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Technical - Vocational - Education

Industrial Arts

ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
& MAINTENANCE
Flexible Armored Cable Wiring
TLE/EIM – Grade 10
Quarter 1 – Module 4: Flexible armored cable wiring
First Edition, 2020

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over them.

Published by the Department of Education

Development Team of the Module

Developer: Ruth Eliezer Alcazar
Editors:
Reviewers:
Illustrator:
Layout Artist:
Template Developer:
Management Team:
Mario S. Gregorio, Ed- TNTS Principal IV
Felipe D. Epe – JHS – Assistant Principal
Rey D. Jamison – Tech.Voc. Dept. Head

Printed in the Philippines by Tagum National Trade School

Department of Education – Region XI

Office Address: Apokon Road Tagum City

Land line:
(64) 218-0711
(64) 216-2763

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Technical - Vocational - Education
10
Industrial Arts

ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
& MAINTENANCE
Flexible Armored Cable Wiring
Introductory Message
For the facilitator:
Welcome to the EIM-10 Self-Engaging Module (SEM) Flexible
armored cable wiring
This module was collaboratively designed, developed and
reviewed by educators both from public and private institutions to
assist you, the teacher or facilitator in helping the learners meet
the standards set by the K to 12 Curriculum while overcoming their
personal, social, and economic constraints in schooling.
This learning resource hopes to engage the learners into guided
and independent learning activities at their own pace and time.
Furthermore, this also aims to help learners acquire the needed
21st century skills while taking into consideration their needs and
circumstances.
In addition to the material in the main text, you will also see this
box in the body of the module:

Notes to the Teacher

This contains helpful tips or strategies
that will help you in guiding the
learners.

As a facilitator, you are expected to orient the learners on how to

use this module. You also need to keep track of the learners'
progress while allowing them to manage their own learning.
Furthermore, you are expected to encourage and assist the
learners as they do the tasks included in the module.

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For the learner:
Welcome to the EIM-10 Self-Engaging Module (SEM) Flexible
armored cable wiring
This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful
opportunities for guided and independent learning at your own
pace and time. You will be enabled to process the contents of
the learning resource while being an active learner.
This module has the following parts and corresponding icons:

Let us Learn! This will give you an idea of the skills

or competencies you are
expected to learn in the module.

Let us Try! This part includes an activity that

aims to check what you already
know about the lesson to take. If
you get all the answers correct
(100%), you may decide to skip this
module.

This includes a brief drill or review to

Let us Study help you link the current lesson with
the previous one; various ways of
introducing a new lesson such as a
story, a song, a poem, a problem
opener, an activity or a situation;
and a brief discussion of the lesson.
This aims to help you discover and
understand new concepts and
skills.

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 This comprises activities for guided
Let us Practice practice to solidify your
understanding and skills of the
topic. You may check the answers
to the exercises using the Answer
Key at the end of the module.

This comprises activities for

Let us Practice independent practice to solidify
More
your understanding and skills of the
topic. You may check the answers
to the exercises using the Answer
Key at the end of the module.
This includes questions or blank
Let us
Remember sentence/paragraph to be filled in
to process what you learned from
the lesson.
This is a task which aims to evaluate
Let us Assess your level of mastery in achieving
the learning competency.
In this portion, another activity will
Let us Enhance be given to you to enrich your
knowledge or skill of the lesson
learned.
This part contains the closing note
Let us Reflect related to the lesson. It will help you
reflect the importance of the
concepts you have learned in this
module and its relevance to real-
life situation.
This contains answers to all activities
Answer Key to
the Activities in the module.

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At the end of this module you will also find:

References This is a list of all sources used

in developing this module.

The following are some reminders in using this module:

1. Use the module with care. Do not put unnecessary mark/s on
any part of the module.
2. Don’t forget to answer Let Us Try! before moving on to the
other activities included in the module.
3. Read the instruction carefully before doing each task.
4. Observe honesty and integrity in doing the tasks and
checking your answers.
5. Finish the task at hand before proceeding to the next.
6. Return this module to your teacher/facilitator once you are
through with it.
If you encounter any difficulty in answering the tasks in this
module, do not hesitate to consult your teacher or facilitator.
Always bear in mind that you are not alone.
We hope that through this material, you will experience
meaningful learning and gain deep understanding of the
relevant competencies. You can do it!

