As the basic components of power transmission and information transmission, wires and cables are used in a wide range of industries, from residents’ daily lives to large-scale industrial facilities. Depending on their characteristics and uses, wires and cables can be divided into several categories. The following is a detailed introduction to the classification of wires and cables from six main aspects.
1. Classification by use
1.1 Power Cables
Power cables are mainly used for power transmission and distribution, including high-voltage cables, medium-voltage cables and low-voltage cables, which are widely used in power plants, substations, transmission lines and power distribution systems of industrial and mining enterprises in the power system.
1.2 Control Cables
The control cable is mainly used for the transmission of control signals, measurement data and signal transmission in the automatic control system, and is suitable for the connection between various control systems and electronic equipment.
1.3 Communication cables
Communication cables are dedicated to transmitting audio, video, data and other signals, such as telephone lines, coaxial cables, optical fiber cables, etc., which are the cornerstone of modern communication networks.
1.4 Special cables
Special cables are designed for special environments or specific uses, such as high-temperature resistant cables, oil-resistant cables, fireproof cables, mining cables, etc., with specific performance requirements.
2. Classification by structure
2.1 Bare wires
It is constructed of conductors only, without insulation and sheathing layer, and is mainly used for overhead transmission lines.
2.2 Insulated wires
Wrap a layer of insulating material around the conductor for enhanced safety, suitable for general electrical equipment and lighting fixtures.
2.3 Power Cables
It is usually composed of conductor, insulation, shield (optional), filler, armor layer (optional) and outer sheath, with a complex structure and is suitable for high-voltage and high-current occasions.
3. Classification by insulating material
3.1 Oil-impregnated paper insulated cables
It is impregnated with mineral oil as the insulating layer of insulating paper, which has good electrical properties and mechanical strength.
3.2 Plastic insulated cables
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) and other plastics are used as insulating materials, which are widely used in low-voltage and medium-voltage cables.
3.3 Rubber insulated cables
Using natural rubber or synthetic rubber as the insulation layer, it has good flexibility and weather resistance, and is suitable for mobile or frequent bending occasions.
4. Classification by conductor material
4.1 Copper conductor cables
It has good electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance, and is the most commonly used conductor material in wire and cable.
4.2 Aluminum conductor cables
Compared with copper conductors, the cost is lower and the weight is lighter, but the conductivity is slightly inferior, which is suitable for long-distance transmission and some specific occasions.
4.3 Copper-clad aluminum cables
Combining the advantages of copper and aluminum, it not only reduces weight but also reduces cost, and is suitable for some occasions where cost is required.
5. Classified by voltage level
5.1 Low-voltage cables
Cables with rated voltage of 1kV and below are widely used in lighting, household appliances and small electrical equipment.
5.2 Medium voltage cables
Cables with rated voltages between 1kV and 35kV are often used in the power distribution systems of urban power grids and industrial and mining enterprises.
5.3 High Voltage Cables
Cables with rated voltages of 35kV and above are mainly used in transmission networks between large power plants and substations.
6. Classification according to laying method
6.1 Overhead cables
It is erected in the air by electric poles or iron towers, and is suitable for long-distance power transmission.
6.2 Direct Buried Cables
Directly buried in the soil, it needs to have good waterproof and anti-corrosion properties, and is often used in urban underground power grids.
6.3 Thru-pipe cables
It is laid by embedding in the pipeline to protect the cable from external mechanical damage, and is suitable for cable laying under roads and bridges.
6.4 Run cables along walls or along brackets
Cables are installed along fixtures such as walls, brackets, etc., and are commonly found inside buildings or in specific areas outside the building.
In summary, wires and cables can be classified in a variety of ways, each based on their specific application needs and performance characteristics. Understanding and selecting the right wires and cables is essential to ensure the stable operation of the power system and the smooth flow of information and communication.