What is MTW/TEW Wire?

MTW (Machine Tool Wire) and TEW (Thermoplastic Equipment Wire) are premium hook-up wires designed to meet the rigorous standards of the National Electric Code. Engineered for performance, these wires are your go-to solution for wiring in switchboards, appliances, electronic circuits, control cabinets, and machine tools. With TEW featuring a bare copper conductor and MTW boasting a tinned copper conductor, both wires offer exceptional durability and conductivity. Plus, many TEW wires are double-listed as MTW, ensuring seamless compatibility across a wide range of demanding applications. Choose MTW/TEW wire for reliable, code-compliant wiring that powers your projects with confidence.

How are MTW and TEW Wire Constructed?

The key distinction between MTW and TEW wire lies in their conductors. MTW wire features a tinned copper conductor, offering superior corrosion resistance, making it an excellent choice for environments where dry conditions prevail. On the other hand, TEW wire typically utilizes a bare copper conductor. Both wires are insulated with robust Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), providing exceptional resistance to heat, moisture, and oil, ensuring long-lasting performance even in demanding conditions. Designed for versatility, both MTW and TEW wires are rated for 600V and can withstand temperatures up to 105°C, making them reliable solutions for a wide range of electrical applications.

What are the Applications of MTW Wire?

MTW (Machine Tool Wire) is specifically designed for use in industrial environments where reliability and durability are paramount. Commonly found in the wiring of machine tools, MTW wire is ideal for use in control cabinets, switchboards, and other machinery. Its tinned copper conductor offers enhanced corrosion resistance, making it suitable for dry locations where long-term performance is crucial. MTW wire is also frequently used in the automotive and appliance industries, where it provides dependable service in demanding conditions.

What are the Applications of TEW Wire?

TEW (Thermoplastic Equipment Wire) is a versatile solution for a wide range of applications. With its bare copper conductor, TEW wire is commonly used in the internal wiring of electrical equipment, appliances, and control panels. It excels in environments where flexibility and resistance to heat, moisture, and oil are required. TEW wire is also widely used in switchboards and electronic circuits, offering dependable performance across various industrial and commercial applications. Additionally, its dual listing as MTW wire allows for use in similar settings, providing an adaptable option for many electrical wiring needs.

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MTW/TEW Wire UL Ratings

Both MTW and TEW wire are often dual-rated wires. This means that a wire may meet more than one industry standard. Common standards for MTW and TEW wire include UL AWM Styles UL 1028, UL 1283, UL 1284, and UL 1015. There are many specifications for each rating, including AWG size, insulation thickness, and voltage rating.

Since many of these standards are similar, there is a lot of overlap. However, checking product specifications is always important since differences can be minuscule. For example, a wire that is 8 AWG could possibly be AWM approved for UL 1028, UL 1283, and UL 1284 ratings. However, a wire that is 2 AWG could only have UL 1283 or UL 1284 ratings. Similarly, a 6 AWG could meet UL 1028, UL 1283, and UL 1015 because it has an insulation thickness of 60 mils. However, a 4 AWG may not meet any except UL 1015 if it has an insulation thickness of 80 mils.

MTW and TEW wires often meet SAE 1127 Type SGT and BC5W2 ratings as well. For example, 6 AWG to 4/0 bare copper wires that meet UL 1284 also qualify as SAE 1127 Type SGT. Tinned versions of these sizes meet BC5W2 standards as well. Within the wire and cable industry, there are many common dual ratings. The chart below explains common dual ratings for MTW wire. You can learn more about dual ratings in general here.

Allied Wire and Cable offers MTW/TEW wire that meets UL Styles 1283, 1284, 1028, 1015, and 10519. You can also customize your wires with our wide selection of value-added services. Have more questions about MTW and TEW wire? Contact us today!