Let's take a closer look at what products - wires and cables - are usually used when installing electrical wiring indoors, in a private house or apartment.
Power cables
One of the most popular types of cables in recent years is a cord with the VVG marking. This abbreviation marks a power one with a copper conductive core (TPZH). Each TPG has PVC insulation. In addition, it has an additional PVC sheath (cambric). There is no additional protective coating.
It is used for networks of 600 and 1000 volts, 50 Hz. It can have from 1 to 5 cores. For domestic needs (in an apartment), it is usually used with a cross-section of conductors from 1.5 to 6 mm2. In a private household, a wire with conductors up to 16 mm2 can be used. Although there are no restrictions from above. In the apartment, you can also lay a cord with a cross section of more than 10 mm2. It is produced with a cross-section of TPG from 1.5 to 240 mm2. The conductors can be multi-wire or single-wire.
The temperature limits of VVG application are wide enough. It works in the range of -50 / + 50 ° C. At 40 ° C, humidity can reach 98%. The cable has good bending and breaking strength. Resistant to aggressive chemical environments. Its outer shell is usually made black. Although there are also white cables. It does not conduct combustion. Each TPG is marked with its own color. Colors can be: red, black, blue, brown, yellow-green and white with a blue stripe. Do not forget that there is a permissible bend radius for each cable. For VVG modification, the radius is 10 section diameters. If the wire is made in the form of a strip, the width of the plane is taken as the section. Industrial packaging - coils with a length of 100 and 200 m, although other lengths can also be found.
VVG cable modifications:
AVVG. Has the same technical characteristics as the original VVG; core material - aluminum.
VVGng - using material with increased incombustibility
VVGp - flat version of VVG. The most common modification.
VVGz - modification of the cable with filling the inner space with a rubber compound or PVC bundles.
This is the European analogue of VVG. Abbreviation from the German name (N - standardized cable, Normenleitung; Y - PVC insulation; M - with a protective sheath, Mantelleitung).
Copper, multi-wire or single-wire TPZh are used in the cable. It can have from 2 to 5 cores. The cross section of the conductors is from 1.5 to 16 mm2. Each core is PVC insulated. The outer shell is made of PVC, non-flammable and does not conduct combustion. Inside the cable, between the cores, a coated rubber filler is added. Has increased heat resistance and strength. It is intended for power supply and installation of lighting, in networks with voltages up to 1000 V. It is highly resistant to temperature extremes, high humidity and mechanical damage. The bending radius is 4 sections. It can be used both indoors and outdoors, in the open air. Can be used in a wide range, -40 / +70 ° C. The main disadvantage is the destruction of the shell in direct sunlight. Therefore, with an external network, He must be covered. More resistant and more convenient when laying, compared to VVG. The inconvenience can be attributed to the fact that the cable is only round in cross-section, which is not always convenient during installation. Its cost is also higher than that of VVG.
The name stands for quite simply - Flexible Cable. Designed for voltages up to 660 V, up to 400 Hz. Or direct current, voltage up to 1000 V.
The number of cores in the cable is from 1 to 6. The cores of increased flexibility, copper. Rubber is used to isolate TPG. The outer cable insulation is also rubber. Suitable for use in the temperature range -60 / +50 ° C. Most often used to connect portable units -
- heat guns,
- generators,
- welders.
Also available in the GKng modification - non-combustible.
GK works great outdoors, in almost all weather conditions. Most often used as a power cable during construction work. Sometimes it is even used as indoor lighting wiring, due to its ease of installation and reliability.
VBBShv - power, armored, with copper conductors.
The number of cores in VBShShv can be from 1 to 5. VBBShv cores are made both single and multiwire. The cross section of the TPG is from 1.5 to 240 mm2. PVC is used to insulate the TPG, as well as the space between the cores, and as an outer sheath.
A special feature of the cable is armor. It is wound over the cambric, in two ribbons, with overlapping layers. There is a protective PVC hose on top of the armor. Moreover, in the VBBShvng modification, a material with reduced flammability is used. It is designed to power installations at rated voltages of 660 and 1000 V. Single-core modifications are used for direct current transmission. Thanks to the armor, this type has increased mechanical characteristics. Operating temperature range -50 / +50 ° C.
Moisture resistant, can withstand humidity up to 98% at 35 ° C. It can be buried in the ground, in cable ducts or in pipes. When laying in open areas, protection from sunlight is required. It is used to power stationary installations, or stand-alone objects. Ideal for underground wiring to a detached building. The bending radius is at least 10 cable cross-sections.
Cable modifications:
- AVBBShv - with aluminum conductors;
- VBBShvng - non-flammable;
- VBBShng-LS - non-flammable, with reduced gas and smoke emission when heated.
Electric wires for power transmission
Among the electrical installation networks, the most popular brands are PBPP and PBPPg. Sometimes they are also called PUNP and PUGNP. Simply because it’s easier to pronounce. They belong to the category of assembly, or installation.
