How to choose electrical cables?

As the saying goes, safety always comes first. This applies to everything, including electrical cables. Choosing the right electrical cable is critical to ensuring safety in your homes and businesses. With the vast variety of electrical cables in the market, it could be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. However, with the right knowledge, finding the perfect electrical cable for your needs can be straightforward. In this article, we will guide you through the key factors to consider when choosing electrical cables. What Are Electrical Cables? Electrical cables are an assembly of one or more conductors put together by insulating material to transmit electricity from one point to another safely. Electrical cables are made of different materials, including copper, aluminum, and steel, and are used for different purposes. Deciding on the kind of electrical cable you want depends on the application and the amount of current passing through the cable. Factors to Consider When Choosing Electrical Cables 1. Conductor Material The material used in making an electrical cable is an essential factor to consider when choosing electrical cables. Copper is one of the most commonly used materials in making electrical conductors. This is because copper has a high conductivity rate, which makes it a perfect choice for high-current applications. Aluminum is also commonly used in making electrical cables because of its lightness and low cost. However, aluminum conductors have higher resistance than copper conductors, which means they are not suitable for high-current applications. 2. Insulation Material The insulation material in an electrical cable provides insulation to the conductors and prevents any electrical leakage. The insulation material is made of different materials, including PVC, XLPE, and rubber, among others. PVC is commonly used in making electrical cables because of its insulating and mechanical properties, which makes it ideal for indoor and outdoor applications. XLPE, on the other hand, is used in making high-voltage cables because of its excellent insulation properties, which can withstand high voltages. Rubber is commonly used in making cables used in harsh environments because of its high resistance to impact and weather elements. 3. Cable Size The size of the electrical cable is an essential factor to consider when choosing electrical cables. The size of the cable is determined by the amount of current passing through it. The size of an electrical cable is measured in terms of the cross-sectional area of the conductor, with the most common sizes being 1.0mm², 1.5mm², 2.5mm², 4.0mm², 6.0mm², and 10.0mm². When choosing the cable size, it is crucial to consider the length of the cable, the voltage level, and the application. 4. Voltage Level The voltage level is an essential factor to consider when choosing electrical cables. Electrical cables are designed to handle different voltage levels, and it is crucial to select the cable that can withstand the voltage level of the application. When choosing electrical cables, it is important to check the voltage rating of the cable and ensure that it is compatible with the voltage level of the application. 5. Environmental Conditions The environmental conditions where the electrical cable will be used are vital when choosing electrical cables. Electrical cables used in outdoor applications must be able to withstand harsh weather conditions like rain, sun, and temperature variations. If the cable will be exposed to oil, chemicals, or abrasives, it is essential to select a cable that can withstand such harsh environmental conditions. Conclusion Choosing the right electrical cable is essential to ensuring safety in your homes and businesses. When choosing electrical cables, it is crucial to consider factors like conductor material, insulation material, cable size, voltage level, and environmental conditions. With the right knowledge and understanding, choosing the perfect electrical cable for your needs will be straightforward.