Types of cords. Types of electrical wires and cables

Electric wires must transfer electrical energy from source to consumer. These products must perform their tasks for a long time, be reliable, and prevent malfunctions. These products include cables and wires. They are used in almost every industry and human life. Electrical wires are necessary to form a closed circuit of electric current, preventing its loss in this circuit. People who do not understand electrical engineering issues do not distinguish between different types of electrical wires and attribute all types to one category.

But this is absolutely not true. Power wires are used in different operating conditions, on different highways, they have many differences in application, their structure is arranged differently, and they have design features. Lines electrical networks may consist along their length of both overhead wires and underground cables.

Cable branching to overhead line carried out for special purposes required by local conditions.

Electric wires

The wire has a simple design, which can be divided into two parts:

1. A metal core is designed to conduct electric current.
2. An insulating layer that protects the core from contact with foreign conductors, in order to avoid unauthorized current leakage.

Air around a metal core instead of a shell made of dielectric materials can also act as insulation. In this case, the wire is made bare, and the places where the wire is attached along its path on supporting structures (pillars) are made in the form of insulators (glass, ceramic).

The conductors that conduct electric current are made of copper alloys and copper, as well as aluminum. Most innovative material The conductor is currently composite aluminum-copper. It's made for best use properties of copper and aluminum.

To perform special tasks, conductors made of steel alloys, as well as nichrome and silver, are used. In some cases, gold is used in veins for special equipment.

Features of the structure of the current-carrying core

The vein can be in the form:

• Solid wire (single core) having a certain length.
• Twisted from the finest wires (stranded), acting in parallel.

Single-strand wires are much easier to make. They have a rigid shape, are used to supply electric current when rigidly attached to supports, and have low resistance when transmitting low-frequency, direct current currents.

The cores, consisting of many wires, have a very flexible shape and conduct high-frequency current well.

Types of wires

A product in which one core is made of wire is often called a wire. But electrical wires can have multiple strands, twisted or doubled, with three or more strands.

Electrical cable

The cable has a more complex design; it is designed for reliable operation under the aggressive influence of negative environmental factors.

The number of conductors conducting current is selected according to operating conditions. They are isolated from each other.

The cable may have auxiliary elements:

• Protective braiding made of steel, wire armor or plastic.
• Filler.
• Core.
• External screen.

Each element performs its own purpose functions for certain conditions.

Electricians must know the main groups, which include cables and electrical wires:

• Power operating in installations for any voltage.
• Controls transmit data on the parameters of different systems.
• Controls are used to give signals and commands automatically or manually.
• Communications, for exchanging signals at different frequencies.

The separate group includes special purpose cables:

• Radiating, used to supply high frequency radio signals.
• Heating converts electricity into heat.

Conductors

Cable cores are made according to the same rules as wire cores, from various materials, with a single conductor or multi-wire, protected by a layer of insulation. According to the flexibility of the structure, the cables are divided into 7 groups. Group No. 1 includes cables that are difficult to bend and have a single core. The most flexible group is No. 7. Cables of this group are the most expensive.

Electrical wires with multi-wire flexible cores are equipped with special tips in the form of tubes (terminals) before installation. In the case of a monocore wire, tubes are not installed, since this makes no sense.

Shell

It performs the function of protecting the core and insulating it from damage environment, creates a seal against moisture and other factors, contains several layers of shielding and reinforcing elements.

The shell may consist of:

• Plastic.
• Fabrics.
• Metal.
• Reinforced rubber.

Plastic-based materials are used for:

• Insulation of cores and wires with increased dielectric characteristics.
• Formation of a hose with high tightness, which protects against damage and short circuits, with the structure of elements placed in it.

Cable paper impregnated with a special compound is used in high voltage cables up to 35 kilovolts. Cross-linked polyethylene is used to form the insulating properties of cables that operate in electrical devices up to 500 kilovolts with increased reliability and long term services.

For high voltage circuits up to 500 kilovolts, oil-filled cables were previously produced. They consisted of shielded conductors installed inside a sealed cavity filled with oil. Once cross-linked polyethylene was used, the design of oil-filled cables became obsolete.

Safety conditions

Cable products are subjected to special assessment, which includes:

• Behavior of the cable when shorted in the channel.
• Can the cable withstand long-term overloads?
• Cable behavior when open fire, the possibility of fire spreading in a fire.
• Presence of toxic substances during combustion.

Occurrence of short circuits

During short circuits of the conductors, a high temperature is generated, which is transmitted to other cables located nearby, heats them up, and can provoke a fire. As a result, gases are formed that create high blood pressure, the seal of the cable channel is broken. Next, air enriched with oxygen penetrates into the channel, and a fire develops.

Long-term overloads

A large electric current heats the metal conductors and the dielectric insulation layer along with the shell. Begin chemical reactions, destroying the insulating layer, gases are formed that mix with air, creating a fire flame.

