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Wire Types and Sizes
16 questions By Tony R. Kuphaldt
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Question 4 of 16
In the Unites States of America, an organization known as the National Fire Protection Association, or NFPA, publishes an important set of standards called the National Electrical Code. What type of information is contained in this set of standards?
Reveal answerThe NEC contains standards regarding the installation of electrical power circuits (primarily), but also communications and control circuitry. It is the predominant reference for construction electrical work of all types.
Notes:NEC code books are rather large, so students may feel inclined to limit their answers to what is included in the “Answer” for this question. However, you should challenge them to look deeper into an NEC book and discover the wealth of information contained therein.
Specifically, ask them to describe some of the “Article” topics typically found in an NEC book.
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Question 5 of 16
Describe the difference between solid and stranded wire types.
Reveal answer“Solid” wire is formed from a single strand of metal. “Stranded” wire is formed from multiple strands, wound together.
Notes:A good follow-up question to this would be to ask, “What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of solid versus stranded wire?” Challenge your students to consider such issues as cost, physical flexibility, and ease of connections.
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Question 6 of 16
Suppose you pick up a piece of electrical wire and notice this label printed on the insulation:
14 AWG MTW
What does this label tell you about the wire?
Reveal answerThis label indicates the gauge of the wire (14 AWG) and the type of insulation (MTW) it has. You didn’t think I would just tell you what “MTW” meant, did you?
Notes:It is important that students know where to look for information like this, because they will surely come across unique wire types in their later experience, and will need to know how to identify the wire.
