Premium Tracer Wire Solutions | Performance Wire & Cable
- We offer both TW and THW tracer wire, featuring water-resistant and heat-stabilized thermoplastic insulation rated for temperatures up to 200°F.
- Our underground locator wire utilizes High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (HMWPE) insulation, providing superior resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and moisture compared to obsolete THHN alternatives.
- Essential for gas, water, and telecommunications applications, our tracer wire ensures accurate “direct burial” detection to prevent damage during excavation.
- Available in 6 to 14 AWG, our products are engineered for applications ranging from industrial machine circuits to municipal underground piping.
- In addition to standard 500′ to 2,500′ reels, we provide custom wire orders and high-volume shipping with industry-leading short lead times.
Tracer wire is a critical component for identifying and protecting underground assets. Based in Camden, NY, Performance Wire and Cable provides high-quality, durable wiring solutions engineered to withstand harsh environments and ensure precise location accuracy.
Understanding the Technical Specifications: TW vs. THW
While both options use thermoplastic insulation, their specific chemical resistance and thermal tolerance differ to meet diverse project requirements.
- TW (Thermoplastic, Water-Resistant): A standard, reliable choice for moisture-prone environments.
- THW (Thermoplastic, Heat & Water-Resistant): The “H” signifies enhanced heat resistance. This wire is rated for temperatures up to 93°C (200°F) when paired with its specialized Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) insulation.
Common Applications:
- Residential and industrial machine circuits.
- HVAC units and refrigeration equipment.
- Heavy-duty appliances like washing machines.
Sizing: Performance Wire and Cable offers these options in sizes ranging from 8 to 14 AWG (American Wire Gauge).
Direct Burial & Underground Tracer Wire
Commonly referred to as locator wire, underground tracer wire is essential for “direct burial” applications. It allows contractors and utility departments to pinpoint the exact location of non-metallic underground pipes before excavation begins.
Why HMWPE Insulation Matters
Unlike standard THHN wire, which is often considered obsolete for underground use due to its limited durability, our tracer wire uses High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (HMWPE) insulation.
| Feature | HMWPE Insulation (Tracer Wire) | PVC/Nylon (Standard THHN) |
| Moisture Resistance | Superior; designed for wet soil | Poor; prone to degradation |
| Durability | High resistance to crushing & abrasion | Susceptible to nicks and tears |
| Chemical Defense | Resists oils, chemicals, and soil acids | Limited protection |
Who uses it?
- Gas and Oil distributors
- Water and Sewage departments
- Telecommunications companies
- General Excavation Contractors
Availability and Custom Orders
We provide flexibility to meet the scale of any project. Our standard reels are available in lengths of 500, 1,000, and 2,500 feet.
Need a custom solution?
- Larger Reels: We can ship higher volumes per reel upon request.
- Custom Manufacturing: If our stock options (6 through 14 AWG) don’t meet your specs, we offer custom manufacturing with industry-leading short lead times.