NM-CABLE SOLUTION

Very often we encounter customers, both current and potential, who ask us whether or not our system can effectively be used when Non-Metallic sheathed cable (sold under brands such as “Romex” by Southwire, “Cirtex” by Cerro, etc.) is the preferred wiring method. The answer is a resounding “yes.” NM-Cable is just another wiring method that may be used in our Top Branch Wiring Solution.

Electrical Prefab Systems can, and has, engineered and fabricated products and systems for virtually every project type. The preferred wiring method doesn’t matter, be it MC-Cable, NM-Cable or EMT – we have completed scores of each project type.

The only difference between a prefabricated solution that utilizes MC-Cable, and one that uses NM-Cable, is the cable itself. Our system of engineering, fabrication, labeling and packaging remains unchanged regardless of the wiring method. Obviously, there must be a means to supply current from one device to another. How this is accomplished is solely dependent on project specifications, the Code and local requirements. Once this fact is established, our project engineers will use the prescribed method.

Another question that comes up is, “We use cheap plastic boxes that cost 25 cents- how can you be cost effective using a metal box?” This question has two answers:

1. We use our patented open-back box which allows us to pre-install the wiring device, and allows you to make connections without removing the device and/or plaster ring from the front of the box. These boxes are steel and the price would be about the same as if they were manufactured from plastic.

2. We contend that the cost of the box is irrelevant to the equation. A typical 800 square foot apartment project consists of about 40 to 45 openings. When the cost difference between plastic boxes and metal boxes is $1 each, obviously there is a material cost difference of $40 to $45. This additional raw material cost is more than overshadowed by the labor savings yielded by using our system – at least 10+ hours per unit!

Estimated labor savings do not include wasteful material handling time inherent with traditional wiring methods – NM-Cable, boxes, fittings, wirenuts and devices must all be moved up to a given floor and then distributed to every unit. Whether the wiring method is MC-Cable or NM-Cable, material handling time is an inescapable reality on every job site if traditional means and methods are used.

Electrical Prefab Systems has completed scores of NM-Cable projects throughout the United States. These projects include residential buildings from 1 story to 36 stories, assisted living facilities, dormitories and barracks.

Let us show you how to save labor, minimize material handling costs, reduce overhead and earn more profit on every project whether the prescribed wiring method is MC-Cable, NM-Cable or EMT.