XLP/USE-2/RHH/RHW-2 WIRE

XLP/USE-2/RHH/RHW-2 wire is a versatile, 600-volt rated electrical wire with a tough cross-linked polyethylene (XLP) insulation, designed for various applications, including direct burial, service entrances, feeders, and branch circuits. Its multiple ratings (XLP, USE-2, RHH, RHW-2) allow it to be used in a wide range of permanent installations in wet, dry, and damp locations, such as underground, in conduit, aerial, or in raceways. Available in both copper and aluminum conductors. 

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Triple-rated XLP wire is a heavy-duty thermoset conductor rated for 600V (wet or dry up to 90°C). It is commonly used for underground service entrances, main feeders, solar arrays, and direct burial runs. Because it holds RHH/RHW-2 ratings, it can transition seamlessly from an underground dirt trench into indoor conduit without requiring a splice.

This wire carries three distinct UL ratings on a single conductor:

  • USE-2 (Underground Service Entrance): Approved for direct burial in the earth without conduit.
  • RHW-2: Rated for wet or dry locations up to 90°C continuous operation.
  • RHH: Approved for dry indoor raceways and conduits up to 90°C.

XLP (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) is a thermoset insulation that will not melt or deform under thermal overloads. Compared to PVC, XLP offers superior moisture resistance, higher chemical durability, and extreme cold-weather flexibility down to -40°C.

Yes. USE-2/RHW-2 is widely used for ground-mounted solar arrays and underground DC feeder runs due to its sunlight, moisture, and direct burial resistance. (Note: For exposed rooftop arrays operating at high DC voltages, check local code for standard PV Wire requirements).

Fast! At Wire America, most standard copper and aluminum USE-2 / RHH / RHW-2 orders—including custom cut-to-length footages and full spools—are processed and shipped within 24 to 48 business hours.

Need it sooner for an urgent on-site installation? We offer expedited shipping options at checkout so you can secure guaranteed delivery dates.

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Copper and Aluminum XLP/USE-2/RHH/RHW-2 Wire

XLP-insulated wire with a triple rating of USE-2, RHH, and RHW-2 is a high-performance conductor engineered for the most demanding electrical environments. The "USE-2" designation identifies it as an Underground Service Entrance cable specifically rated for direct burial, while the "RHH/RHW-2" ratings certify it for use as a high-heat and moisture-resistant building wire in both wet and dry locations at 90°C. Featuring a rugged Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE/XLP) insulation, this wire provides superior mechanical protection and chemical resistance without the need for an additional jacket. Available in both high-conductivity copper and cost-effective 8000-series aluminum, it is the premier solution for seamless power distribution from underground utility sources directly into commercial or industrial structures.

Key Features
  • Triple-Rated Versatility: Certified as USE-2, RHH, and RHW-2, allowing a single conductor to be used for direct burial, in-conduit, and indoor aerial applications.
  • Rugged XLPE Insulation: The cross-linked polyethylene jacket offers exceptional resistance to abrasion, crushing, moisture, and environmental stress cracking.
  • Direct Burial Rated: Specifically engineered for installation directly in the earth (USE-2) without the requirement for protective conduit.
  • 90°C Wet/Dry Rating: Maintains full ampacity and electrical integrity in temperatures up to 90°C in both saturated and arid environments.
  • Chemical & Oil Resistance: Highly durable against soil acids, gasoline, and industrial chemicals, ensuring a long service life in harsh locations.
  • Material Options: Offered in stranded soft-drawn copper for maximum flexibility or 8000-series aluminum for lightweight, large-scale feeders.
  • Industry Compliance: Manufactured to meet UL 44 (RHH/RHW-2) and UL 854 (USE-2) standards, fully compliant with NEC requirements.
Common Applications
  • Underground Service Entrances: The primary choice for routing power from a utility transformer directly to a building's main service panel.
  • Direct Burial Feeders: Used for running power to remote structures, pumps, and outdoor equipment without the cost of conduit.
  • Industrial Facility Wiring: Ideal for high-heat manufacturing environments where heavy-duty mechanical protection is required.
  • Solar Array Wiring: Frequently utilized in large-scale photovoltaic systems for both DC and AC power runs due to its UV and moisture resistance.
  • Wastewater Treatment Plants: Deployed in environments with constant moisture and chemical exposure for reliable motor and control power.
  • Battery Storage Systems: Used as a heavy-duty feeder for connecting large-scale battery banks to power inverters.