Ungrounded Cable

Definition

Ungrounded cable is a two-wire nonmetallic sheathed cable containing one neutral wire and one hot wire but lacking a ground wire.

Purpose

Ungrounded cables are used in electrical systems to carry electrical current without a grounding path. They are often found in older wiring systems and can pose safety risks due to the lack of grounding.

Examples of Use

• Older Homes: Electrical wiring in homes built before modern grounding requirements.
• Lighting Circuits: Some older lighting systems might still use ungrounded cables.
• Temporary Installations: Short-term setups where grounding is not feasible or required.

Related Terms

• Grounded Cable: Electrical cable that includes a ground wire for safety.
• Electrical Code: Regulations governing electrical wiring and installations.
• Circuit Breaker: A device that interrupts the flow of electricity in an electrical circuit as a safety measure.

Notes

Ungrounded cables can be hazardous, and modern electrical codes typically require grounded wiring for new installations. Upgrading ungrounded systems to include grounding can significantly improve electrical safety.