Without doubt, the materials used in electrical applications like building and communications wire, fiber optic cabling and conduit must attain high standards of reliability and safety. Vinyl is the material used most frequently in wire and cable insulation and jacketing, as well as in rigid nonmetallic (NM) conduit and cable management systems. In this section, you'll learn more about how vinyl components impact the fire safety and reliability of a building's electrical system, and explore other historical, technical and environmental attributes of vinyl electrical components.

In addition to nonmetallic conduit, vinyl is used in a number of other electrical applications, from simple house wire to complex telecommunications circuitry. Growing applications include coaxial cable and fiber optic cable. Vinyl also is found in a number of electrical components, such as connectors and boxes.

Wiring in appliances, cords on power tools, and automotive systems all rely on vinyl insulation to maintain electrical power, and vinyl sheathing to protect against abrasion, cuts, chemicals and moisture.