Spread of fire

The shell made of plastic and some types of polyethylene can provoke combustion. This creates the possibility of a fire. The greatest danger arises when the cables are located vertically.

According to the spread of combustion, electrical wires are divided into:

• Regular.
• Not conducive to the continuation of combustion in a single gasket: horizontally and vertically.
• Flame-resistant, made from several gaskets: horizontally and vertically.
• Fire resistant.

Release of harmful substances

Records are kept of the cable's response to an external fire. Insulation can release harmful substances simply when heated, without burning. Such cables cannot be used in public places.

Cable requirements

To increase reliability and safe work cables are assessed by:

• Fire resistance.
• Resistance to heat insulation.
• End cutting method.
• Protect from moisture.

Electrical cord

The design of the cord is a product halfway between a cable and an insulated wire. The cord is made according to special technology to create flexibility and long-lasting performance.

The cord is used to create a connection between the power supply and a mobile electrical device. TO household devices equipped with cords include: kettles, irons, lamps, etc.

Marking

To differentiate, electrical wires are marked under the following circumstances:

• At the factory during manufacture.
• During installation.

The marking includes:

• Color marking of insulation.
• Inscriptions on the shell.
• Labels and tags.

Marking allows you to:

• Find out the purpose and design of the cable.
• Perform a property analysis.
• Make an application assessment.

Marking during operation adds information to the available information and is made with inscriptions and tags, which indicate the diagrams and routes for laying cables and conductors between elements. Marking can be supplemented with electronic markers. This makes it possible to identify a cable in a large cluster of cables.

European marking

Wire identification by color

The wire insulation is painted along its entire length with one color, or colored marks are applied. The standard defines the procedure for applying markings based on certain colors.

For green and yellow flowers Only their combination is allowed on the marking of one shell. Separate marking with these colors is prohibited. This color marking serves to identify protected conductors.

Light blue color is used to highlight the middle conductors. Electrical wires of the phases are marked in black, gray and brown.

Identifying wire insulation using letters and numbers

Such marking methods identify the constituent parts of wire and cable structures. But they do not contain a complete list of information about the wires. Such information should be sought in specialized literature.

Each of these categories contains many types of cable and wire products, identified by special markings. Structurally, cables and wires differ in the overall parameters of the current-carrying cores and the material from which they are made, the type of sheath and external protective cover, the design of the armor (if provided) and other criteria that determine the scope of application of the products and the conditions of their operation.

Types of electrical cables and the definition of their brands are individual for each individual product category.

Power cables

This type of cable products is used to solve problems of transporting electricity over short and long distances. The most important physical parameters of power cables are voltage and current load (permissible value of transmitted current).

Here are some brands of power cables and their areas of application:

Signaling cables and wires

IN this category electrical cables and wires includes cable and wire products intended for the construction of fire and/or security alarm systems. Their main task is to transmit electrical signals from analog and digital sensors smoke, movement, temperature, etc.

Cables are also used to supply power to light and sound alarms, direction indicators (for quick evacuation of people during a fire), automatic devices fire extinguishing and other devices. An important difference is their increased resistance to high temperatures, which, in particular, is one of the main requirements when designing fire safety systems.

Common types of electrical cables and their markings: KPSVVng(A), KSVEVng(A), etc.

Signaling and interlocking cables

This type of cable is used to control electrical mechanisms located outdoors. They are most often used for laying along city and federal railway routes to regulate the operation of switches, signaling devices, and traffic lights. They are also used, for example, to control barriers in car parks.

The company "Kable.RF ®" is one of the leaders in the sale of cable products and has warehouses located in almost all regions Russian Federation. By consulting with the company’s specialists, you can purchase the brand you need at competitive prices.

Find out the main types of cables and wires used during installation in a private home or apartment. Careful information about them is required when purchasing, installing, operating and repairing them.

Purpose

Used for transmission and distribution of electric current, operating voltage - 660-1000 V, frequency - 50 Hz.

The number of cores can vary from 1 to 5. Cross-section - from 1.5 to 240 mm2. In domestic conditions, a cable with a cross-section of 1.5-6 mm2 is used; in the construction of a private house, a cable with a cross-section of up to 16 mm2 is used. The cores can be either single- or multi-wire. There are no restrictions - you can also install a cable with a cross-section of 10 mm2 in an apartment.

Power cables

Among the most popular in Lately types of cable products can be called cable VVG and its modifications.

VVG indicates a power cable with insulation TPZh from PVC, shell (cambric) made of PVC, copper core material that does not have external protection.

VVG used over a wide temperature range: from -50 to + 50 “C. Withstands humidity up to 98% at temperatures up to +40 “C. The cable is strong enough to withstand tearing and bending, and is resistant to aggressive chemicals. When installing, remember that each cable or wire has a certain bending radius. This means that for a rotation of 90 °C in the case of VVG The bending radius must be at least 10 diameters of the cable section. In the case of a flat cable or wire, the width of the plane is considered.

