Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

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Learn more about Phelps Dodge and its products through the most common questions from our clients and customers. If you still, can’t find the answer you’re looking for, just Contact Us!

Where do you usually use THHN Solid wire? How about the THHN Stranded wire?

THHN/THWN-2 is a type of building wire. This means it is used inside the building or house. THHN/THWN-2 is made of flame retardant PVC that self-extinguishes flame. Solid conductor is used for simple circuits. Stranded conductor is used for circuits that has complex runs. Stranded wires are more flexible than solid wires.

How would you know the proper size of wire to use on different applications?

This is usually computed by a designer, however there is a typical rule-of-thumb that is used: 2.0mm2 : small lighting, lighting switches 3.5mm2 : multiple lighting (around 20 lights per line), convenience outlet (CO) (6-10 COs depending on the design and expected load) Usual CO rating is 180Watts/CO. Though 3.5mm2 is rated more than the additional rating as mentioned, Voltage Drop should also be considered. More lighting or CO’s means longer wire length that also means bigger voltage drop. 5.5mm2 : motor loads and air-conditioner 1HP motor = 8 amperes 1.5HP motor = 10 amperes Though running amp is small, motors have very high starting current. Around 3 times of its rated amp rating 8.0mm2 and bigger : feeder lines, bigger loads like (commercial and industrial applications), malls air conditioning system (FCU, CHW Pumps), pumps, elevators, escalators

In a typical house, what size of wire should be used from service line of Meralco to the breaker and outlets?

Minimum feeder size is 5.5mm2 but actual load should be computed to know the proper sizing of wire.

How many years should it take before we rewire our houses?

There is no specific number of years that dictates rewiring schedules. However, by visually inspecting the wire, rewiring may be done if you see that the PVC color is fading or cracks appear in the insulation.

Is there a relationship to the size of wire to be used and the supply (if 110V or 220V)?

THHN/THWN-2 is rated 600V. This means it can accommodate both 110 or 220V.

Can we determine the length of wire based on its weight?

Theoretical computation can be done: 2.0mm2 = 24kg/km 3.5mm2 = 37kg/km 5.5mm2 = 58kg/km 8.0mm2 = 96kg/km 14mm2 = 147kg/km 22mm2 = 232kg/km 30mm2 = 311kg/km 38mm2 = 414kg/km

What will happen when wire overloading occurs?

Fumes will be released, then its insulation will melt. When the melted insulation touches other materials in the line, it can cause fire.

Will fire happen if the temperature rating exceeds 70ºC on wet and 90ºC on dry locations?

There is no such thing as a 70ºC wire. The usual ratings are 60ºC, 75ºC, and 90ºC. Failure that can lead to fire is a possibility when the wire is not properly used.

Where do you usually use the PDX wire?

Usually used for low cost housing because it is made of 2 TW cables with jacket No need to use wire cladding. Meralco uses it as service drop cable. With its construction, it lessens power pilferage (anti-theft cable).

Where do you usually use the royal cord?

Designed for use in portable and movable tools and equipment, portable appliances, small motors and associated machinery

What are the other types of wires aside from PERMALITE?

There is a wide variety of electrical wires – typical standard wires, and wires made for special cases. Phelps Dodge has the largest manufacturing capability in the country to produce different kinds of wire, for different needs.

What is the best type of wire for outdoor use and long distance connections?

Use Aluminum polyethylene (PE) wires, because aluminum is lighter, and PE is sunlight and weather resistant.

How do we determine if a Phelps Dodge wire is fake?

Look for the seal, weigh the box, match the color. – How to tell fake wires guide