A cable is one of the key elements of any electrical system. It is designed for the transmission and distribution of electrical energy, as well as for ensuring communication between various devices. The reliability and safety of the entire electrical network depend on the correct choice of cable.
Main types of cables
In modern practice, many types of cables are used, which differ in design, materials, and scope of application. Here are the most common types:
1. Power cables
Power cables are designed for transmitting electrical energy in stationary installations. They are used in industrial facilities, residential buildings, substations, and urban power grids. These cables typically have copper or aluminum conductors, PVC or cross-linked polyolefin insulation, and a protective sheath.
Cables can be:
with one or several conductors
with or without armor
with varying degrees of protection against moisture, fire, and mechanical damage
2. Armored cables
Armored cables have additional protection — armor made of steel tapes or wires. This design allows them to be used in conditions where mechanical damage is possible: when laid in the ground, in industrial premises, and in open areas.
One of the popular representatives of this class is the cable ВБШв. This is an armored power cable with copper conductors, insulation and sheath made of polyvinyl chloride compound. The armor is made of two galvanized steel tapes. VBSHv is suitable for laying in the ground, in cable structures, and in premises where increased mechanical protection is required.
VBSHv cable operates in networks with voltages of 0.66 and 1 kV, is suitable for stationary installation, and is resistant to moisture and mechanical loads. Depending on the design, it may have a different number of conductors and cross-sections, which allows selecting the optimal option for a specific task. Details on the website of the company OOO «Rukabel» https://www.rucabel.ru/catalog/vbshv/
3. Cables with PVC insulation
Cables with insulation made of polyvinyl chloride compound are widely used in residential and industrial facilities. PVC provides good electrical insulation, resistance to moisture and chemical effects, as well as low cost.
4. Cables with non-combustible insulation (LS, FR)
Modern cables often have special designations indicating their fire safety:
LS (Low Smoke) — low emission of gas and smoke during combustion
FR (Fire Retardant) — does not propagate combustion
Such cables are used in crowded places, offices, and public buildings where safety in case of fire is important.
5. Data transmission cables and communication cables
In addition to power cables, the following are widely used:
symmetrical cables for data transmission (e.g., twisted pair)
optical cables for high-speed information transmission
coaxial cables for television and radio signals
Properties of cables
When choosing a cable, it is important to consider the following characteristics:
Where cables are used
Residential buildings — internal electrical network, lighting, sockets
Industrial facilities — equipment, machine tools, power lines
Underground networks — urban electrical networks, underground laying
Communication systems — data transmission, internet, TV
Transport facilities — railway stations, metro, airports
How to choose a cable
To select the right cable, it is necessary to:
Determine the purpose (power, communication, special)
Clarify the operating voltage and load power
Select the conductor material and cross-section
Take into account the laying conditions (in the ground, indoors, in the air)
Check fire safety and degree of protection