A power cable is a form of electrical cable
that sends electricity from one medium to another. The types of power cables
are composed of a copper or aluminum-made conductor and an insulating coating.
The electrical power cable is generally installed in apartments and other
structures to maintain the supply of electricity.
This article will help you to know about the common forms of
power
cables and the ideal place to find them. So, let's start.
Power cable types
The numerous types of power cables are crucial for varying
reasons. Knowing them can help you in understanding each of their
functionalities and restrictions. Moreover, if you know the types of power
cables, can help you solve a problem if an issue arises. The various power
cable types are:
· Low
voltage cable:
These types of power cables are suitable for 0.6/1KV
electricity modes. Among the many low-voltage wiring types, the PVC-insulated
cable is the most common. Aluminum or copper is used as the conductor. These
types of power cables are generally for residential and commercial purposes,
like electrifying lights, shops, and devices.
·
Medium voltage cable:
Justifying its name, medium voltage cables are crafted for
systems having a voltage of 600 and 69,000 volts. XLPE is the most popular
medium-voltage cable class which means Cross-Linked Polyethylene. This cable
form is commonly used in industrial applications. Medium voltage cables are
useful for sending electricity to buildings and heavy motors. Armored
cables are also used in industrial applications.
· High
voltage cable:
Systems with 69,000 volts and above are perfect for
high-voltage cables. EPR or Ethylene Propylene Rubber is the commonest type of
this power cable. Utility applications like power plants and substations use
high-voltage cables. The reason behind this is fewer power outages are caused
by this power cable type. Industrial cables are generally high-voltage cables
as they consume less electrical current.
· Flexible
cable:
This power cable type is shaped for applications where the
cable has to be twirled. PVC or polyvinyl chloride is the most common form of
flexible cable. Electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and other gadgets
use this cable type. While opting for the metal type you should consider the
flexibility requirements. If the application requires an immense amount of
flexibility, then you should select a metal with a lower elasticity modulus
like copper. On the other hand, if your application needs less flexibility, you
can use a metal of higher elasticity modulus like steel.
Ideal Cable Type for Underground Power
Distribution
These cables are used for underground power distribution in
line to save the cable and stop electrical interference. The types of power
cables are categorized to determine the maximum voltage and current they can
hold. The two most popular types of power cables are:
·
Armored cable:
This power cable variant is enclosed in a metal sheath that
shields the cable from physical deterioration and electrical interference. Armored
cables are typically used for heavy needs like lowering large motors.
Direct burial armored cable is the most popular type of underground power
cable.
·
Underground power cable:
These power cables are designed for direct burial
applications. URD or underground residential distribution is the most common
type that is used to link residences and factories to the electrical grid. A
conductor, insulation, and a protective jacket are used to make this power
cable variant.
By reading this article, you have known the basics of power
cable types which will help you when buying. A wide range of sizes, voltage
ratings, and insulation substances are available for power cables. Select the
power cable for the voltage and amperage you require.
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