underground electrical wire, direct burial 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: 6

• Stranding: 7

• Conductor Diameter Inches: 0.169

• Insulation Thickness Inches: 0.080

• O.D. Inches: 0.330

• New Weight lb/1000FT: 171 lbs

• Ampacity at 30°C: 55 Amps