Direct burial rated cable offers a rugged, long-lasting solution for distributing electrical power underground. It is designed to be buried directly in the ground without conduit—saving time, labor, and materials without compromising reliability. It can endure harsh environments and keep working for years through pressure, moisture, and chemical exposure.
WHAT MAKES A CABLE DIRECT BURIAL RATED?
A direct burial rating isn’t based on a single type of material or cable feature. In general, the rating is based on the entire construction of the cable and its ability to withstand physical and chemical hazards. A direct burial rated cable must demonstrate key performance characteristics, including crush resistance, moisture resistance, corrosion resistance, temperature tolerance, and resistance to chemicals, fungi, and insects.
Crush resistance means the cable can endure the weight and pressure of soil, rocks, or traffic without its insulation or conductors being damaged. Moisture resistance ensures the cable remains fully functional even when exposed to groundwater or rain, preventing shorts or corrosion. Corrosion resistance is essential to prevent breakdown over time due to prolonged contact with damp or acidic soils. Temperature tolerance allows the cable to operate safely in both high-heat and freezing conditions without degrading its insulation or performance. Finally, resistance to chemicals, fungi, and insects protects the cable from soil-borne threats like fertilizers, microbes, or burrowing insects that could compromise the insulation or outer jacket.