PBPP (PUNP) - flat wire... The number of current-carrying conductors in the network is 2 or 3. Copper conductors, single-wire. TPG insulation is made of PVC. The outer shell is made of the same material, mostly white, less often black. The cross section of the TPG is from 1.5 to 6 mm2. It is used mainly for the installation of stationary lighting systems, or (less often) for powering outlets. It is used for voltages up to 250 V, 50 Hz. Temperature limits -15 / +50 ° C. Bending radius - from 10 sections of TPG.
PBPPg (PUGNP), flexible. This is indicated by the letter "g" in the title. Differs in the structure of conductive veins. It uses stranded conductors, which gives the wire flexibility. The minimum bending radius for PUNGP is 6 sections. All other characteristics are similar to PUNP. Insulation color is predominantly white, sometimes black. It is used in places of frequent bends in the power line, as well as for connecting outlets. Sometimes used to connect to a network of devices. A network of these brands is produced in bays, 100 or 200 m long.
APUNP- modification with aluminum conductors. It has characteristics similar to copper parts. However, the core is single-wire, and its flexibility is much less.
Typically, wires of this brand are used in a household network, up to 250 V. More than half of the entire network is usually carried out by power lines of these brands. However, although they are great for internal networking, wires should not be used in place of power cables.
Recently, cases of incorrect marking of cords of this series have become more frequent. This is largely determined by the popularity of these brands. For example, when checking, the actual cross-section of the measured cores was less than the declared one. It is recommended to check the quality of the insulation and the cross-section of the conductors upon purchase.
PPV - copper, with PVC insulation:
PPV - flat with a dividing jumper. Single-wire cores, cross-section 0.75-6.0 mm2. It can be used for a stationary lighting network, and power lines for voltages up to 450 V, at a frequency of up to 400 Hz. It is non-flammable, with increased resistance to aggressive environments. Resistant to vibration and mechanical damage. Operating temperature level -50 / + 70 ° C. Moisture resistant. Withstands 100% humidity at +35 ° C.
APPV is similar in characteristics to PPV. Core material - aluminum:
APV is the most common single-core wire. Core insulation - PVC. It has a circular cross-section. The core can be single-wire (cross-section from 2.5 to 16 mm2) or multi-wire (from 25 to 95 mm2).
It is used everywhere, in all types of power or lighting networks. Can be laid:
- in pipes,
- technological voids,
- steel or plastic trays.
Possesses increased mechanical strength, vibration resistant. Voltage rated up to 450 V, at a frequency of up to 400 Hz. PVC insulation is resistant to aggressive chemical environments, not flammable. Used at temperatures -50 / + 70 ° C. Moisture resistance at + 35 ° C - 100% humidity.
PV 1. It has a single-wire copper conductor with a cross-section of 0.75 to 16 mm2; or multi-wire with a cross section of 16-95 mm2. In addition, it has better flexibility than a similar reclosure cross-section.
PV 3. The characteristics are similar to those of PV 1 or AR. It has great flexibility, therefore it is recommended for use in areas of power lines or lighting networks, with frequent bends. For example, it is often used in switchboards or electrical circuits of cars. Bending radius - 6 sections (diameters). Since the wires PV1, PV3 and APV can have a very different color of insulation, they are convenient to use when installing switchboards.
PVA. This is a multi-strand cord. Copper conductor, covered with PVC insulation. The sheath is made of PVC, cast, filling the gaps between the veins. As a result, it is dense, round in shape. The core is multi-wire, the number of cores in the cable is from 2 to 5. The cross-section of the cable cores is from 0.75 to 16 mm2. Available for voltages up to 380 V, 50 Hz. The sheath is usually white, the core insulation is colored. Due to its exceptional flexibility and lightness, it can be used for mounting lighting or connecting outlets.
PVA is the most common household wire. Used to connect:
- electrical devices,
- household appliances,
- as an extension cord for network repair.
Resistant to mechanical stress - able to withstand up to 3000 bends. Does not burn and does not spread combustion. Operates in the temperature range -40 / +40 ° C (in the PVA U version) or -25 / +40 ° C (in the standard version).
Ball screw- 2 or 3 veins, flat in cross section. Copper or copper-tinned core, cross-section 0.5-0.75 mm2, multi-wire. Designed to work with voltages up to 380 V, 50 Hz. It has increased flexibility. It is used as an extension cord for connecting low-power household appliances (coffee grinder, mixer). It is not recommended to use this type of power line for the network, stationary sockets or lighting devices.
Information
Cables and wires are currently used not only for the transmission of electrical energy. They are also used to convey information. The number of such conductors has recently increased significantly. The situation has begun to change especially rapidly over the past fifteen years. In addition to cables for telephones and antennas, there is much more variety of signal cables. But, for use in everyday life, it is enough to know several types. The rest are often of interest only to narrow specialists in the field of information transmission. Let's take a look at the main types and types of such cables.
Antenna
Today, RG-58, RG-59 and RG-6 cables are most often used in everyday life. Or their domestic counterparts, for example, RK 75.
