700 MCM Aluminum RHH/RHW-2 XLP USE-2 Direct Burial

Allowable Ampacity for 700 MCM ALUMINUM RHH/RHW-2 XLP USE-2 DIRECT BURIAL: 480 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 ensures heat resistance in dry locations, while RHW-2 makes it water-resistant and suitable for 90°C operation in both wet and dry conditions. The XLP (cross-linked polyethylene) insulation enhances durability, abrasion resistance, and electrical performance. The USE-2 rating allows for direct burial and underground service entrance installations.

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) → 535 Amps
• In Direct Burial or Raceway (90°C) → 480 Amps

Common Applications for 700 MCM Cable:

• Primary and secondary underground power distribution for large-scale industrial plants, substations, and commercial facilities.
• Service entrance wiring for high-capacity single-phase and three-phase electrical systems.
• Feeder circuits supplying power to high-load switchgear, distribution panels, and large industrial equipment.
• Direct burial installations for long-distance high-power transmission with minimal voltage drop.
• Utility, infrastructure, and heavy-duty agricultural applications requiring high ampacity and moisture resistance.

This 700 MCM aluminum cable is commonly used for large-scale power distribution, industrial feeder circuits, and underground installations requiring up to 480 amps.

Also Known As:

700 mcm wire, 700 mcm aluminum wire, 700 mcm wire size, rhh wire, rhh cable, bury cable, direct burial electrical cable, direct burial mc 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: 700

• Stranding: 58

• Conductor Diameter Inches: 1.059

• Insulation Thickness Inches: 0.135

• O.D. Inches: 1.147

• New Weight lb/1000FT: 1039 lbs

• Ampacity at 30°C: 480 Amps