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                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.2



We consent to the reference to our firm in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8) pertaining to the Employees' Stock Option Plan of Encore Wire Corporation
and to the incorporation by reference therein of our report dated January 22,
1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedules of
Encore Wire Corporation included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year
ended December 31, 1996, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


                                                               
                                                      /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP 
                                                                          
                                                      ERNST & YOUNG LLP     


Dallas, Texas
October 22, 1997