The outer shell is usually black, although sometimes white can be found. Does not spread fire. Insulation TPZh marked in various colors: blue, yellow-green, brown, white with blue stripe, red and black. The cable is packaged in coils of 100 and 200 m. Sometimes other sizes are also found.

VVG cable cross-section

Varieties VVG:AVVG- the same characteristics, only instead of a copper core, aluminum is used. Current-carrying conductor, insulation made of PVC-plastic compound, shell made of PVC-plastic.

VVGng - cambric with increased non-flammability

VVGp- the most common type, the cable cross-section is not round, but flat.

VVGz- space between insulation TPZh and cambric filled with strands of PVC or rubber compound.

NYM does not have Russian decryption letter designation. This is a copper insulated power cable TPZH PVC, non-flammable outer shell PVC. Between the layers of insulation there is a filler in the form of coated rubber, which gives the cable increased strength and heat resistance. The cores are multi-wire, always copper.

NYM cable

1 - copper core; 2 - PVC shell; 3 - longitudinal non-flammable sealing; 4- PVC insulation

Number of cores - from 2 to 5, cross-section - from 1.5 to 16 mm2. Designed for carrying out lighting and power networks with a voltage of 660 V. It has high moisture and heat resistance. Can be used for outdoor installation. Operating temperature range - from -40 to +70 “C.

Disadvantage: does not withstand sunlight well, so the cable must be covered. Compared with VVG any type is more durable and convenient to use. However, it only happens round section(inconvenient to install in plaster or concrete) and significantly more expensive VVG. Bending radius - 4 cable cross-section diameters.

Wires

The most popular brands of wires are PBPP (PUNP) And PBPPg (PUGNP). Say the letter combination PBPPg difficult, which is why it is often called PUNP or PUGNP.

PBPP (PUNP) refers to installation, or installation. The wire is flat, with single-wire copper conductors covered with insulation from PVC, the outer shell is also made of PVC.

Number of cores - 2 or 3, cross-section - from 1.5 to 6 mm2. It is used when laying stationary lighting systems, as well as for installing sockets, although it is preferable to use it specifically for lighting. Rated voltage - up to 250 V, frequency - 50 Hz. Operating temperature range - from -15 to +50 °C. The bending radius is at least 10 diameters.

PBPPg (PUGNP) differs from PUNP veins - they are multi-wire. That is why the letter “g” is added to the name of the wire - flexible.

All other characteristics correspond PUNP, only the minimum bend radius is 6. Distinctive property- flexibility, therefore PUGNP laid in places where the wiring makes frequent bends, or for connection to the network household appliances. Wires of these brands are sold in coils of 100 and 200 m. The color is usually white, less often black.

To the variety PUNP refers to wire with aluminum conductors APUNP. It has exactly the same characteristics as PUNP, adjusted for core material. The only difference is APUNP cannot be stranded and therefore flexible.

Note

In general, wire brands PUNP, PUGNP and APUNP have proven themselves to be excellent as household wires. In half the cases the master has to deal with them. However, it should be remembered that these brands of wires are highly specialized, and you should not use them instead of power cables (such as NYM or VVG).

Attention!

Popularity of wires PUNP And PUGNP based primarily on price. However, there is a catch in this. The fact is that recently a discrepancy has been noticed between the declared cross-section of the wire cores and the actual one. After checking, it turned out that the wire marked PUGNP 3x1.5, actually 3 x 1 - that is, the actual cross-section of the core is smaller. The same applies to isolation. When purchasing wires of this brand, it is necessary to measure the cross-section of the conductors and the thickness of the insulation.

400 Hz. The wire is resistant to aggressive chemical environments, non-flammable, and has a wide operating temperature range - from -50 to +70 °C. Moisture resistance - 100% at a temperature of +35 “C. The bending radius during installation is at least 10 diameters of the wire cross-section. Resistant to mechanical damage and vibration.

APPV has the same characteristics as PPV, with the exception of the core material - it is aluminum.

Automatic reclosing- aluminum single-core wire with insulation from PVC. The wire is round, single-wire with a cross-section from 2.5 to 16 mm2 and multi-wire - from 25 to 95 mm2.

The wire is used in almost all types of installation of stationary lighting and power systems. It is laid in voids, pipes, steel and plastic trays. Widely used in the installation of distribution boards. Chemically resistant, operating temperature range - from -50 to +70 °C. Moisture resistance - 100% at a temperature of +35 “C. The bending radius is at least 10 diameters. Resistant to mechanical damage and vibration.

Appearance and characteristics PV 1 coincide with everything Automatic reclosing, except for the core material: instead of aluminum - copper. The core cross-section starts from 0.75 mm2.

In addition, the core becomes stranded not from 25, but from 16 mm2. More flexible than Automatic reclosing.

