Electric Cables

Description

Electric cables are defined as insulated electrical conductors used for transmitting electrical power. Electrical cables may contain more than one metal conductor, which may be individually insulated. The cable design, material, and insulation provided are the three crucial parameters that designate the performance of cables. They must be designed in such a way that will facilitate the device connected to operate at its full capacity. In addition, cables must be able to transmit full load power without any significant drop in voltage. Aluminum and copper are the commonly used conductors in electrical cables. Rubber and plastic are the common materials used to insulate electric cables. Cable sizing and installation are done with utmost care in order to prevent damage while handling high voltage currents.

Types

The following are some of the basic types of electric cables:

• Coaxial cables
• Multicore cables
• Optical fiber cables
• Ribbon cables
• Single cables
• Twisting cables

Based on their mode of construction, electric cables are classified as:

• Twinax cables
• Twisted Pair Cables, which are again classified into
  • Unshielded Twisted Pair Cables (UTP)
  • Shielded Twisted Pair Cables (STP)
• Shielded cables
• Flexible cables

Based on their application, electric cables are classified as:

• Arresting cables
• Bowden cables
• Heliax cables
• Direct-buried cables
• Heavy-lift cables
• Elevator cables

Based on the material used, electric cables are classified as:

• Aluminium Cables
• Armoured Cables
• Copper Cables

Features

• Electric cables are shielded to provide resistance against fire, chemicals, moisture and sunlight
• Electric cables are made up of rubber coatings so that they are easy to handle and are very flexible

Application

Electric cables are generally used in all electrical devices for commercial, industrial and residential purposes. They are also used for general household purposes such as in lights, air conditioners, fans, computers, etc.