What is the most common insulation material used for non-plenum cables?

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is the most common insulation material used for non-plenum cables due to its excellent combination of durability, cost-effectiveness, and electrical performance. PVC provides good resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and moisture, making it suitable for many indoor installations, where it can be used safely without the fire safety concerns associated with plenum spaces.

Non-plenum cables typically have a lower risk of fire spread when installed in spaces without air circulation. Therefore, manufacturers and installers prefer PVC for indoor applications where plenum-rated materials, such as those designed for air-handling spaces and requiring reduced flame spread, are not necessary. This practicality, alongside its compatibility with a variety of electrical environments, solidifies PVC as the go-to choice for non-plenum cable insulation. In contrast, other materials like XLPE, TPE, and PE may offer specific advantages in certain scenarios, but they do not match the overall suitability of PVC for non-plenum applications.