18-25 Shielded VNTC Tray Cable, TFFN/PVC

This 18 AWG, 25-conductor shielded VNTC (Vinyl Nylon Tray Cable) is a high-density, dual-rated Type TC-ER industrial cable. It is engineered for large-scale control systems and instrumentation signaling where significant electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection is required. The TC-ER (Exposed Run) rating provides maximum installation flexibility, allowing the cable to transition from a tray to equipment without the need for conduit.

Key Features of 18-25 Shielded VNTC (TC-ER)

• Exposed Run (TC-ER) Rated: This cable has passed the rigorous UL 1277 crush and impact tests. Per NEC 336.10, it can extend from the cable tray to the equipment for up to 6 feet without continuous support or conduit, drastically lowering labor and material costs.

• 100% EMI/RFI Shielding: The overall aluminum foil-polyester tape shield and tinned copper drain wire ensure signal integrity by blocking electrical noise from surrounding power leads and high-frequency machinery across all 25 conductors.

• Flexible TFFN Conductors: Utilizing TFFN (Thermoplastic Flexible Fixture Nylon) stranded conductors makes this high-conductor-count cable significantly easier to manipulate, strip, and terminate in tight control panels compared to standard THHN.

• Industrial Durability: Featuring a flame-retardant, sunlight-resistant PVC jacket, this cable is resistant to moisture, heat, and oils. It is approved for direct burial and use in Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations.

Common Applications

• Centralized Process Control: Connecting main PLC cabinets to massive arrays of field sensors, solenoids, and actuators in a single shielded run.

• Power Plant & Utility Signaling: Managing comprehensive telemetry, status signaling, and control logic in high-interference environments.

• Refinery & Chemical Processing: Durable enough for the chemical and moisture-heavy environments found in treatment plant raceways and trays.

• Automated Assembly Lines: Bundling multiple control signals into one organized run for large robotic cells and complex manufacturing equipment.

Conductor Identification: E2 Color Code

The conductors are identified using the industry-standard E2 color sequence (Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Yellow, Brown, then repeated with various stripes).

Technical Specifications

• Conductor Size: 18 AWG

• Number of Conductors: 25

• Conductor Material: Bare Annealed Copper (Stranded)

• Insulation: TFFN (PVC with Nylon Skin)

• Shielding: Overall Aluminum Foil-Polyester Tape (100% coverage)

• Drain Wire: Tinned Copper

• Jacket: Flame-Retardant, Sunlight-Resistant PVC (Black)

• Ratings: 600V | 90C Dry | Type TC-ER

• Compliance: UL 1277, UL 66, IEEE 1202, RoHS Compliant

Technical Note: To ensure the shield functions as intended, the tinned copper drain wire should be properly terminated to a ground bus at the source end only. This prevents ground loops while allowing the shield to effectively drain induced interference. Because this cable has 25 conductors, ensure that your tray system or conduit fill calculations account for its specific weight and outside diameter.

CABLE TYPE: 18/25 Shielded VNTC (TFFN/PVC)

RATING: Type TC-ER

COLOR CODE: E2 Standard

DISCLAIMER: The technical information and color codes provided are for general reference only. Specifications may vary by manufacturer and are subject to change without notice. Always consult with a licensed electrical engineer or local building authorities to ensure compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and all local safety regulations before installation.