G. Cable is a type W or power cable that includes ground wires, with the total circular mil area of the ground conductors typically ranging from one-half to three-quarters of a phase conductor.
G. Cable refers to a category of portable power cable, often associated with type W constructions, that incorporates dedicated ground wires alongside its primary current-carrying conductors. These cables are engineered for use in demanding commercial and industrial environments where reliable grounding is essential for safe and efficient electrical operation.
A defining characteristic of G. Cable is the proportional sizing of its ground conductors. The combined circular mil area of the ground wires is typically designed to be approximately one-half to three-quarters of the circular mil area of a single phase conductor. This sizing approach ensures that the grounding system is capable of carrying fault current effectively while maintaining balance within the cable construction. Circular mil area is a standard measurement used in conductor sizing, allowing engineers to evaluate the current-carrying capacity and electrical characteristics of each conductor within the cable.
In industrial power systems, grounding plays a critical role in protecting equipment and maintaining system stability. The inclusion of ground wires within G. Cable allows for a continuous and reliable path for fault current, helping to reduce the risk of electrical damage and supporting proper operation of protective devices. This is particularly important in environments where equipment is subject to heavy electrical loads, frequent movement, or exposure to harsh conditions.
Type W cables, which are commonly associated with G. Cable constructions, are known for their flexibility, durability, and resistance to environmental stressors such as moisture, abrasion, and mechanical impact. These attributes make G. Cable suitable for portable power applications where cables must perform consistently under challenging operating conditions.
The specific ratio of ground conductor size relative to phase conductors reflects a balance between safety and efficiency. By providing sufficient grounding capacity without oversizing, G. Cable supports effective fault current handling while maintaining manageable cable dimensions and flexibility. This design consideration is critical in large-scale industrial systems where cable performance, handling, and reliability must all be carefully managed.
Type W G Cable
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)
Underwriters Laboratories (UL)