From a pulling standpoint, 4/C TC-ER cable is generally easier to pull than four individual 1/C #12 AWG conductors in a 1" PVC conduit for a street lighting application. Here's why: Combined Cable Construction

TC-ER cable has all the conductors bundled together with a common jacket. This means:

Less Friction

A single cable jacket creates less overall surface area in contact with the conduit than four individually jacketed conductors. Less friction means an easier pull.

Reduced Binding

Individual conductors can sometimes bind or twist against each other inside the conduit, increasing friction and making the pull more difficult. TC-ER cable is less prone to this due to its integrated construction.

Lubrication Effectiveness

Lubricant tends to be more effective with TC-ER cable because it coats the single jacket. With individual conductors, lubricant can sometimes be pushed aside, leaving some conductors with less lubrication.

Ease of Handling

The TC-ER cable is easier to handle and feed into the conduit. You're dealing with a single entity rather than four individual conductors.

NEC Considerations

TC-ER (Tray Cable - Exposed Run) is rated for direct burial and can be used in cable tray systems. If your street lighting requires running along a cable tray system, TC-ER is a suitable option. However, if you are going straight from the conduit to the light pole or fixture, other cables may be more appropriate and cost-effective.

Code Compliance

Be sure to consider the requirements in Section 310.15(B)(3)(a) of the NEC, which requires derating the allowable ampacity of conductors in a raceway when there are more than three current-carrying conductors. Also, you need to consider the fill rate allowed in the conduit according to NEC chapter 9 table 1.

However, consider these factors



Bend Radius

TC-ER cable often has a larger minimum bend radius than individual conductors. Make sure your conduit system has enough space for the required bends.

Cable Termination

TC-ER can sometimes be slightly more challenging to terminate, as you need to strip the outer jacket and separate the individual conductors. However, this is usually a minor issue.

Cost

While generally easier to install, TC-ER cable might have a different cost compared to individual conductors. Get pricing for both options and factor that into your decision.

Conduit Fill

Check the conduit fill requirements in the NEC (National Electrical Code). Ensure that the 1" conduit is adequately sized for either the four individual conductors or the TC-ER cable. Generally, TC-ER will take up more space than four individual conductors.

In summary

For ease of pulling,

TC-ER cable is generally preferred. However, always: Check local codes and specifications. Calculate conduit fill to ensure compliance. Consider bend radius requirements. Evaluate cost.* Consider the termination requirements. Flag for review