What Types of Power Cables Can You Get
Power cables are an important component of any electrical system. They are vastly used for transmitting electric signals. This is done in high frequency to reduce losses and saving power. It is an assemblage of one or more electric conductors used for transmission of electric power. They are widely used as permanent wiring in buildings, run overhead, or underground.
There are several types of cables being manufactured to cater to the different requirements in the industry. The selection must be done considering the technical specifications of the cable.
The two most popular categories of power cables are the
1. HT cables: They are used for long distance wiring and transporting. The powerhouses are situated in some remote locations away from the city for safety purposes. Being resource intensive, they are kept at height to avoid thefts of material as well as power.
2: LT Cables: Another popularly used cable meant for low voltage transmission. They are mainly used in residential and commercial places transmitting electricity from the substations. They are prone to damage as risks of losing power in transportation are possible.
The power cables can be made in different types and because of the variety in sizes and shapes, it can get very complicated when in use. They include
Single conductors: They are very flexible and come with different voltage insulations and amps. The price varies according to the size and shape. They are applied in locomotive cabling, DLO, entertainment and stage lighting.
The DLO cables are slightly rigid and have the capacity to carry upto 2000 volts enclosed in copper strands and rubber jackets
Welding cables come with flexible copper strands and can carry upto 600 volts.
Multi conductor cables are used in extension cords, SOOW cables and cords, type G-GC, portable cords, and type W cords. The SOOW cords can be used like the extension cords if the plugs are not added to the ends. They are vastly used to supply power to generators etc while working on outdoor jobs.
There are many manufacturers that produce power cables and cords out to meet the varying demands. It is important that you use the right cord, or it could be dangerous as well as may not work perfectly. It is recommended to take the suggestion of a qualified electrician before taking a decision on what you are intending to use it for. Do not compromise on quality just to get the cables in low prices.
Cupro-nickel as the alloy is often referred as comes in different wire ratio combinations of the two metals. The nickel copper wire is available in combinations of 90% and 10% nickel, 75% copper with 25% nickel (with a tinge of about 0.05% manganese), 55% copper with 45% nickel, 70% copper with 30% nickel. There is a variance in thermal conductivity and is lower when the nickel quantity is more. The blended alloy is used vastly in automobile, petrochemical, oil, electronic and electrical sectors.