M16878/5 - Type EE

How Is M16878/5 Wire Manufactured?

M16878/5 cable has a single conductor with insulation but no jacket.

Conductor

The conductor is solid or stranded silver-plated copper wire. There are multiple stranding options including seven, 19, and 133 strands, allowing users to choose between stiff, moderately flexible, and extremely malleable solutions. Silver plating reduces weathering and temperature degradation while improving conductivity and high-frequency performance.

Insulation

The wire has extruded PTFE insulation with a wall thickness of 0.015 inches. Extruded PTFE is smooth with a low coefficient of friction to allow users to feed the wire through small openings and tight raceways. PTFE insulation is chemically inert, self-extinguishing, and has excellent abrasion and cut-resistance.

Applications for M16878/5 Wire

HP3-Type EE wire is ideal for internal wiring applications for electronics and electrical equipment used in harsh environments. These include extreme cold and heat together with exposure to fuel, oil, chemicals, and cleaning solvents. Military uses include aerospace and ground-based equipment. Other applications include engine compartments, cold rooms, and high-frequency electronics.

How to Interpret the NEMA Classification

The NEMA HP3 standard applies to PTFE insulated hook-up wires manufactured to military specifications M16878/4, /5, and /6. HP3 indicates PTFE insulation, while the next group of letters indicates the voltage. In this case, Type EE means the wire is suitable for 1,000-volt applications.

M16878/5 Wire Specifications

Difference Between NEMA HP3-Type EE and UL 1180 Style

Many wires in this category have a dual UL 1180 rating. This specification is for single conductor wires with extruded insulation falling under the umbrella of the Appliance Wiring Material Standard (AWM) UL 758. The main difference between the two standards is the UL 1180 specification limits the maximum voltage to 300 volts. This apparent contradiction means that while the wire design allows for a maximum voltage of 1,000 volts when you use the wire in terms of UL 1180, you're limited to a maximum of 300 volts AC. UL 1180 permits a peak voltage of 600 volts in electronic applications.