How do I choose the right cable for my project?
Start from four points: system voltage, installation environment (tray, duct, buried, overhead), required current rating, and the local standard your inspector will apply. Send us these four items and we will recommend the construction and cross-section, together with the voltage-drop and short-circuit check.
What is the difference between PVC (VV) and XLPE (YJV) insulation?
PVC insulation allows a maximum continuous conductor temperature of 70 degrees C, while XLPE allows 90 degrees C. For the same cross-section XLPE carries a higher current and has lower dielectric loss, which is why it is standard for MV cable and for most new LV installations; PVC remains common where cost or flame behaviour favours it.
What is the difference between STA and SWA armour?
STA (steel tape armour) uses double galvanized steel tapes: cheaper, and adequate for direct burial where protection against compression is what matters. SWA (steel wire armour) uses galvanized steel wires and gives higher tensile strength and better impact resistance, so it is preferred for vertical runs, exposed routes and where earthing through the armour is important.
What is the difference between ABC and bare ACSR?
ABC (aerial bundled conductor) is an insulated LV overhead bundle, usually 2, 3 or 4 cores with a bare or insulated neutral, used for LV distribution where the risk of accidental contact must be minimised. ACSR is a bare steel-reinforced aluminium conductor for MV and HV overhead lines, where mechanical strength over long spans matters more than insulation.
What does 0.6/1 kV or 8.7/15 kV actually mean?
These are rated voltage designations in the form U0/U: 0.6 kV between conductor and earth, 1 kV between conductors. 8.7/15 kV follows the same logic and corresponds to a 15 kV system; a 33 kV system is usually designated 19/33 kV. Always confirm the U0/U required by your specification, not only the system voltage.
What is the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 conductor?
Class 1 is a solid conductor, normally used up to 10 mm2. Class 2 is a stranded conductor, far more flexible, and the default from 16 mm2 upwards and for armoured or large-size constructions. Class 5 and Class 6 are flexible and extra-flexible stranded conductors, used for flexible cords, welding cable and panel wiring.