Wire characteristics PV 3 match the properties Automatic reclosing And PV 1. Scope of application: installation of sections of lighting and power circuits where frequent bending of wires is necessary: ​​in distribution boards, when installing a large number of electrical devices.

It is also used for laying electrical circuits in cars. The bending radius is at least 6 wire diameters.

Note

Wire brands Automatic reclosure, PV 1 and PV 3 have a wide variety of insulation colors, so they are very convenient to use for installation various types distribution boards.

PVS- copper stranded wire with insulation and PVC sheath. The sheath penetrates the space between the conductors, giving the wire a round shape and density.

The core is multi-wire, their total number ranges from 2 to 5, cross-section - from 0.75 to 16 mm2. Rated voltage - up to 380 V, frequency - 50 Hz. Core insulation has color coding, the shell is white.

The wire is used to connect various electrical devices, from household appliances to gardening tools. Due to its flexibility and lightness, it is also used for lighting and even installation of sockets. PVS is a household wire used for making extension cords, cords for any type of equipment and repairing electrical networks. It is non-flammable (does not propagate combustion when laid alone), heat-resistant: temperature range - from -40 to +40 °C (PVS U option) and from -25 to +40 °C. Thanks to its design, it is resistant to bending and mechanical wear. PVS can withstand at least 3000 kinks.

SHVVP- copper or tinned copper flat wire. Core insulation and PVC sheath

The core is multi-wire, with increased flexibility. Number of cores - 2 or 3, cross-section - from 0.5 to 0.75 mm2. Voltage - up to 380 V, frequency - 50 Hz. Used as a cord for connecting lighting fixtures and low-power household appliances, for example, soldering irons, mixers, coffee grinders and electronic devices.

Note

SHVVP- the wire is exclusively for household needs, it is not used for wiring lighting or sockets.

Cables for information transmission

In addition to electricity, cables transmit information signals. Recently, many new types of information conductors have appeared. If 10-15 years ago there were only telephone and antenna cables, now with the development of computer technology there are many more types of information conductors. Most of them are too specialized and are of interest only to highly specialized specialists. For home handyman It is enough to know and be able to use only a few types. We will consider them.

Antenna cables

Today the most commonly used RG-6, RG-59, RG-58 or Russian analogues of the series RK 75.

RG-6- coaxial cable for transmitting high-frequency signals for electronic equipment, television or radio.

Consists of a central copper core with a cross-section of 1 mm2, surrounding polyethylene foam insulation, an aluminum foil screen, an outer conductor of tinned copper braid and a sheath of PVC. Widely used for transmitting cable and satellite television signals. Has many technical characteristics regarding the frequency of the transmitting signal, resistance, shielding, etc. For example, the designation in the name of the cable RK 75 means that the conductor resistance is 75 ohms.

This cable is ideal for transmitting a video signal from an antenna or video camera to a receiver (TV) and distributing the video signal to several sources.

Each conductor is insulated from PVC or propylene. The outer shell is also made of PVC. The cable can be additionally equipped with a waterproof polypropylene sheath. There is a breaking thread in the twisted pair design. With its help, the outer sheath can be easily removed from the cable, opening access to the conductive wires.

RG brand cables come in many varieties and differ from each other in certain characteristics, such as conductor resistance, resistance to temperature and shock loads, signal decay time, type of screen, etc.

Computer cables (twisted pair)

They are used to build computer networks. The cable with which computers connect to the Internet or to each other is just a twisted pair (Fig. 4.44 and 4.45). Consists of one or more pairs of wires intertwined in pairs, which is done for improvement purposes.

Twisted pair with a connector for connecting to a computer, protected by a PVC sheath

Depending on the type of cable, various protection options are possible: UTP, or unprotected, without a common shield for pairs of wires.

Coaxial cable with lug

FTP, or foil, with a screen made of aluminum foil; STP, or secure, with a common shield made of copper mesh, in addition, each twisted pair is surrounded by a separate shield.

Tip RJ-45 for connecting to a computer S/FTP, or foil, shielded with a common foil screen, in addition, each pair is additionally enclosed in a screen. Besides, twisted pairs are divided into categories according to the number of pairs combined into one cable. The most common type used for computer networks is the category CAT5e. It consists of 4 pairs of wires different colors. Data transfer speed - up to 1 Gb/s when using all pairs.

You can see such a cable used as a telephone wire of the category CAT1 or CAT2, that is, consisting of 1 or 2 pairs of wires.

Telephone cables and wires

TPPep: 1 - core; 2- polyethylene insulation; 3 - core; 4 - fastening winding; 5 - waist insulation; 6-screen

Telephone conductors are divided into 2 main types. The first ones are intended for laying several (up to 400) subscriber lines. The second type is used for wiring in a separate apartment or house.

TPPep- the main type of cable for laying a line designed for a large number of subscribers.

