What's the difference between Armored Cable and Metal-Clad Cable?
2025-11-19 10:17Company Introduction:
Xiamen Evershine Electronic Technology Co., Ltd., founded in 2015, is a professional enterprise engaged in the R&D, production, and sales of wire and cable, as well as wire harness products. Our products are widely used in communications, home appliances, power automation, aerospace vehicles, ships, automobiles, and more. The factory has passed ISO9001 quality management system certification, and our products hold multiple international certifications. “Quality is our culture” — we survive by quality and develop by integrity, providing the highest quality, most competitive prices, and the most thoughtful service.
Understanding the Difference Between Armored Cable (AC) and Metal-Clad Cable (MC)
In the electrical industry, both Armored Cable (AC) and Metal-Clad Cable (MC) play crucial roles in ensuring safety and performance in modern wiring systems. At first glance, they appear similar — both are wrapped in metal and designed for protection — but their construction, performance, and applications reveal distinct differences that electrical professionals must understand.
As a leading cable assembly manufacturer, Xiamen Evershine Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. continues to innovate in custom cable assembly, Metal-Clad Cable, and Armored Cable solutions, helping clients across various industries achieve safe, efficient, and reliable electrical installations.
1. Structural Differences: The Core of Performance
Armored Cable (AC) is typically made with aluminum interlocked armor and includes a bare or bonding wire in contact with the armor, allowing the armor itself to serve as the ground path. This makes AC cables ideal for environments where grounding continuity is essential and where vibration is minimal.
Metal-Clad Cable (MC), on the other hand, also features metal armor—usually aluminum or steel—but includes a separate insulated grounding conductor. This design offers greater flexibility in installation and enhances safety in high-vibration or industrial environments.
| Comparison Item | Armored Cable (AC) | Metal-Clad Cable (MC) |
|---|---|---|
| Grounding Method | Uses bonding wire with metal sheath | Has a separate insulated ground conductor |
| Flexibility | Limited, suitable for fixed installation | High, suitable for industrial and vibration environments |
| Protection | Moderate mechanical protection | Enhanced mechanical protection |
| Typical Application | Commercial buildings, residential wiring | Factories, power plants, heavy industry |
| Price Range | Generally lower | Slightly higher |
Both AC and MC are essential in cable assembly systems, but choosing the right one depends on the operational environment, safety requirements, and installation complexity.
2. Application Scenarios: Selecting the Right Cable for the Job
In large-scale industrial facilities, MC cables are preferred due to their ability to handle mechanical stress and provide superior grounding protection. For example, in power automation systems or aerospace equipment, a custom cable assembly using Metal-Clad Cable can ensure stable current transmission and excellent EMI shielding.
Conversely, Armored Cable (AC) is more commonly used in residential or light commercial wiring. Its lighter weight and cost efficiency make it an ideal choice for fixed installations where the environment is relatively stable.
As Evershine engineers often emphasize:
“There’s no one-size-fits-all cable — the right solution depends on the balance between safety, flexibility, and cost.”
3. Industry Analysis: Demand Growth and Future Trends
According to industry data, global demand for Armored Cable and Metal-Clad Cable continues to rise, driven by the expansion of infrastructure, renewable energy systems, and smart manufacturing. The table below shows the projected market growth from 2025 to 2030.
| Year | AC Market Size (Billion USD) | MC Market Size (Billion USD) | Annual Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 7.8 | 9.2 | 5.2% |
| 2026 | 8.1 | 9.8 | 6.1% |
| 2027 | 8.6 | 10.5 | 6.5% |
| 2028 | 9.2 | 11.3 | 6.8% |
| 2029 | 9.8 | 12.0 | 7.1% |
| 2030 | 10.3 | 13.2 | 7.5% |
This rapid growth trend is encouraging manufacturers like Xiamen Evershine Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. to invest in advanced cable assembly technologies and custom wire harness solutions to meet evolving industry needs.
4. FAQs: Common Questions About AC and MC Cables
Q1: Are Armored Cable (AC) and Metal-Clad Cable (MC) interchangeable?
A: Not entirely. While both can provide metal protection, MC has an insulated ground wire that makes it safer for high-vibration or outdoor applications.
Q2: Can AC and MC cables be used outdoors?
A: MC can be used outdoors if rated for wet locations. AC is usually limited to dry, indoor environments.
Q3: Which is more cost-effective: AC or MC?
A: AC is generally cheaper, but MC offers greater durability and flexibility, which can reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Q4: Do both support custom configurations?
A: Yes. Evershine provides custom cable assembly and custom wire harness services for both AC and MC cables to meet project-specific requirements.
5. Call to Action: Partner with Evershine for Your Next Project
With 10 years of experience in cable harness assembly and custom cable assembly, Xiamen Evershine Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. provides professional guidance, design optimization, and high-quality manufacturing to help clients streamline installations, reduce costs, and enhance electrical performance.
Whether you are developing power automation systems, communication infrastructure, or smart home solutions, Evershine’s Metal-Clad Cable, Armored Cable, and complete cable assembly solutions will deliver reliability and efficiency at every connection point.
6. Conclusion: Understanding Differences, Building Safer Systems
In conclusion, while Armored Cable (AC) and Metal-Clad Cable (MC) share similar outer structures, their internal design and application scenarios vary significantly. Knowing their differences helps engineers and project managers choose the optimal solution for safety, cost, and performance.
As Xiamen Evershine Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.continues to advance in custom cable assembly and cable harness assembly, it remains committed to quality, integrity, and innovation — lighting up the future of global connectivity, one cable at a time.