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 Let Us Learn!

This module was designed and written with you in mind. It is

here to help you master how to install bulb controlled by 1 SPST.
The scope of this module permits it to be used in many different
learning situations. The language used recognizes the diverse
vocabulary level of students. The lessons are also arranged to
follow the standard sequence of the course. But the order in
which you read them can be changed to correspond with the
textbook you are now using.

This module has one lesson:

 Lesson 1- Bulb controlled by 1SPST.

After going through this module, you are expected to:

1. identify electrical materials needed to install a bulb controlled
by SPST;
2. sketch wiring diagram of a bulb controlled by 1 SPST

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Let Us Try!

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 Lesson
Flexible Armored Cable
4 Wiring

Let Us Study

Flexible Armored Cable Wiring

The armored cable is a common cable with a protective layer between the
jackets. It can withstand higher tension and is buried directly underground.
Flexible Armored cable (type Ac) is a fabricated assembly of insulated
conductors walled in flexible metal sheath. It is common known as BX. It
consists of spiraled metal sheet forming flexible steel tube through which
the rubber covered wire enclosed. The armor protects the wire from injury
and moisture.

FLEXIBLE ARMORED CABLE (BX)

There were originally two initial versions of armored cable. One was called
“AX” and the other “BX,” with the “X” standing for “experimental.” The “BX”
version became the one that eventually was produced, and hence the name
“BX” became the common name. BX became the registered trade name of
AC Cable distributed by General Electric who had acquired Sprague Electric.
So “BX” is defined as “AC” cable (armored clad) and “MC” is defined as Metal
Clad cable. These two cable assemblies are very similar in construction. (See
note on FMC below)

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The biggest difference between the two cable systems is that MC has full size
ground wire while AC uses a combination of the jacket and a thin bonding
strip or wire to function as the equipment ground. The bonding wire is
unique to AC cable and this allows the outer metal armor in conjunction
with the bonding wire to be used as an equipment ground.

Note: Early AC cable often does not have this bonding wire.

Now AC cable cannot be used in exterior or damp locations. Where MC

Cable may be used in exterior applications but must be suitable for exterior
or direct burial. This type of MC Cable will have a continuous PVC outer
jacket.
Here are two examples from home inspections of AC/MC cables being used
in exterior application that are not appropriate. As you can see they do not
have a protective PVC outer jacket that would allow the use on exterior
applications.

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BX Cable and Wire
Going under alternative names such as metallic sheathed cable, type AC,
MC, Greenfield, or armored cable, BX cable is a collection of plastic-coated
insulated wires (typically 14- or 12-gauge), bundled together and protected
by a ribbon-like metal sheathing. BX's metal sheathing runs in a helix-like
or twisted manner around the wires.
BX is contrasted with a newer cable, NM, which stands for "non-metallic."
Instead of the metal sheathing, NM has a slick vinyl covering that is easy to
rip and to pull through holes in studs. Romex is one popular brand of NM
electrical cable.
A chief distinction between BX and NM is that BX can achieve grounding
through the outer metal casing. This casing needs to be attached to metal
boxes.
Another distinction is that some types of BX cable can be installed in
exposed locations, either indoors or outdoors. NM cable and wiring must
always be installed in an enclosed location (typically within a wall, ceiling, or
under a floor). Always be sure to check with your local building and
electrical codes as to whether BX cable may be left exposed.
BX Cable Longevity and Replacement
Like any other cable, if the armor is nicked, cut, or shredded, the wires
inside can be compromised. BX's armor, while much stronger than NM's
vinyl, can still be pierced by a determined and ill-placed nail or screw.
However, with the exception of electrical wires that run through rigid metal
conduits, no other type of electrical cable has as strong an outer casing as
does BX cable.
Wires within the armor may display degradation of their rubber insulation.
But this may just be at the exposed ends. If you rip back the metal
sheathing, you may find that the insulation is still good.
If old BX wiring is in good condition and can carry today's higher power
demands, there is usually no reason to replace it. Unlike the older knob-
and-tube wires from the early 20th century, the wire sheathing will not turn
gummy and degrade over time.