The cable consists of two wires twisted into pairs. TPZh from soft copper wire, with a cross section of 0.4 or 0.5 mm2, covered with polyethylene insulation. In some types of cable, pairs are combined into groups of 5 or 10 pairs. The outer shell is also polyethylene or vinyl. The letters “e” and “i” in the name stand for film screen. There are varieties of cable armored with tapes, or filled, in which the space between the sheath and the cores is occupied by a hydrophobic seal.

In short, this is a cable for telephone communication in apartment house, it is intended for installation in almost all conditions: underground, in cable channels or by air.

To conduct a telephone line to an individual subscriber and distribute it indoors, the following two types of telephone wires are used.

TRV - single or double pair telephone distribution wire.

This is a flat wire with a divided base, a copper core, single-wire, with a cross-section of 0.4 or 0.5 mm2. Number of cores - 2 or 4. Insulation from PVC. Designed for conducting telephone lines indoors.

Operates at temperatures from -10 to +40 °C. Humidity should not exceed 80% at a temperature of +30 °C.

TRP- the characteristics coincide with TRV. The only difference is the insulation TRP it is made of polyethylene.

Possessing increased resistance to environmental influences. Such places include baths, ovens and cellars. In general, anywhere where it is too hot, humid or cold and there is also a possibility of mechanical damage. It is clear that PVS or VVG it is impossible to install in such places, not to mention PUNP or SHVVP.

RKGM - power installation single-core wire of increased heat resistance, flexible.

Copper core, multi-wire, cross-section from 0.75 to 120 mm2. Insulation made of silicone rubber, fiberglass shell impregnated with heat-resistant enamel or varnish.

This wire is designed for rated voltage up to 660 V and frequency up to 400 Hz. Vibration resistant high humidity(up to 100% at a temperature of +35 °C), heat-resistant (operating temperature range from 60 to +180 °C). In addition, the wire is protected from harmful effects varnishes, solvents and fungal mold. An ideal conductor for rooms with high temperatures (boiler rooms and furnaces), suitable for electrical installations in baths, saunas, and oven connections.

PNSV - single-core heating wire. TPZh single-wire steel, blued or galvanized steel.

Core cross-section - 1.2; 1.4; 2 and 3 mm2. PVC or polyethylene insulation. Rated voltage up to 380 V, frequency 50 Hz. The wire is heat-resistant: the operating temperature range is from -50 to +80 °C, it is resistant to alkalis and moisture-resistant (tolerates immersion in water). It is used as a heating element: in domestic conditions, heated floors are installed using PNSV.

The runway is a single-core copper wire.

The core is multi-wire, enclosed in polyethylene insulation, the sheath is also made of polyethylene or PVC.

Core cross-section - from 1.2 to 25 mm2. Rated voltage - 380 or 660 V, frequency 50 Hz. The wire is resistant to pressure changes. Operating temperature range - from -40 to +80 °C. Applicable for engines artesian wells immersed in water under high pressure conditions.

LED cable

LED cable is a very interesting option for power cable. Under the transparent outer shell along the power TPGs there are additional wires with LEDs connected in series different color. They are located at a distance of 2 cm from each other and burn with a constant, fairly strong light.

Such a cable performs not only decorative functions, although it can be used to create entire light paintings. In addition to aesthetic purposes, it is very convenient for connecting to portable electrical mechanisms. Most often, LED cables are used to connect stage equipment.

It is useful because if it breaks, you don’t have to look for the damage site: the diodes in this area will stop glowing. In addition to power conductors, there are computer luminous cables.

With the help of such conductors you can create very interesting design solutions.

Electroluminescent cable

In addition to LED cables, there are electroluminescent cables. They glow evenly along their entire length. Using such cables you can create luminous inscriptions and even entire paintings.

This great alternative flexible neon tubes, from which such designer jewelry. In addition, electroluminescent cable is cheaper than neon tubes and is not limited in length.

Used for conducting lines indoors and in telephone sets. Highly flexible wire.

PRPPM- a flat wire with a dividing base and single-wire copper cores with insulation and a polyethylene sheath. There is a modification PRPVM, the shell of which is made of PVC.

Special types of cables and wires

For installation electrical systems In places where the conditions are very different from normal, special cables are used.

Compared with TRV the wire is more resistant to the external environment and can be laid outside buildings.

SHTLP- telephone flat cord with copper stranded conductors.

The core insulation is made of polyethylene. Isolated TPZh covered with a shell of PVC. Number of cores - 2 or 4, cross-section - from 0.08 to 0.12 mm2.

The existing variety of cables and wires for the most part amounts to three-digit numbers. Therefore, it is not possible to describe the entire range in one article.

Meanwhile, it is not at all necessary to describe all types of cables and wires and their purpose. It is enough to have an idea of ​​​​labeling standards and be able to extract the necessary information from the characteristics in order to select the appropriate option from the variety of cable products according to its purpose.

Let's consider the main points on how you can learn to distinguish electrical wires among an array of such products, and also provide descriptions of the most popular wires and cables.

