When it comes to delivering high-quality, durable, and innovative cable and conduit solutions for commercial, industrial, and residential applications, AFC Cable Systems stands out as a leader in the industry. Founded in 1926 and headquartered in New Bedford, Massachusetts, AFC Cable Systems has built a reputation for developing products that meet and exceed the highest safety standards, efficiency requirements, and performance expectations in electrical wiring.
In this article, we will explore the history, product offerings, benefits, applications, and innovations of AFC Cable Systems, while shedding light on why it is considered a top choice among electricians, contractors, and engineers across North America.
A Brief History of AFC Cable Systems
AFC Cable Systems, formerly known as American Flexible Conduit Company, began operations with a simple goal: to manufacture reliable and flexible conduit systems. Over time, the company expanded its offerings and became a staple in the electrical industry. In 1999, AFC Cable Systems was acquired by Atkore International, one of the largest providers of electrical raceway products globally.
This acquisition strengthened AFC’s capabilities, giving it access to broader distribution, increased research and development support, and the ability to diversify its product line while maintaining the quality standards it had always upheld.
Product Portfolio of AFC Cable Systems
AFC Cable Systems specializes in cable, conduit, and wiring solutions tailored to suit various installation environments. Below is a breakdown of their most prominent product categories:
1. Armored Cables (MC and AC Cables)
AFC is best known for its armored cables, which are ideal for commercial and industrial wiring applications. These include:
- MC Luminary Cables: Combine power and control circuits, ideal for lighting applications.
- MC-Quik Cables: Feature a labor-saving design for faster installation.
- AC Cable (Type AC): Also known as BX cable, used in commercial buildings and constructed with an interlocked armor.
2. Flexible Metal Conduits (FMC)
AFC manufactures high-quality flexible metal conduits that provide mechanical protection for wiring in places where rigid conduit is impractical.
3. Non-Metallic Products
This includes non-metallic conduits and accessories made from PVC or other plastics, providing corrosion resistance and flexibility for underground or outdoor use.
4. Liquidtight Conduits
These are watertight conduits used in wet or outdoor locations. Available in metallic and non-metallic versions, they are suitable for HVAC units, outdoor lighting, and marine environments.
5. Cable Accessories and Fittings
AFC also offers a wide range of connectors, couplings, and clamps designed to work seamlessly with their cables and conduits.
Innovative Solutions by AFC Cable Systems
AFC Cable Systems invests heavily in research and development to meet the growing demands of modern electrical installations. Some of their groundbreaking innovations include:
1. MC Luminary Multizone Cable
This is a game-changer in lighting control systems, allowing multiple lighting zones to operate on a single cable assembly. It drastically reduces the amount of cable required and simplifies the wiring process.
2. ColorSpec® Cables
ColorSpec is a color-coded cable jacket system that helps identify different systems during installation. This system is widely adopted in healthcare, hospitality, and education sectors.
3. MC Glide™ Cable
One of the latest innovations, MC Glide™ is engineered to reduce cable friction during pulling, speeding up installation and reducing physical strain on workers.
4. Hospital Grade Cables
These armored cables are designed for healthcare facilities and meet stringent safety and reliability standards. They are used in patient care areas and are essential for life-safety circuits.
Applications of AFC Cable Systems
AFC Cable Systems provides solutions for nearly every sector requiring reliable electrical infrastructure. Here are some key areas of application:
1. Commercial Buildings
From office complexes to shopping malls, AFC’s MC and AC cables are used for power, lighting, and control wiring.
2. Industrial Facilities
In manufacturing plants and warehouses, armored and liquidtight cables are preferred due to their durability and protection against physical damage.
3. Healthcare Institutions
AFC’s hospital-grade products are vital for critical care areas, offering enhanced protection and compliance with NFPA 99 and NEC guidelines.
4. Educational and Government Facilities
ColorSpec and MC Luminary cables are widely used in schools and government buildings for energy-efficient lighting and easy system identification.
5. Residential Construction
Though primarily commercial-focused, AFC’s flexible conduits and small-scale armored cables also see usage in high-end residential projects and multi-unit housing.
Why Choose AFC Cable Systems?
There are several compelling reasons why AFC Cable Systems is a preferred brand in the electrical construction industry:
1. Reliability and Durability
AFC products are built to last, offering robust protection against environmental and mechanical damage.
2. Code Compliance
All AFC cables and conduits meet or exceed National Electrical Code (NEC) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
3. Time-Saving Designs
Innovations like MC Glide™ and Quik Cables are engineered to reduce installation time, translating to lower labor costs and faster project completion.
4. Wide Distribution Network
With the backing of Atkore, AFC Cable Systems has access to an extensive supply chain, ensuring product availability across North America.
5. Customer-Centric Approach
AFC provides excellent technical support, detailed product documentation, and training resources to help contractors, specifiers, and electricians make informed decisions.
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
AFC Cable Systems also plays a part in promoting environmental sustainability. Their manufacturing processes are optimized for energy efficiency, and many of their products are made from recycled materials. Furthermore, by reducing installation time and waste, AFC’s labor-saving solutions contribute to more eco-friendly construction practices.
Future Outlook
The future of electrical construction will involve smarter, more energy-efficient systems—and AFC Cable Systems is well-positioned to lead that charge. With continued investment in research and development, and a commitment to innovation, the company is expected to expand its range of smart building solutions, including more integration-ready wiring systems compatible with IoT and automation technologies.
Conclusion
In an industry where performance, safety, and efficiency matter most, AFC Cable Systems delivers on all fronts. With nearly a century of expertise, an ever-growing product catalog, and a commitment to excellence, AFC continues to be a trusted name in electrical wiring and conduit systems. Whether you are a contractor, engineer, or facility manager, choosing AFC means investing in high-quality, future-proof, and code-compliant wiring solutions that stand the test of time.