Electrical cables are used in many places to carry power and electricity safely. These sites include homes, offices, utilities, and industries. You can use these cables to power lights and operate electrical systems.
So, you must know the different types of electrical cables, their sizes, and protection methods. We will explain all of these aspects in our today’s guide.
Electrical Cable Types
You can use electrical cables to deliver power toward different areas. Each cable has a different job. So, you can choose a cable based on safety, voltage, load and where you want to use it. Now let’s see the main types of electrical cables.
1. Low Voltage Cable
Low voltage cables are used to carry electricity for small devices and home circuits. You can use them for lights, fans, switches and other basic appliances. These cables work better under 1000 volts.
It has a voltage rating of 0.6 to 1.0 kV. They are safe, flexible and easy to install. So, you should choose them when you need power in normal indoor areas. Low voltage cable also called LV cables.
2. Flexible Cable
Flexible cables bend easily without any breakage. Because it uses soft and strong materials. These cables are perfect for devices like vacuum cleaners, robots, small machines and automated equipment.
It also contains soft insulation, so you can twist and turn them safely. However, when you install them, you must use a cable drag chain for protection. Also, do not twist or force the cable to move.
3. High Voltage Cable
High voltage cables can transfer large amounts of electricity over long distances. Its most common applications include: best for power plants, factories, renewable energy projects and big buildings.
Because, these cables have strong insulation to keep you safe. Further, its shielding stops electromagnetic interference. Hence, it can resist harsh environments and fire.
4. Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cables transmit data and signals such as TV, internet and radio signals. You can use them in homes, offices, broadcasting systems and to connect a satellite antenna.
These cables have a central wire, conductors, insulation and a shielding layer to protect signals from interference. That’s why coaxial cables are used for clear and fast signal transmission.
5. Solar Cables
You can use solar cables to carry electricity from solar panels to your home or battery system. These cables are widely used in solar power systems and industries. Solar cables have the power to resist sunlight, heat as well as water.
Hence, they provide you maximum protection when used for outdoor places. Additionally, they mostly have colors: red for positive and black for negative.
6. Medium Voltage Cable
If we compare it with low voltage cables, medium voltage cables deliver electricity at higher levels. But, it carries lower power than high voltage. You use them in your factories, large buildings or local power networks. These cables are made with strong insulation to keep you safe. Its major types include:
- RHVhMVh cables
- XLPE Cables
- RHZ1 Cables
7. Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable
Non-metallic sheathed cables contain plastic cover instead of metal. They are easy to install and safe in dry indoor areas. You use them in homes and offices for lights, outlets or small appliances. It generally has two or more wires inside with a ground wire for safety.
8. Armored Cable (AC)
Armored cables have a strong metal which covers and protects the wires inside. You can use them in factories, outdoor areas, ceiling for lights or places where cables may get damaged.
They are safe, durable plus resist impact. You can also use armored cables for underground and marine applications. These cables require low maintenance and are also available at affordable rates.
9. Control Cable
Control cables are very flexible and can work in both fixed and moving setups. Mainly, they carry signals to operate machines and equipment. You will see these cables used in factories, household appliances, automation systems and electrical panels.
These cables have strong insulation to prevent interference and protect the wires. You should choose a control cable when you need safe and reliable control of machines and devices.
10. Rubber Electrical Cable
Rubber cables have a soft and strong rubber coating that shields the wires. You can use these cables for tools, devices, machines, and outdoor equipment. They are flexible, durable, resist heat, water and abrasion. You can bend and twist it easily without damage. Plus, its insulation keeps electricity safe and prevents shocks as well.
11. Battery Cable
You can use battery cables to connect batteries with devices or power systems. People use them for cars, solar energy systems, industrial machinery and backup electricity. They can carry a high current safely. These cables have thick insulation to prevent short circuits. Some battery cables also have flexible construction to handle vibration.
12. Halogen-Free Cable
High security halogen-free (LSZH) cables do not release harmful gases when they burn. So, you use them in buildings, tunnels, emergency circuits and public places for safety. These cables resist fire and reduce smoke and toxic fumes.
You choose them when you want safer wiring which protects people and equipment in case of fire. They are also suitable for individual connections and mobile installations.
13. Twisted Pair Cable
In twisted pair cables, you will see two wires twisted together to reduce signal disruption. This is the reason, these cables are mostly used for internet, telephone or network connections.
They can transfer data over short or long distances which depend on the type of twisted cable. These cables are ideal for clear signals and reliable communication.
