What is Aluminum URD Direct Burial Cable?

A Powerful Option for Underground Secondary Distribution

When planning any outdoor electrical installation—from connecting a service transformer to a home meter, to running power to a new well pump, or to installing a secondary feeder for a mobile home—you face a critical choice: Copper or Aluminum? Conduit or Direct Burial?

For reliable, permanent underground power at 600V, the cost-effective and compliant answer is almost always Aluminum Direct Burial Cable (often referred to as URD or USE-2).

This cable is engineered to eliminate the labor and material costs of conduit while still delivering power safely for decades. Here is everything you need to know about why this cable is the industry's choice for going underground.

1. The Cost Equation: Aluminum vs. Copper

The primary reason to choose aluminum for direct burial applications is value. While copper is a superior conductor, aluminum offers overwhelming cost and labor benefits:

• Cost Advantage: Aluminum is significantly less expensive than copper. For long underground runs, switching to aluminum provides substantial savings on material costs without sacrificing performance.

• Weight & Labor: Aluminum is much lighter than copper. This makes pulling large gauge cables through trenches and positioning them far easier for contractors and DIY-ers, saving significant labor time on the job site.

• Conductivity Check: While aluminum requires a slightly larger gauge to match the conductivity of copper, modern metallurgy and termination methods (like anti-oxidant grease) ensure a safe and effective connection at the 600V level required for these applications.

2. The Direct Burial Advantage: Skipping the Conduit

Standard wire must be protected inside rigid or flexible conduit, which requires trenching and fitting work. Direct Burial Cable eliminates this headache.

• Definition: Direct Burial means the cable's jacket is specifically rated and constructed to withstand constant contact with soil, moisture, and potential chemicals without degrading.

• Superior Jacket: This wire features rugged, abrasion-resistant XLPE insulation to prevent damage during installation and throughout its lifetime. It is specially rated for moisture resistance and sunlight resistance (UV) where it surfaces from the ground.

• Labor Savings: Trenching is labor-intensive enough. Avoiding the additional cost and time of laying full lengths of conduit provides immediate and measurable savings for every project.

3. Safety & Compliance: 600V and Beyond

The 600V rating is standard for service drops and secondary distribution, making code compliance critical for safety and inspection.

• Code Compliance: Look for clear markings like USE-2 (Underground Service Entrance) or URD (Underground Residential Distribution). These certifications ensure the cable meets the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements for underground applications.

• Installation Note: Proper installation—including adhering to required burial depths and using correct terminal connectors—is non-negotiable for safe, long-term operation.

4. Primary Applications: Where Aluminum URD Cable is Essential

If your project involves running power outdoors or below the surface, this is your cable:

• Residential Secondary Feeds: Connecting the service transformer to a home's meter.

• Detached Structures: Running power to garages, sheds, workshops, or barns.

• Mobile Home Feeder: Supplying power from a pedestal to the mobile home unit.

• Outdoor Equipment: Feeder runs for well pumps, farm equipment, or lighting systems.

5. Why Buy Aluminum URD Direct Burial Cable?

Aluminum URD Direct Burial Cable is a testament to smart engineering. It’s a vital component that allows us to enjoy reliable power while preserving the aesthetics and safety of our surroundings. So, next time your lights flicker (hopefully never!), remember the robust network of URD cable diligently working away, just beneath your feet.

Wire America is proud to offer this product by the foot or by the spool with fast shipping to your location.

Click Here to Shop Our Aluminum URD Direct Burial Cable Selection

At Wire America, we believe in genuine conversation. You'll always talk with real people who understand that every project requires careful product selection. We're here to ensure you feel educated, confident, and great about your final purchase. Feel free to give us a call to discuss your project! You can reach us at: 833-268-8644

⚠️ Important Disclaimer: Safety and Compliance

Wire America provides this information as a guide only. Electrical installations must strictly adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC) and all state, local, and jurisdictional requirements, which vary widely. Always consult a licensed electrician, electrical engineer, or the local inspecting authority before purchasing material or starting any electrical project. Wire America assumes no liability for the installation, use, or interpretation of these guides.