The design of the cable or electrical wires determines the technical and operational characteristics of the product. Actually, the design of cable or wire products is, in most design variations, a fairly simple technological approach.

Classic version:

1. Cable insulation.
2. Core insulation.
3. Metal core – solid/bundled.

A metal core is the base of a cable/wire through which electric current flows. Main characteristics, V in this case, – throughput, determined by the transverse . This parameter is influenced by the structure - solid or bunched.

Such a property as flexibility also depends on the structure. In terms of the degree of “softness” of bending, stranded (bundled) conductors are characterized by better properties than single-core wires.

The structural design of the current-carrying part is traditionally represented by “beam” or “solid” (monolithic). This has implications, for example, in relation to flexibility properties. The picture shows stranded/bundled wire type

The cores of cables and wires in electrical practice, as a rule, have cylindrical shape. At the same time, it is rare, but there are several modified shapes: square, oval.

The main materials for the manufacture of conductive metal cores are copper and aluminum. However, electrical practice does not exclude conductors whose structure contains steel cores, for example, a “field” wire.

While a single electrical wire is traditionally built on a single conductor, a cable is a product where several such conductors are concentrated.

Wire and cable insulating component

An integral part of cable and wire products is the insulation of the metal current-carrying base. The purpose of insulation is quite clear - to ensure an isolated state for each current-carrying core, preventing the effect of a short circuit.

Type #2 – modification of PBPPg

In fact, the product is presented in the same design as described for the PPPP, with the exception of one nuance, which is indicated by the letter “g” of the standard marking.

This nuance lies in the more pronounced properties of flexibility. In turn, improved flexibility properties are provided by the core structure of this type of wire, which is “bundled” and not solid.

A modified version in a two-wire version, which uses the structure of a “bundle” current-carrying part. This option is also popular in households

Type #3 – aluminum conductor APUNP

The presence of an aluminum conductor under the insulation is indicated directly by the product marking - the first symbol “A”. This product is produced in the core cross-section range of 2.5-6.0 mm 2.

Type #6 – APV aluminum with PVC insulation

It is produced in two configurations of cores - single-cast or bundled (multi-core).

At the same time, the single version is represented by products where the cross-section range is 2.5-16 mm 2, and the multi-core version is available in the range 25-95 mm 2.

A variation of “bundled” aluminum is another type of the whole variety of electrical wires, which is used quite often in the practice of constructing electrical lines

This is one of those modifications that can be used in conditions high humidity. A wide temperature range is supported – from -50°С to +70°С.

Type #7 – modification PV1 – PV5

In fact, it is an analogue of automatic reclosure, but is produced exclusively with copper conductors. The difference between indexes 1 and 5 is that the first option is a product with a solid core, and the second option is, accordingly, multi-core.

We can say that there is an automatic reclosure design, but the conductors are made exclusively of copper. In all other respects, the difference is practically unnoticeable. A specific type used for specific circuit designs

This variety is often used when assembling control cabinet circuits. Comes with .

Type #8 – PVC patch cord with PVC insulation

A type of conductor representing the configuration of an electrical cord. Available with a number of cores 2-5 in the cross-section range of 0.75 - 16 mm. The structure of the cores is multi-wire (bundled).

A constructive version of the “cord” for household electrics. Indeed, this “cord” is often used to connect relatively powerful household appliances. Provides a convenient connection option due to color separation

Designed for operation in networks with voltages up to 380 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.

A special feature of the PVS design is a high degree of flexibility. However, the temperature regime is somewhat limited - from -25°C to +40°C.

Type #9 – flat cord SHVVP in PVC sheath

Another variety in a “corded” design. A variation in the number of wires united by a PVC sheath is supported, in the amount of two or three.

A flat two-wire “cord” is a pair of conductors enclosed in a polyvinyl chloride sheath. There is also a configuration with three conductors and a multi-core structure of the current-carrying part

The main application is the domestic sphere, outdoor wiring. Operating voltage up to 380 V, core structure - bundle, maximum cross-section 0.75 mm 2.

Types of electrical cables

If we consider exclusively cables for power electrical diagrams, here the main type are the following power cables:

• VBBShv.

Of course, this is not a complete list of all existing cable products. However, using the technical characteristics as an example, you can form a general idea of ​​the electrical cable.

Execution under the VVG brand

Widely used, popular and reliable brand. The VVG cable is designed to transmit current with a voltage of 600 - 1000 volts (maximum 3000 V).

The product is manufactured in two modifications, with current-carrying conductors of a solid structure or a bundle structure.

According to the product specification, the range of core sections is 1.5 - 50 mm. PVC insulation allows the cable to be used at temperatures of -40…+50°C.

There are several modifications of this type of cable products:

• VVGng

The modifications are distinguished by a slightly different design of insulation, the use of aluminum conductors instead of copper conductors, and the shape of the cable.

Power flexible cable type KG

The design of another popular cable, characterized by a high degree of flexibility due to the use of a bundle structure of current-carrying conductors.

