Flat 12AWG Wire Legal?

[JamesBrown]

Originally Posted by Al Skierkiewicz

Sorry I didn't see this post earlier. There is nothing illegal with this wire being used on the robot. While it is not color coded and can be used on the output of controllers, there must be some marking on it indicating polarity. I am often cautious of using "audio" wire as many companies over state specifications. What may be termed #12 may in fact merely act similar to #12 in this application. Robot wire specifications are taken from the NEC handbook for open (not in conduit or confined spaces) wiring. Another thing I would consider when looking at this wire is it's survivability on a moving robot. Bends over structural metals could breakthrough the outer cover exposing the conductive material inside.

http://www.pacificcable.com/Picture_...me=PCC-12-2-50 This site has a simmilar #12 wire listed as only being rated to 20A, FIRST, and NEC rate 12 gauge wire at 40 amps (41 for NEC). I would want a better understanding about where this 20A rating comes from before using it on a robot. The Flatwire brand site seems to imply that its product doesn't comply with NEC standards as they mention a new line that does comply to be used for power distribution.