M16878/4 - Type E

M16878/4 Construction

The single conductor wire has PTFE insulation, but no jacket or braid.

Conductor

The wire is a stranded silver-plated copper wire conductor. Silver plating improves electrical conductivity, heat resistance, and resists corrosion. The silver coating enhances the skin effect, so the silver-plated wire has better high-frequency performance. Silver improves wire solderability and protects against thermal aging.

Insulation

The wire has extruded PTFE insulation. The insulation wall thickness is only 0.01 to 0.015 inches and the wire is suitable for 600-volt applications. The thin insulation reduces the overall diameter and this, together with the smooth low-friction PTFE surface, makes internal equipment wiring simpler.

MIL-W-16878/4 Applications

Several standards apply, including UL 1213, NEMA HP3 Type E, and MIL-Spec MIL W 16878/4. You can use the wire for internal hook-up or lead wire in civilian and military specification equipment. Applications include internal wiring of high-temperature electronics, medical equipment, and appliances for use in harsh environments.

Explanation of Ratings

NEMA HP3 Type E Rating

The NEMA HP3 Type E standard covers PTFE insulated lead and hook-up wire according to military specification M16878/4. The letters HP show the wire has PTFE insulation. NEMA Type E indicates the wire's suitability for use in high-temperature applications up to 200°C and a maximum voltage of 600 volts RMS. When immersed in gasoline and oil (liquid or vapor), the maximum allowed temperature is 80°C.

UL 1213 Rating

UL 1213 certification ratings are conservative when compared to the MIL-Spec M16878/4 rating. The wire's maximum allowed working temperature under UL 1213 is 105°C and this drops to 60°C if the wire is immersed in, or in contact with, oils. UL 1213 does not specify a maximum voltage.

Applying the Right Standard

You may use MIL-Spec wire in many applications. It's important to apply the appropriate standard when wiring equipment and users should take note of the requirements for the National Fire Protection Association Standard for Industrial Machinery (NFPA 79).

M16878/4 Hook-Up Wire Specifications