Design of the KG brand flexible power cable for four working current-carrying conductors. The product has high quality insulation and demonstrates good technical characteristics

The design of this type provides for the presence of up to six current-carrying wires inside the shell. Operating temperature range -60…+50°С. Mainly, the KG variety is used to connect power equipment.

Armored cable VBBShv

An example of the design of special cable products in the form of a product under the VBBShV brand. The conductive elements can be bundled or solid conductors. In the first case, the range of sections is 50-240 mm 2, in the second 16-50 mm 2.

The structure of the power cable for high voltage and significant power. This is one of those cable product options, the use of which guarantees the reliability of the circuit

There are several modifications of this type:

• VBBShvng– non-combustible insulation;
• VBBShvng-LS– does not emit harmful substances when burning;
• AVBbShv– presence of aluminum conductors.

Alphanumeric marking of the cable product: 1) letter 1 – core metal; 2) letter 2 – purpose; 3) letter 3 – insulation; 4) letter 4 – features; 5) number 1 – number of cores; 6) number 2 – section; 7) number 3 – voltage (nominal) (+)

Features of the type of core material – Letter 1: "A"– aluminum core. In any other case, the vein was copper.

As for the purpose (Literature 2), the decoding here is as follows:

• "M"– for installation;
• "P(U)","MG"– flexible for installation;
• "SH"– installation; "TO"- for control.

The designation of insulation (Liter 3) and its interpretation is as follows:

• "В(ВР)"– PVC;
• "D"– double winding;
• "N (NR)"– non-flammable rubber;
• "P"– polyethylene;
• "R"- rubber;
• "WITH"- fiberglass;
• "TO"– nylon;
• "SH"– silk polyamide;
• "E"– shielded.

The features indicated by Letter 4 have their own interpretation:

• "B"– armored;
• "G"– flexible;
• "TO"– wire braid;
• "ABOUT"– the braid is different;
• "T"– for pipe laying.

The classification also provides for the use of lowercase letters and Latin letters:

• "ng"– non-flammable,
• "z"– filled,
• "LS"- without chemicals combustion emissions,
• "HF"– no smoke when burning.

Markings are usually applied directly to outer shell, and along the entire length of the product at equal intervals.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The video below demonstrates a “beginner electrician” lesson.

Quite useful video material is shown, which is recommended for viewing as an acquisition of general knowledge on wires and cables:

Given the existence of a wide range of wire and cable products, a potential electrician has many options for solving any problems in the electrical field.

However, even with such diversity, it is quite difficult to choose the right product for specific purposes if you do not have the appropriate knowledge. Let's hope this article will help you make the right choice.

Do you have anything to add, or do you have questions about choosing electrical cables and wires? You can leave comments on the publication, participate in discussions and share your own experience of using cable products. The contact form is located in the lower block.

Content:

Electricity is very convenient for its consumers, including the fact that it is easily transmitted through wires, cords and cables. They form the basis of the electrical grids on which modern civilization rests. For this reason, the efficiency of electrical conductors is great value with far-reaching consequences. Their failure leads to the disconnection of the electrical circuit with this emergency element for at least tens of minutes. Disruptions in the power supply can be fraught with significant losses throughout the entire infrastructure.

Main design features of wires

Like any product, the wire has a certain design. In electrical engineering, conductors and insulators are necessaryly combined. As a result, the wires can be either without insulation (bare) or with an insulating coating.

The conductor part is called the “core”. Essentially, it is one or more wires made of high-quality metal with minimal resistance.

The most common are copper and aluminum conductors. These metals are the most accessible for mass use. However the best veins are made from silver. For this reason, the copper core is usually coated with a layer of silver to provide minimum resistance. High cost limits its use for the manufacture of conductor products. Copper and aluminum are soft and ductile materials.

If a wire with copper or aluminum conductors experiences a mechanical tensile load, it elongates relatively quickly. To prevent this from happening, a steel core is introduced into its composition. In some cases, the wire has to be made entirely of steel cores. Typically these are particularly long spans of power lines. The fact that wires are used for this is beyond doubt. But what then is a cord or cable?

Cords and cables

• A cord is a piece of flexible multi-core insulated wire that is used for detachable connection of electricity consumers.

During operation, the cord is subject to repeated bending. They are known to lead to cracks and breakage when repeated in the same place. Therefore, the properties of the insulation and the thickness of the wires determine the service life of the cord. The woven structure best counteracts the destructive effects of bending. It, like the multi-core conductive part of the wire, consists of thin threads. But not from a conductor, but from an insulator - fiberglass, cotton or lavsan.

The insulating coating of the cord is selected according to the characteristics of the electrical appliance. For example, any electric iron is connected to the mains only with a cord whose outer layer is made of woven cotton or fiberglass. Polymer materials may melt if accidentally in contact with a heated iron. The consequence of this is likely to be a short circuit or electric shock.

