5 Common Mistakes People Make While Buying Copper Cables

 



Faulty and/or broken cables are to blame for around 49% of all electrical fires. In residential, commercial, and industrial settings, damaged wires that result in short circuits can seriously harm people and property. Additionally, inferior electric wires can become worn, fractured, or damaged in a short amount of time, requiring expensive repairs or replacements. That being said, before making a purchase, consumers must carefully consider all the essential characteristics of copper cables. Here, we'll point you to some frequent blunders to avoid while purchasing insulated copper conductors: 


1. Ignoring the wire flexibility and wire bending: It is essential to verify the mechanical qualities of insulated copper wires to put any concerns about their performance and longevity to rest. Electric cables in particular need to have exceptional flexibility and elongation capabilities since they often need to be wound into coils for use in transformers and motors. The enamel covering shouldn't be harmed in any way whether bent or stretched.


Copper magnet wires should not be very stiff either, by the same token (which can make wire winding difficult). As enamelled copper wires often have a very thin insulation layer, it is crucial to ensure that the products adhere to the surface. Make sure the wires' or conductors' enamel covering is securely fastened using high-quality adhesive and that there are no surface blemishes. Testing the cables' ability to be soldered is also necessary for varnished wires. 


2. Ignoring the resistant properties of wire cables: When installed and maintained correctly, the best-enamelled copper conductors can survive for several years. However, issues may arise quickly if the cables you buy have insufficient resistance qualities. Given that electrical wires are frequently exposed to extremely high temperatures, you should examine the dielectric breakdown voltage and heat-shock resistance of the cables and conductors you intend to purchase.


The wire coating shouldn't fracture at high temperatures. Before making a purchase, buyers should also get any lingering questions about the anti-corrosion and anti-deterioration qualities of insulated wires answered. When enamelled copper wires of guaranteed quality come into contact with chemical reagents, solvents, and/or insulating oils, they are not harmed.


3. Not choosing wires of the correct size: The traditional "one size fits all" approach does not apply when choosing magnet wires for electrical purposes. Leading copper wire providers often offer wires and conductors in a variety of shapes, sizes, and diameters.


You must be aware of the precise type of wires you require and advise the provider accordingly to avoid usability problems and potential electrical accidents. This will make it easier for them to offer the "correct" wiring options. Inquire about the different wire grades the manufacturer offers. To choose the wire type that would be best suited for your application, you must also be aware of the various Standard Wire Gauge (SWG) values of wires. 


4. Not choosing pin-hole tested cable wires: The likelihood of "electrical current leakage" and subsequent short-circuits increases significantly if the enamel coating of insulated copper conductors has gaps or abrasions.


These voids are referred to as "pinholes." It can be extremely unsafe to use electrical lines with pinholes beyond the allowable limit, and cable breakdown is a continual worry. This is where the significance of inspecting copper-insulated conductors for pinholes comes into play. For determining the number of discontinuities (or pinholes) in copper wires, a saltwater bath solution is commonly employed (with a precise combination of saline, phenolphthalein, and sodium sulphate). 


5. Overlooking the quality: It is not recommended to choose enamelled copper wires from the very first vendor you encounter. Not all wires and cables are of the same quality, so you should always evaluate their general dependability, safety, and possible long-term performance.


In addition to the basic chemical and mechanical characteristics of wires, check to see that your cables and conductors have excellent tensile strength and yield strength. Ask about potential issues with electric wires and how the manufacturer you choose protects against them. Take into account the wires' non-toxicity and environmental friendliness as well. If possible, get insulated copper cables from a business that has the necessary ISO certification(s), as this will demonstrate the company's dedication to quality control. 


These are 5 common things people overlook when they are purchasing copper cables. If you are searching for quality industrial cables, check out Cabcon India at www.cabconindia.com

 


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