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BX Cable vs. NM Electrical Cable

BX Cable NM Cable
Ripping BX is difficult to rip back NM is far easier to rip back. This
without a special tool. is accomplished with an
inexpensive cable ripper.
BX cable is more expensive NM cable tends to run about 25-
than NM cable. percent cheaper than BX cable
Cost
as it ships lighter and uses fewer
source materials.
BX is heavy and difficult to run Not only is NM cable light, but
through studs. the slippery coating makes the
Handling
cable easy to pull through holes
in studs.

BX is safer than NM since the NM cable's vinyl sheathing is

metal armor protects well easily penetrated.
Safety
against accidental penetrations.

BX cable is grounded via its Because vinyl is not conductive,

metal armor or internal green grounding is achieved by a
Grounding
plastic-coated ground wire. separate bare copper ground
wire in the bundle.
BX is cut with a hacksaw. NM cable can be cut with a
Better yet, use a special lineman's pliers or even with the
Cutting
armored cable cutting tool. cutter on a wire stripper.
BX is accepted by the National NM cable is also accepted by the
Electrical Code (NEC). Older BX NEC.
Code
cables without an internal
bonding strip are not accepted
by NEC.

Types of Flexible Armored Cable

1. Type AC – the conductors inside are insulated with rubber insulation.
2. Type ACT – the conductors inside are insulated with thermos plastic
insulation
3. Type ACL – It has a rubber and lead sheath between conductor and the
armor

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4. Type ACV – It has varnish cambric insulation. The varnish cambric is a
closely woven fabric of cotton or linen impregnated with
insulating varnish.

Usages of Flexible Armor Cable

Type AC and ACT

 Used for both exposed and concealed work in dry locations
 Can be embedded in plastic finish on brick or other masonry work
except in damp and wet location

Type ACV
 Used only for exposed and concealed work in dry locations in
buildings. Used for industrial or commercial purposes
 Shall be smaller than 5.19mm

Type ACL
 Can be used in exposed to weather or continuous moisture
 Is for underground runs embedded in masonry, concrete or buried in
building during constructions
 Where exposed to oil, gasoline or other condition having deteriorating
effect on the insulation.

Flexible Armored Cable must Not be Used in:

 Theaters
 Motion pictures studios
 Hazardous locations
 Where exposed to corrosive fumes and vapor
 Storage battery rooms
 Cranes and hoist
 Hoist ways or elevators.

Supports
Flexible armored cable must be secured by approve clamps, straps or
similar fittings so designed and mounted not to injure cable. The cable shall

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be secured at the wired surface approximately every 1-meter interval and
within 30mm away from outlet box or fittings.
Exposed works.
Expose runs of cables must follow closely the surface of the building finisher
of running board excepts:
o Lengths of not more than 60 cm where flexibility is desired;
o On the undesirable of floor joist in basements where supported at
each floor and so located as not to be subjected to mechanical injury;
o In accessible attics and roof spaces, cables shall be installed as
follows
Electrical Continuity of Metal Enclosure
The metal enclosure consists of the cable armor and any outlet boxes
or the other box fittings, or cabinets used as electrical continuity shall be
ensured by setting up tightly all connectors, clamps, and locknuts.
Grounding
The cable armor and all other parts and enclosure will be effectively
grounded if electrical continuity is ensured through the wiring system.
Cutting
In cutting Flexible armored cable the appropriate tools to be used is hack
saw
Bends
In making Bends precautions must be made in order not to injure the armor
of the cable. The diameter of any bends should not be less than 5 times the
dimeter of the cable.
General Requirements for Wiring Methods
Protection against corrosion and mechanical injury in metal raceways,
armored cable, boxes, cabinets, metallic elbows, coupling, and fittings,
unless made of corrosion resistant materials inside and outside shall be
coated with zinc, cadinium, and enamel. Except the ferrous raceways
fittings and boxes protected solely with enamel may be only indoors and
occupancies not subject to serve corrosion influences. The following are the
subject to corrosive conditions:
 Meat packing plants
 Tanneries
 Hide cellars, glue houses
 Salt Storage
 Meta refineries
 Pulp mills

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 Sugar Mills
 Casing rooms and Stables

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 Let Us Practice

Read and understand the questions carefully. Write the letter of the correct
answer. Use your activity notebook.

