Why Single Core Cables Should Have Armour Made Of: Unveiling the Crucial Benefits
What To Know
- Armoured cables are commonly used in applications where the cable may be subjected to mechanical stress, such as in underground installations, or in environments where there may be a high risk of damage, such as in industrial or utility settings.
- They are also used in residential installations, where there may be a high risk of damage to the cable from external forces, such as children or pets.
- Armor is necessary in single core cables when there is a risk of mechanical damage to the cable.
Single Core Cables are one of the most crucial parts of any electrical system. These cables are designed to withstand a lot of wear and tear, but they can become damaged over time if they are not properly maintained. One of the main ways that these cables can become damaged is by having armour made of the wrong material. In this article, I am going to explain why single core cables should have armour made of copper.
Why Is Single Core Cables Should Have Armour Made Of?
Single core cables with armour are necessary for a range of applications, including industrial, utility, and residential installations. The purpose of armour is to protect the cable from damage, which could otherwise lead to electrical faults and outages.
Armoured cables consist of a central conductor, which is surrounded by a layer of insulation, and then by an outer metallic sheath. The sheath provides mechanical protection, preventing damage to the cable from external forces, such as impact, pressure, or bending.
There are several types of armour that can be used in armoured cables, including:
* Steel tape armour (STA): Steel tape armour consists of multiple steel tapes, which are helically wound around the cable. It provides a high level of mechanical protection, but is susceptible to corrosion.
* Steel wire armour (SWA): Steel wire armour consists of multiple steel wires, which are helically wound around the cable. It provides a high level of mechanical protection, but is susceptible to corrosion.
* Aluminium wire armour (AWA): Aluminium wire armour consists of multiple aluminium wires, which are helically wound around the cable. It provides a high level of mechanical protection, but is susceptible to corrosion.
* Non-metallic armour (NMAC): Non-metallic armour consists of multiple layers of fibreglass, which are helically wound around the cable. It provides a high level of mechanical protection, but is susceptible to damage.
Armoured cables are commonly used in applications where the cable may be subjected to mechanical stress, such as in underground installations, or in environments where there may be a high risk of damage, such as in industrial or utility settings. They are also used in residential installations, where there may be a high risk of damage to the cable from external forces, such as children or pets.
Overall, armoured cables are an important part of electrical systems, providing protection against damage and ensuring the reliability of the system.
What Are The Different Types Of Armor Used In Single Core Cables?
- 1. Steel tape armor
- 2. Steel wire armor
- 3. Aluminum armor
- 4. Braided armor
How Does Armor Protect Single Core Cables?
A cable is the lifeline for transmitting power and data. A cable break is a nightmare for the maintenance team. Hence, it is essential for the cable manufacturers to use good-quality materials to ensure the cable’s longevity.
Armor is the outer covering that shields the cable. It protects the cable from external damage and abrasion. The single core cables are the most vulnerable, and the armor is the only protection for them.
Armoring is the process of making the cable resistant to mechanical and environmental damage. Armoring is a crucial step in the production of single core cables. The armor protects the cable from external forces, including water, fire, and rodents.
Single core cables are protected by different types of armor. The armor may be made of galvanized steel, aluminum, or stainless steel. The armor’s thickness depends on the length of the cable and the voltage rating.
Galvanized steel armor is the most common type of armor. It is durable, resistant to corrosion, and easy to install. Aluminum armor is lightweight and easy to install. Stainless steel armor is the most expensive but the most durable.
The armor is attached to the cable using a process called extrusion. The armor is extruded onto the cable’s sheath. The extrusion process ensures that the armor is firmly attached to the cable.
The armor is the most critical part of the cable. It protects the cable from damage and ensures the cable’s longevity.
When Is Armor Necessary For Single Core Cables?
Armor is necessary in single core cables when there is a risk of mechanical damage to the cable. This includes situations where the cable may be exposed to sharp objects, extreme temperatures, or heavy loads. Armor can also provide protection against electrical interference. In areas where the cable is at risk of being damaged by environmental factors, armor can help to protect the cable and ensure that it continues to function as intended.
What Are The Key Considerations For Choosing Armor For Single Core Cables?
Armoring a single core cable involves protecting it from damage, moisture, and heat. To achieve this, you need to consider the following key factors:
1. Environment: Understand the environment where the cable will be installed. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals or physical stress can impact the choice of armor.
2. Mechanical protection: The armor should provide adequate mechanical protection. Steel armor is best suited for areas with a high risk of physical damage, while aluminum armor is lighter and more suitable for indoor applications.
3. Flexibility: The armor should be flexible enough to accommodate movement without causing damage to the cable.
4. Heat dissipation: If the cable will be installed in a hot environment, the armor should have a high heat-conducting capacity to prevent overheating.
5. Ease of installation: The armor should be easy to install and remove, as it may need to be repaired or replaced over time.
6. Cost: Armor can be expensive, so consider your budget and the level of protection you need before making a decision.
By considering these factors, you can choose an armor that provides the necessary protection for your single core cable.
What Are The Different Types Of Materials That Can Be Used For Armor In Single Core Cables?
The armor of a single core cable consists of several layers of different materials. The outermost layer is the sheathing, which is typically made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC provides protection against moisture, sunlight, and physical damage.
Beneath the sheathing is the armor layer, which is made of galvanized steel. The armor provides mechanical strength and protection against electrical interference. It is also coated with PVC to provide additional protection against moisture.
Beneath the armor is the inner insulation layer, which is made of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP). PE or PP provides electrical insulation and protection against electrical interference. It is also coated with PVC to provide additional protection against moisture.
Beneath the inner insulation layer is the core, which is made of copper or aluminum. The core carries the current and is insulated by the inner insulation layer.
The materials used in the armor of a single core cable are chosen based on their properties. PVC provides protection against moisture, sunlight, and physical damage, while galvanized steel provides mechanical strength and protection against electrical interference. PE or PP provides electrical insulation and protection against electrical interference, while copper or aluminum carries the current.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, single core cables should have armor made of aluminum in order to protect them from damage. Aluminum is a strong and durable material that can withstand wear and tear, and it is also lightweight, making it easy to work with. By using aluminum armor, single core cables will be protected from electrical surges, cuts, and other hazards, ensuring that they last longer and perform better.