14. Fiber Optic Cable
Fiber optic cable transmits data with the use of light. They don’t use electricity for transmission. You can use them for high-speed internet, TV, data centers and telephone connections. They can send information quickly over long distances without losing signal quality. So, you can choose them when you want fast and clear communication.
15. HDMI Cable
These cables are generally used to carry both video and audio signals in one wire. HDMI cable is ideal to connect TVs, computers, gaming consoles and projectors. They provide you with high-quality pictures and sound. These cables also support 4K and 3D content. You choose them when you want fast and high-quality connections for your devices or setup.
16. Category 5E Cable
Category 5E cables are widely used for network and internet connections. They can carry data at high speeds and reduce signal loss. Well, 5E cables work at frequencies up to 100 MHz and support data speeds up to 1 Gbps.
You can use them for distances 100 meters or more. These cables are ideal for ethernet, fast ethernet plus gigabit ethernet networks.
17. PVC Power Cable
PVC power cables send electricity to appliances, lights and machines. You use them in homes, offices, commercial or industrial buildings. They have a plastic (PVC) cover which keeps the wires safe from damage, water and dust.
Moreover, you choose them when you need a safe, durable or reliable cable for daily electrical use. PVC electric cables have excellent mechanical strength and are ideal for electric conductor protection.
18. Shielded Electrical Cables
Shielded electrical cables design with a protective layer around the wires to block interference. This shielding layer is basically made of braided copper or copper/aluminum foil. These cables work well for computers, audio systems & sensitive equipment. They also keep signals strong and reduce noise from other electrical sources.
19. Instrumentation Cable
Instrumentation cables transfer signals to measure, monitor or control equipment. These cables work with multiple conductors, so they can carry low-energy electrical signals. You can use them in factories, power plants and automation systems. They have strong insulation to prevent interference.
You choose them when you need precise and reliable signal transmission. Many industries such as oil or gas, offshore rigs, petrochemicals and cement factories usually use them.
20. Communication Cables
These cables are used to transfer voice, video data, optical or electrical signals. Unlike power cables, it works with low voltage and low current. Communication cables contain many wires or optical fibers inside an insulating layer.
Also, the protective outer jacket shields them, which keeps the signals clear and prevents interference. You can use them for telephones, internet & TV networks.
21. Direct Burial Cable
Direct burial cables are manufactured to be installed underground without extra protection. These cables are used in cities, highways and other places. Because they do not need poles or additional equipment.
You have to place them around 0.8 meters deep. Also add 10 cm of sand or fine soil under the cable and top it with bricks or concrete slabs.
22. Fire-Resistant Cables
If we talk about fire resistant cables, they are especially made to keep working during a long lasting fire. You can use these electrical cables for high public traffic such as airports, hospitals, subways and tunnels.
The main purpose of these wires is to keep functional emergency systems. As a result, alarms, smoke extractors, water pumps and safety signals can continue working in critical situations.
23. Single Core Cables
Single core electrical cables actually have only one conductor inside the insulation. You can trust them when you need a straightforward and efficient way to carry electrical power or signals.
They are common in household wiring, small appliances, control panels and automotive systems. In addition, their simple design makes them easy to install and reliable for low to medium-voltage applications.
24. Multicore Cables
In contrast to single core cables, multicore cables are made with two or more insulated conductors inside a single outer jacket. They keep wiring organized and make installation simple for you.
These cables are widely used in audio systems, control panels, industrial machines, computer networks and communication equipment. You should install them when you require multiple signals or power lines in one cable.
25. MC-LED Cable
Engineers design MC-LED cables specially for LED lighting systems. It has copper conductors, a strong aluminum armor & a built-in grounding wire. It can carry both power and control signals in one armored cable.
With these cables, you can handle lower loads of LED fixtures safely. That’s why it is also an affordable option for you.
Electrical Cable Sizes
The size of electrical cable defines the maximum amount of current it can safely carry.
- AWG (American Wire Gauge): Wire thickness standard
- mm²: Conductor cross-section
- Current: Safe electricity flow
| Cross Sectional Area (mm²) | AWG | Consumption of Current | Applications |
| 6 mm² | 10 | Medium | Electric water heater, blenders & microwave |
| 10 mm² | 8 | Mid-to-high | Outdoor electrical plugs and refrigerators |
| 16 mm² | 6 | High load | Electric power connections, air conditioners or electric stoves |
| 25 mm² | 4 | Very high | Solar power system and industrial equipment |
| 2.5 mm² | 14 | Low current | Lamps and Common power circuits |
| 4 mm² | 12 | Medium | Kitchen gadgets & lighting |
| 1. 5 mm² | 16 | Very low current | Low-power devices and monitoring systems |
What Type of Electrical Cable Can Be Buried?
