Electrical and mains power cables are present in all applications that require power or lighting. Used to connect mains sockets, lighting, switches and more, electrical cables are essential to build an electrical infrastructure in any building.
Available with solid or stranded conductors with a varying number of cores, voltage and current ratings as well as various sheathing materials, choosing the correct cable is vital to ensuring a safe installation. Twin and earth is some of the most commonly used cable found in both residential and commercial applications and comes in a range of ratings.
Sheath Material
Mains cables vary from lightweight for standard applications, to robust for heavy duty applications. Most mains power cables are available with PVC, rubber or CPE sheaths. The outer sheath material assists in determining the environment and applications suitable for the cable.
Some examples include:
Rubber Cables
H05RR-F – Lightweight rubber sheath
H07RN-F – Heavy duty in indoor and outdoor environments
H07ZZ-F – Low smoke halogen free
H01N2-D – Rubber sheath welding cable
H07RN8-F – Submersible cable for use in water up to 10 metres
H07BN4-F – Heavy duty double insulated rubber cable
PVC Cables
H05V-K / H07V-K
H03VV-F (218-Y) - Domestic applications and light portable appliances such as radios and lamps
H05VV-F (318-Y) - Household appliances such as washing machines and fridges
H07V-K (tri-rated cable) - panel wire capable of withstanding continuous temperatures as high as 105oC
H03VVH2-F (2192Y) - 300/300V voltage rating flexible PVC cable used for indoor applications
H05VVH6-F - conveyor and lift equipment
Other Types
In addition to the harmonised cables, other types are available that include:
Curly flux – A spiral structured, extendable mains cable
NYM-J – fixed wiring cable for domestic and industrial applications
NYY-J – fixed wiring cable for areas of no mechanical stress
Uses
Industrial and commercial installations
Residential infrastructure
Power cable
Lighting cable
Appliances