CL2 Cable Definition
CL2 cable is a specific classification for electrical and communication cables used in residential and commercial buildings. The “CL” stands for Class, and it is a safety rating defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Its primary purpose is to indicate that the cable is safe to be installed inside walls, ceilings, and other enclosed spaces without the need for protective metal conduit. This makes installation faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective.
| Cable Type | Rated Temp. | Rated Voltage | Use Purpose |
| CL2 | 105℃ | 150V | Class 2 circuits |
CL2 cable is constructed of extremely pure copper conductors, PVC insulation, and PVC jacket. Option with even more robust and more durable structure is available, such as weather resistance, UV resistance, and abrasion resistance, etc.
Executed Standard
UL13 (Standard for Safety Power-Limited Circuit Cables)
This standard determines the requirements for cables used in power-limited circuits.
CL2 cable corresponds with UL13 standard for safety power-limited circuit cables. The purpose of the standard is to determine whether the cable is safe for installation in building for general purpose application. In practice, this means interior application, including in-wall application.
CL2 cable test is much complicated, for the cable is affected not just the only fire but also smoke. Moreover, CL2 cable incorporates not just cable but large cable trays.
CL2 Fire Resistance
The CL2 certification specifically permits the cable to be run in “plenums” (the open spaces used for air circulation in buildings), as well as in vertical shafts (risers) and general-purpose areas. There are two common sub-classifications:
- CL2R: The “R” stands for Riser. This cable has enhanced fire resistance for vertical installations between floors, designed to prevent fire from propagating up a cable shaft.
- CL2P: The “P” stands for Plenum. This is the highest fire-resistance rating for cables. Plenum cables have a special jacketing (often FEP or PVC) that emits very low smoke and toxicity when burned. They are mandatory for use in air handling spaces (plenums) where smoke could be circulated throughout a building by the HVAC system.
Types of CL2 Cables
- CL2 Speaker Wire
For in-wall installation of home audio systems.
- CL2-Rated HDMI Cables
For running HDMI signals inside walls for clean setups.
- CL2 Ethernet Cables (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.)
For in-wall networking.
- CL2 Coaxial Cables (RG6)
For cable TV, satellite, or antenna installations.
Specification
CL2 cable is widely used in the installation of communication module, signal control system, intercoms, power limited control circuits, security system, sensors and control panels.
- 28AWGX1PAIR+28AWGX2C
| Item Name | 28AWGX1PAIR | 28AWGX2C |
| Conductor: | TS7/0.127±0.007 | TS7/0.127±0.007 |
| Insulation Diameter: | 0.85±0.08 | 0.85±0.08 |
| Jacket Overall Diameter: | 3.50±0.20 |
- 28AWGX1PAIR+26AWGX2C
| Item Name | 28AWGX1PAIR | 26AWGX2C |
| Conductor: | TS7/0.127±0.007 | TS7/0.16±0.007 |
| Insulation Diameter: | 0.85±0.08 | 1.00±0.10 |
| Jacket Overall Diameter: | 3.90±0.20 |
- 28AWGX1PAIR+24AWGX2C
| Item Name | 28AWGX1PAIR | 24AWGX2C |
| Conductor: | TS7/0.127±0.007 | TS11/0.16±0.007 |
| Insulation Diameter: | 0.85±0.08 | 1.10±0.10 |
| Jacket Overall Diameter: | 4.20±0.30 |