Not all electrical cables can be buried underground safely. Only certain electrical cables are made for underground installation. Below are major ones.
Direct Burial Wire
Direct burial wires are specially made to be installed straight into the ground without extra conduits. They have strong insulation and a protective outer layer to resist moisture, soil pressure and physical damage.
Underground Service Entrance Cable
You can use these cables to transfer electricity from utility lines directly into buildings. They are designed to carry high current safely and stay functional in underground conditions. These cables are ideal for commercial and industrial installations.
Underground Feeder Cable
You can use UF cables to carry electricity from a main power source to different parts of a building or facility. These cables are designed for underground installation with strong insulation and protective layers to resist physical damage.
Aluminum Triplex Cable
Aluminum triplex cables provide a reliable way to distribute electricity to residential areas. With three aluminum conductors twisted together, they combine strength and lightweight design. These properties made them ideal for both overhead and underground power lines.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Cables
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) cables are built with a tough and durable outer layer. It protects the wires from moisture and chemical damage. They are ideal options for underground installations and water-rich areas where long-lasting and safe cable performance is required.
Electrical Cable Protection
To increase the lifespan of electrical cables, you should use proper insulation of wires and covers which shield them from harm. For example: you can use cable cover plates and tiles for maximum wires protection.
Moreover, safety slopes and protective cable panels will keep electrical safe from foot or vehicle traffic. You can also secure cables with clips or ties to keep them organized.
Threaded Metal Conduit
Threaded metal conduit (TMC) is a type of metal tubing, which is used to protect and route electrical wires. It is made of steel or aluminum. You can use it in industrial and outdoor installations where cables need strong protection from mechanical damage.
How To Join Electric Cable?
With proper connection of electrical cables, you can prevent short circuits and power loss. You have to follow below steps to safely join cables.
- Turn off power
- Strip insulation
- Align wires
- Twist or connect conductors
- Insulate the joint
- Secure cable with tape
- Test the connection
How Much Do Electric Cables Cost?
Due to many types of electrical cables and their different features, the price is not fixed. The cost varies according to cable properties, brand and its voltage range. However, the estimated price range for electrical cable is $0.10 to $0.50 per meter. If you want to buy heavy duty cables, the cost can be increased to 3-4 USD dollars.
Difference Between Electrical Wire and Cable
A wire is a single conductor which is used to carry electricity for simple circuits such as lighting or outlets. On the other hand, a cable is a bundle of multiple wires inside a protective sheath. It offers extra safety organization and durability. Wires are easier for small jobs, but cables are better for heavy-duty or complex installations.
Conclusion
I hope you now have enough knowledge about types of electrical cables. This information is useful for you to make smart decisions and select the right cable for your homes or industrial project.
If you have any questions, you can contact us for free consultation. We also provide electric safety solutions at an affordable rate.
FAQs
What is the Lifespan of Electrical Cables?
The lifespan of electrical cables depends on their quality and installation conditions. These cables can last 20 to 40 years. But, high-quality and well-protected cables may last 35 to 40 years or more.
Why Are Electrical Cables Covered With Plastics?
Electrical cables are covered with plastic to insulate the wires, conductors and prevent electric shocks. With a plastic shield, you can also protect cables from moisture, heat and chemical damage.
What Are the Different Types of Electrical Cables Used in UK Homes?
In UK homes, twin and earth cables are mostly used for lighting and outlets. Armoured cables protect outdoor or high-risk areas. Coaxial cables connect TVs and internet plus flexible cables power appliances like lamps and kettles.
What Size Electrical Cable Do I Need For Sockets and Lighting?
For home wiring, you can use 1.5 mm² cables for lighting and 2.5 mm² cables for power outlets. But, high-power appliances such as electric showers require 4 mm² or 6 mm² cables. In short, you must select the cable according to the appliance’s electricity demand.
How Do You Dispose of Electrical Cable Properly?
You should never throw electrical cable in regular trash. You need to take them to authorized recycling centers or electronic waste facilities. If the cables are still usable, you can donate or sell them to extend their life.
See Also:
Cable Protector: A Complete Guide To Cable Management
