1' 4-Gauge Solid SD Bare Copper Grounding Wire (Sold by Foot), Min 25 feet

Southwire BARECUSLD4R – 4 AWG Solid Bare Copper Grounding Wire

Southwire’s 4 AWG solid bare copper wire is designed for direct grounding applications in electrical distribution systems. Manufactured from high-conductivity solid copper, this wire meets the physical and electrical requirements for bonding and grounding systems in residential, commercial, and industrial environments.

This conductor is suitable for both above-grade and below-grade use where bare copper is permitted. It complies with applicable NEC provisions for grounding electrode conductors, bonding jumpers, and ground ring circuits. Common uses include service ground connections, equipment bonding, and system grounding for panels, transformers, and structural steel.

Product Features

• ✅ Solid Annealed Copper – Delivers stable conductivity and mechanical integrity across various soil conditions and installation environments.
• ✅ Corrosion-Resistant – Bare copper offers natural corrosion resistance with no additional coating or treatment required for standard conditions.
• ✅ Direct Burial Rated – Approved for use in direct earth contact or exposed above ground when installed per code.
• ✅ UL Listed – Complies with UL and NEC specifications for grounding conductors.
• ✅ Thermal Rating: Rated for 75°C ambient when used in dry locations; check installation method for derating factors.

Technical Specifications

• Conductor Material: Solid bare copper
• Gauge: 4 AWG
• DC Resistance: 0.249 Ohms per 1000 ft @ 20°C
• Temperature Rating: 75°C (dry)
• Jacket: None (bare conductor)
• Listing: UL listed, RoHS compliant
• Packaging: Sold per foot; minimum order length may apply

Installation Notes

Proper conductor sizing and routing must follow NEC Article 250. This wire is compatible with standard mechanical ground clamps, irreversible compression lugs, and exothermic welding systems. Installation should account for expansion loops where large lengths are used, and bonding to rebar or structural steel should follow local inspection authority standards.

In below-grade installations, ensure soil conditions are compatible with bare copper; in highly corrosive soils, alternative coated or tinned options may be required. Secure connections to grounding electrodes using UL-listed clamps rated for direct burial where applicable.

Application Scope

Intended for use in grounding electrode systems, bonding jumpers, service grounding, and other code-required grounding functions in electrical systems up to 600V. Frequently used in utility meter bases, panelboard terminations, ground rods, UFER installations, and structural bonding connections.

Contractor Advisory

Always verify gauge and length requirements based on calculated fault current and NEC sizing tables. When installing in concrete-encased electrode (UFER) configurations, ensure conductor is properly located per code depth and encasement standards. All terminations should be verified for mechanical tightness and corrosion resistance at final inspection.