Burial cable is a type of cable designed to be installed directly in the earth without requiring an underground conduit.
Burial cable is engineered to withstand direct exposure to soil, moisture, and underground conditions. Unlike standard cables that require conduit for protection, burial cables feature specialized jackets and insulation designed to resist corrosion, abrasion, and long-term environmental stress. Protective layers often include moisture-resistant compounds, polyethylene jackets, or water-blocking materials to safeguard conductors against underground degradation. Direct burial cables are used in commercial and industrial settings where underground installation improves safety, aesthetics, or space efficiency. By eliminating the need for conduit, they streamline projects while still meeting code and performance requirements. Burial cables are tested for crush resistance, water ingress, and insulation stability, making them suitable for both power and signal transmission.
Burial cables are regulated under the NEC (National Electrical Code) and tested to standards from UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) to ensure safety, insulation performance, and environmental resistance.
The use of burial cables expanded in the mid-20th century as underground power and communication systems replaced overhead lines. This shift reduced visual clutter, increased safety, and improved reliability, leading manufacturers to develop specialized direct burial designs capable of withstanding underground conditions without conduit.