• A cable is a structure with at least two conductive cores and several layers of insulation, each of which performs its own function. For certain purposes, one or more layers of insulation are replaced by a metal layer, for example, for strength.

In some cases, in a cable with two conductors, only one of them is used to transmit the load current. For example, in coaxial cable used on high frequencies, the outer core can be used as a shield.

The role of the insulating layer

The insulation used in wires, cords and cables performs a protective function. It safely separates current-carrying conductors from each other and the person coming into contact with these products. But the insulation properties depend on operating conditions. Their violation can lead to damage to the insulating layer. The consequence of this, sooner or later, will be either a short circuit or an electric shock. Short circuit leads to the appearance of a zone high temperature.

If the electrical circuit does not shut down at the location of the fault, this zone can move along the core, melting it and destroying the insulation. The most critical in terms of reliability are the connection points of the cores in the wire sections. These places are always reliably isolated in one way or another. The most convenient and common of them is the use of insulating tape.

More reliable, but at the same time technically the hard way wire insulation is an insulating tube with thermal shrinkage (cambric). It must match the diameter of the wires being connected. You also need a fairly efficient heat source for its thermal deformation. This source should not be used in strong winds or in areas with a high risk of explosion. But if everything is done properly, the tube fits tightly and securely to the wires. Better than duct tape.

Variety of wires

There are many different wires for various purposes. To systematize them, certain markings are used. That is, each wire corresponds to one brand or another. The manufacturer supplies lengths of wire, cable or cord that are either rolled into a coil or wound onto a reel. In this case, a label indicating the brand and other necessary data is placed.

The information given on the label is necessary to identify the product. Its preliminary selection is made using special reference books and other sources. They contain tables listing information for comparison technical capabilities wires with operating conditions for a specific user.

• When choosing a wire, you must know the limits of voltage and current changes in the designed electrical network or electrical circuit. If the selected wire does not meet these limits, the result will be either an unjustified increase in the cost of the wire or an unacceptable reliability of the final result.

Marking

The wire grade is formed as an alphanumeric designation. First, the letters indicate the purpose of the wire (W - cord):

Then the numbers corresponding to the number of cores and their cross-section are indicated. It is the last in the designation and is indicated in square millimeters. In general, the above can be shown in the image:

For example, Rubber 2-core wire with a core diameter of 1.5 sq. mm:

Three main groups of wires

Wires are used both indoors and outdoors. Bare wires are used exclusively outdoors, mainly for power lines. Insulated wires are the most widely used. Most of all different brands of wires in conditional groups called as

• installation (i.e. intended for open and hidden electrical wiring);

• installation (i.e. for installation of electrical equipment);

• winding (for making windings electric machines and devices with electromagnetic coils).

Installation

Installation wires are produced in a wide range of cross-sectional sizes of insulated cores, which can be from one to four. Maximum cross section reaches 500 sq. mm, and the minimum starts from 0.5 sq. mm. The material is both copper and aluminum. The number of wires is from one to several dozen. The most widely used wires are those with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and PE (polyethylene) insulation. The reason for this is the cheapness of such insulation. But there are brands of installation wires coated with special varnishes, as well as with silk and rubber insulation.

Assembly

It is typical for installation wires that their cores are made only of copper. The installation process involves big number wire bends. Aluminum conductors do not tolerate this well due to their fragility, which manifests itself during repeated bending. But another feature of aluminum cores is that their soldering is complex and accessible mainly to specialists. And during installation, the need to perform this procedure cannot be completely eliminated. The insulating coating of some brands of installation wires, due to their adaptation for soldering, is made of two layers. The layer in contact with the core is made of thread that is wrapped around the core. The thread can be fiberglass, nylon or lavsan. It protects the outer insulating layer of PVC or PE from melting during soldering. The cross-section of the wires in the cores can be in the range of 0.05–6 square meters. mm.

• Most brands of installation wire begin with the letter M.

Winding

Winding wires are mainly single-wire and are used for the manufacture of various electromagnetic and resistive winding elements. Since in electromagnetic devices it's important to get shortest distance between turns, the core is covered with special varnish insulation minimum thickness. The exception is licensees. These wires are used to make high frequency coils. Therefore, the licenced wire is stranded and in multilayer insulation. At the same time, the core wires are the thinnest in comparison with other brands of wires.

In addition to coils wound with copper and aluminum wire, resistors are produced whose wire is made of other metals. They are made from nichrome, constantan and manganin and are used in both electrical circuits and electric heaters.

• Most brands of winding wire begin with the letter P.

Conclusion

The suitability for use of any piece of wire is checked with a tester (multimeter) and by examining the condition of the insulating layer. The device, in resistance measurement mode, checks for the absence of a wire break, which is not visible under the insulation layer. The insulation must not be damaged by cuts or punctures. There should be no scratches on the varnish layer.

Right choice wires are one of the main conditions efficient work electrical circuits and networks.

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