Prevent mislabeling armored Type MC as Type AC or vice versa.
Checkable specification fields
These are examples from the named references, not assertions about a reel you have not shown us. Match the actual jacket, tag and part number before using a product claim.
| Field | Documented example / boundary | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional AC example | Atkore describes 2–4 copper insulated conductors, paper wraps and a bonding wire in contact with interlocked armor. | [1] |
| Traditional MC example | Atkore contrasts an overall assembly tape and internal bare/green grounding conductor; traditional interlocked MC armor alone is not its grounding means. | [1] |
| MC construction range | Southwire describes interlocked tape, smooth tube and corrugated tube sheath options; not every MC configuration is identical. | [2] |
| Where to read markings | Southwire says Type, conductor AWG, voltage and temperature can be printed on jacket or marker tape under armor. | [2] |
Look inside the assembly
For the referenced traditional AC construction, the bond wire touches the armor and individual conductors have paper wrap. In the referenced traditional MC construction, an overall tape surrounds the conductors and a separate grounding conductor is present. Specialized MC configurations may differ: use actual markings and the exact manufacturer sheet to resolve them.
- Obtain a safely disconnected end-view showing armor, conductor count, ground and any bond wire.
- Photograph jacket or marker-tape print, rather than treating a seller title as proof.
- Record metal, AWG, insulation, sheath form and jacket presence independently.
Keep certification and condition separate
A referenced UL construction standard is not a certificate for a used remnant. The offered lot still needs its own label, length basis, abrasion/dent photos and any original paperwork. If identification evidence conflicts, label it unidentified armored cable until clarified.
- Do not infer wet-location, fire, voltage or ampacity rating from armor appearance.
- Do not represent this page as installation or energized-cable advice.
Source notes and scope
The linked references support the specific examples above. Product designs and standards can change; seller-supplied markings, measured length and current condition require separate verification. Nothing here states that this buyer stocks, tests, guarantees or accepts a particular cable, or offers installation advice.