Riyadh 18 AWG TFFN Stranded Copper American Electrical Wire, 600V, PVC Insulated, Nylon Jacket, Green/Yellow Color

Why choose 18 AWG wire for Saudi construction projects?

18 AWG wire is defined as a stranded copper conductor with a cross-sectional area of 0.82 mm², widely used in control circuits for machinery and industrial equipment in Saudi Arabia.

Unlike solid 18 AWG wire, the stranded version you find at youmats.com offers superior flexibility. This is critical when running cables through crowded conduits in factories or around vibrating motors in Riyadh workshops. The PVC insulation withstands temperatures up to 105°C, making it suitable for the dry, high-heat environments common in KSA construction sites. While solid wire breaks easily when bent repeatedly, stranded 18 AWG maintains integrity during installation, reducing the risk of connection failures.

18 AWG wire price in Saudi Arabia

The cost of 18 AWG wire varies based on brand certification and roll length. For TFFN cable from Riyadh Cables, suppliers in Riyadh typically price per meter rather than per roll, though bulk orders for 152.4-meter coils (500 feet) offer better value. Expect the price per meter to reflect the high quality of tinned copper and the double-layer protection (PVC + Nylon). Buying directly ensures you avoid the markups often found in general hardware stores.

Is 18 AWG wire suitable for outdoor use in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, but with conditions. The TFFN 18 AWG wire features a Nylon jacket that provides excellent resistance to abrasion and UV degradation. However, for permanent outdoor exposure in direct sunlight, ensure the green/yellow insulation is not the only layer exposed. In Saudi summers, surface temperatures can exceed 70°C. While the wire is rated for 105°C insulation, prolonged direct solar heating can degrade the outer nylon jacket over time. For outdoor runs, bury the conduit or use UV-rated black conduit to protect the green/yellow insulation from direct sun.

Buying 18 AWG wire in Riyadh and Jeddah

If you need to buy 18 AWG wire in Riyadh or Jeddah for immediate installation, look for suppliers stocking Riyadh Cables products. The TFFN specification is standard for industrial control panels. Always check for the UL 83 and UL 1581 markings on the reel to verify authenticity. Local suppliers in industrial zones like Al Khobar or Dammam also stock this gauge, but ensure they provide the specific Nylon-jacketed TFFN variant, not standard THHN, as TFFN offers the necessary flexibility for complex wiring harnesses.

Technical Comparison: 18 AWG vs 20 AWG

What is the difference between 18 AWG and 20 AWG wire? The primary difference lies in the cross-sectional area and current-carrying capacity. 18 AWG has an area of 0.82 mm², whereas 20 AWG is 0.51 mm². While 18 AWG can safely carry roughly 7–10 Amps depending on the insulation type and installation method, 20 AWG is limited to about 5–7 Amps. For control circuits in Saudi factories, 18 AWG is preferred for its higher current rating and increased durability against physical stress.

Key Specifications Summary

• Conductor: Stranded Tinned Copper (16 x 0.254mm strands)
• Insulation: PVC (105°C rating)
• Jacket: Nylon (Abrasion resistant)
• Voltage: 600V
• Resistance: 18.23 Ohms/km
• Color Code: Green/Yellow (Standard for Protective Earth in many contexts)