Copper Conductors:
Copper conductors offer high electrical conductivity and low resistance, making them ideal for applications that require efficient power transmission.
Aluminum Conductors:
Aluminum conductors are lightweight and cost-effective compared to copper conductors. They are often used in overhead power lines where weight reduction is crucial.
2. Insulation Type The insulation surrounding the conductor plays a vital role in protecting it from external factors such as moisture, heat, and mechanical stress.Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) insulation provides good electrical properties while offering resistance against moisture and chemicals.
XLPE Insulation:
Cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE) insulation has superior thermal stability and can withstand higher operating temperatures compared to PVC insulation.
3. Voltage Rating The voltage rating of a multi-core cable determines its ability to handle specific levels of electrical potential difference without breakdown or damage.Low voltage cables typically have a voltage rating up to 1000V AC or 1500V DC. They are commonly used for residential wiring, control circuits, and small-scale industrial applications.
Medium voltage cables have a higher voltage rating ranging from 1kV AC up to 35kV AC or higher. These cables find application in commercial buildings, substations, distribution networks, etc.
4. Shielding Options Shielding helps protect the signal integrity by minimizing electromagnetic interference (EMI) from external sources.Foil shielding involves wrapping aluminum foil around individual pairs or overall cable construction for effective EMI protection at lower frequencies.