1. A type of flexible armored cable with a rubber insulated conductors

inside the armor.
a. Type AC b. type ACT c. Type ACL d. Type ACV
2. A type of flexible armored cable that has a varnish cambric.
a. Type AC b. type ACT c. Type ACL d. Type ACV

3. A type of flexible armored cable that is insulated with thermos plastic

insulation
a. Type AC b. type ACT c. Type ACL d. Type ACV

4. A type of flexible armored cable that has a rubber and lead sheath
between conductor and the armor
a. Type AC b. type ACT c. Type ACL d. Type ACV

5. What is the appropriate tool to cut the Flexible armored cable?

a. Electrician knife b. tube cutter c. hack saw d. none

6. Can be embedded in plastic finish on brick or other masonry work

except in damp and wet location
a. Type AC b. type ACT c. Type ACL d. both a and b

7. Used for industrial or commercial purposes

a. Type AC b. type ACT c. Type ACL d. Type ACV

8. It is for underground runs embedded in masonry, concrete or buried

in building during constructions
a. BX b. type ACT c. Type ACL d. Type ACV

9. Where exposed to oil, gasoline or other condition having deteriorating

effect on the insulation.
a. Type AC b. type ACT c. Type ACL d. Type ACV

10. A cable that is difficult to rip back without a special tool.

a. Type AC b. BX c. Type ACL d. NM

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 Let Us Practice More

Identify what is being ask. Write your answer in your activity

notebook.

1. What are the different corrosion resistant to protect the metal

raceways?

2. In what areas that metal raceways are subject for corrosion?

3. In bending FAC, what particular measurements to keep the armor

from injury?

4. What cables that are used for home exterior?

5. A type of cable that is suitable for direct burial.

6. What are the difference between MC and Ac cable?

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Reflective Learning
Reflect what you have learned in this module.

Let Us Reflect

The application of flexible cables in industrial plants and installations shall

be limited to: ‐ welding cables;
trailing cables, e.g. for movable equipment, hand tools, hand lamps; ‐
winches, hoists, soot blowers, and electric motors, if connected by means of
a nearby intermediate junction box.
An earth continuity conductor, equal in cross‐
sectional area to the largest phase conductor, shall be provided. This require
ment applies even when the cable is armored.

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1. C
2. D
3. B
4. C
5. C
6. D
7. D
8. B
9. C
10. B
1.
Answer key to Activities
References

 https://www.slideshare.net/danielmanaog14/k12-module-in-
tle-8-electrical
 Technology and livelihood education Industrial Arts Learners
Module 1
 Philippine Electrical Code. 2000 Edition.
 Cardenas, Elpidio.1989, Fundamental and Elements of
Electricity.
 Philippines: national Bookstore.
 http://sam.dgs.ca.gov/TOC/3800/3861.htm
 http://electrical.about.com/od/electricaltools/tp/top16electrica
ltools.htm
 http://lpulaguna.edu.ph/wp-
content/uploads/2016/08/4.LABORATORY-BORROWER-SLIP-
USING-VBA-MACRO-PROGRAMMING-FOR-THE-COLLEGE-OF-
ALLIED-MEDICINE.pdf
 https://www.slideshare.net/danielmanaog14/k12-module-in-
tle-8-electrical
 Technology and livelihood education Industrial Arts Learners
Module 1
 Philippine Electrical Code. Year 2000 Edition.
 Fundamental and Elements of Electricity by: Elpidio Cardenas.
Copyright 1989 National Bookstore.
 Institute of Electrical Engineers in the Philippines Inc., (2017)
Philippine Electrical Code, Volume 1.
 Espineli, Noel M., delos Santo, Gina C., Building Wiring
Installation NC II, 2008, pp. 56-65

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 Disclaimer

This Self-Learning module (SLM) was developed by the Electrical Installation

and Maintenance Teacher of Tagum National Trade School with the primary
objectives of preparing for and addressing the new normal essentials.
Contents of this module were based on DepEd’s Most Essential Learning
Competencies (MELC).
This supplementary material to be used by all learners of Tagum National
Trade School beginning SY 2020-2021

We highly encourage feedback, comments and

Recommendations.

For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education –Region XI

Tagum City Division
Tagum National Trade School
Apokon Tagum City

Philippines
Land line:
(64) 218-0711
(64) 216-2763

Email Address: [email protected]

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