Choosing Proper Primary Insulations for Electrical Multi Conductor Cables
The most important part of any cable is the insulation of the conductors. When choosing materials to insulate conductors or cables, many factors should be taken into consideration. These include electrical properties, mechanical properties, chemical properties, thermal properties, and more. Multi/Cable stocks a wide range of insulations to suit our customers needs.
Electric properties:
- dielectric strength
- insulation resistance
- insulation power factors
- charging current
- arc resistance
- tracking susceptibility
Mechanical properties:
- toughness and flexibility
- tensile, elongation and crushing strengths
- resistance to abrasion or moisture
- brittleness
Chemical properties:
- moisture absorption
- resistance to oil, gas, acids and alkalies
- stability when exposed to sunlight, ozone, or flames
Thermal properties:
- expansion and contraction
- softening and flow temperature
- compatibility with operating, ambient, or emergency overload and short circuit conditions
**Standards and specifications for cable insulations have been developed by ASTM, ICEA, CSA, UL, NEC and others. We advise consulting these organizations for complete, current, and accurate data.
***Also local code requirements often exist regulating wire and cable specification and installation. Always check code requirements before specifying or installing your wire and cable.