Industrial Armored Cable Guide

An overview of AIA/GIA, CCW and Teck 90 cables, including benefits and applications.

Armored cable systems provide built‑in mechanical and environmental protection for a wide range of electrical circuits and are commonly specified where durability, reliability and installation efficiency are critical. In North America, these systems include galvanized interlocked armor (GIA), aluminum interlocked armor (AIA), TECK90 and continuously corrugated welded (CCW) aluminum sheath constructions.

Used across instrumentation, control, communication and power distribution applications in commercial, industrial and utility environments, armored cables deliver distinct performance characteristics while simplifying installation. Their all‑in‑one designs offer a durable alternative to traditional, labor‑intensive cable‑in‑conduit methods when additional mechanical protection is required.

Codes, Standards and Voltage Classifications

Metal‑clad (MC) armored cables are covered under UL 1569 and are available in multiple construction and voltage classes, including:

• 600 V
• 2,000 V
• 2.4 kV to 35 kV medium‑voltage (MV)

These options allow engineers and specifiers to select armored cable systems that align with both electrical requirements and environmental conditions.

Jacket Color Identification

By convention, MV armored cables are manufactured with color‑coded jackets to support easy identification in the field:

• 600 volt cables use black jackets
• 5 kV cables use yellow jackets
• 15 kV cables use red jackets

Types of Armored Cable

Aluminum Interlocked Armor (AIA) and Galvanized Steel Interlocked Armor (GIA)

AIA and GIA constructions consist of a metallic strip spiraled around the cable core, with each turn interlocked with the preceding one. Control and power cables using these constructions typically include a flame‑retardant, sunlight‑resistant, and moisture‑resistant outer jacket made of PVC, CPE or LSZH materials to support long‑term performance.

These cables can be installed indoors or outdoors and in wet or dry locations. Applications include instrumentation, control, communication and power distribution systems ranging from 300 V to 35 kV.

Compared to CCW constructions, AIA products offer greater flexibility but provide less protection in highly moist or corrosive environments. AIA and GIA cables meet the requirements of UL 1569 and are suitable for installation in Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations. However, they do not meet the more stringent requirements of UL 2225 and are therefore not suitable for Class I, Division 1 hazardous locations.

AIA vs. GIA

While both armored cable types offer protection against environmental conditions, there are differences based on material type.

The aluminum construction of AIA cables makes them more flexible, lighter in weight and generally more economical

GIA cables are constructed of galvanized steel, which is heavier and more rugged than aluminum. Therefore, GIA cables offer a higher level of mechanical protection than AIA cables.

Continuously Corrugated Welded (CCW) and Metal-Clad Hazardous Locations (MC‑HL)

CCW MC‑HL is a gas‑tight, metal‑clad cable listed for NEC Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations, providing a conduit‑free solution with enhanced safety against flammable vapor ignition.

CCW armor is formed by shaping an aluminum strip into a continuous tube and welding it along the seam. The smooth tube is then rolled or crimped to create ridges that help resist kinking during bending. This construction creates an impervious seal against moisture, gases and many chemicals.

CCW armored cables offer excellent resistance to crush, heat, moisture and chemicals, making them well suited for harsh industrial environments.

MC‑HL is not explosion‑proof, but it is designed to withstand and contain internal failures that could otherwise ignite flammable atmospheres. It is commonly used in US industrial plants where flammable gases or vapors may be present.

TECK90 Constructions

In Canada, TECK90 armored power and control cable is specifically designed for harsh industrial environments. It’s one of the most common power and control cables used in Canada for industrial installations.

TECK90 constructions are not NEC-recognized by name but in the U.S it’s often accepted as Type MC (when dual listed) or via Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) approval.

Despite this limitation, TECK90 is widely recognized in both the U.S. and Canada as a cost‑effective alternative to cable‑in‑conduit installations. It is used extensively in the pulp and paper industry and is designed to withstand the demands of mining, chemical, petroleum and other harsh environments.

TECK90 cables can be installed as exposed or concealed wiring in dry, damp or wet locations. Typical constructions include an inner PVC jacket, aluminum interlocked armor, and an overall PVC jacket.

Expert Guidance for Armored Cable Selection

Selecting the right armored cable is critical to ensuring performance, safety and long‑term reliability for your application. Wesco’s technical sales team brings deep product knowledge and real‑world experience to help you evaluate requirements, compare constructions, and confidently choose the best cable solution for your environment. From specification support to installation considerations, our experts are ready to help you make informed decisions and keep your projects moving forward.