RG-6 - coaxial signal designed to transmit high frequency signals. It is used for the transmission of television and radio signals, and in HF technology.
Structurally, the cable is made in the form of a cylinder, inside which there is a copper conductor with a cross section of 1 mm2, insulated with foamed polyethylene. Next comes an aluminum foil shield, on top of which there is an outer conductor, which is a copper braid. A PVC sheath is put on over the braid. It is most often used to transmit a television signal, in cable, terrestrial or satellite television. Coaxial cables differ in many characteristics, including ohmic resistance, degree of shielding, frequency response, and much more. The name of the most popular domestic cable RK (RK 75) means that the ohmic resistance is 75 Ohm.
Radio technicians understand what this means. And the user just needs to know that it is this resistance that is ideal for transmitting a signal to a TV (tuner, other receiver) from an antenna or a video camera. Also, using this cable, you can transmit and branch the signal to multiple receivers.
RG cables, of which there are a great many, have a similar structure. And they differ in technical characteristics, including signal attenuation, frequency characteristics, resistance to mechanical stress, temperatures, resistance, types of screens, and so on.
Twisted pair of wires. Used in computer networks for signal transmission
The Internet is most likely delivered to your home by just such a twisted pair. With these wires, computers communicate with each other or connect to the Internet.
Lug type RJ-45, to connect to the network
Twisted pair consists of several pairs of wires, twisted in pairs, which gave it its name. They are intertwined in order to improve the quality of signal transmission. Each core is insulated with PVC coating, the outer sheath is made of PVC or propylene. Some cable modifications have an additional moisture-proof polypropylene sheath. In addition, a breaking thread is inserted inside the outer shell for more convenient removal of the outer shell during installation. Various protection options are implemented in the following modifications:
UTP, without general shielding of conductors, unprotected;
FTP, conductors are shielded with aluminum foil (foil-clad);
STP, shielded with copper mesh (shielded). In addition, a separate screen surrounds each pair;
S / FTP, shielded with aluminum foil, with additional shielding of each pair with its own shield.
The different models are also categorized by the number of wire pairs. The most common category for networks is CAT5e. It has four pairs of conductors, each core is marked with its own color. The data transfer rate over twisted pair, when using all pairs - up to 1 Gb / s. Sometimes this type of cable is used as a telephone cable. In this case, one or two pairs of wires are used, as in CAT1 or CAT2.
Cables and wires for telephone lines
There are two main types of telephone wires. Cords for distributing telephone lines to apartments, and common, for laying many (up to 400) lines.
The most common type of cable for laying telephone lines is TPPep. It is designed for a large number of lines.
TPPep cable structure:
- insulation (polyethylene);
- cable core;
- fastening winding;
- waist insulation;
- outdoor screen.
The cable structurally consists of wires twisted into pairs. The conductors of the cable are copper, made of soft wire, the conductors have a cross section of 0.4-0.5 mm2. Each core is covered with polyethylene insulation. Usually pairs are grouped together, each containing 5 or 10 pairs. The outer sheath of the cable is made of PVC or polyethylene. If the names contain the letters "p" or "e", then the cable has a shield. There are modifications of the armored cable (twisted tapes). On some models, the space between the conductors is filled with a water-repellent seal. This type of cable is designed to bring telephone communications to multi-storey buildings. It can be laid in almost any conditions: in cable ducts, underground, overhead wiring.
To enter a telephone line into a separate apartment, the following power lines are used:
TRV - telephone distribution (noodles). Can be with one or two pairs of conductors.
It has single-wire copper conductors with a cross section of 0.4-0.5 mm2. Has a split base. The number of cores is one or two pairs. PVC insulated. Designed for indoor telephone switching. Temperature conditions -10 / +40 ° C. The humidity level at +30 ° C should not be higher than 80%.
TRP has conductive characteristics similar to the expansion valve. The difference is in insulation - it is made of polyethylene at the TRP.
Thanks to this, the TRP can be installed outdoors, as it is more resistant to external natural influences.
SHTLP- flat telephone cord. Has copper stranded conductors. PVC is used as external insulation. In addition, each core has its own polyethylene sheath. It can have 2 or 4 cores, with a cross section of 0.08-0.12 mm2. Shur has increased flexibility. It can be used for telephone wiring in rooms, and in the telephones themselves.
Rppm- flat wire with a split base. It has two single-wire conductors with a cross section of 0.9-1.2 mm2. Each core is enclosed in polyethylene insulation and sheath. In some modifications, the casing is made of PVC.
Resistant to environmental conditions, temperature limits -60 / +60 ° C. It can be used when laying lines outside buildings, in the ground, along walls and on overhead supports.
Special types of wires and cables
If the operating conditions of the electrical network differ from standard ones, then it is necessary to use specialized wires and cables. They must have increased resistance to aggressive external environment. In housing construction, these are stoves, cellars, baths. That is, in conditions of increased heat, cold or humidity. And also where there is a high risk of mechanical damage. It is not recommended to install standard conductors in such places.
RCGM- assembly, power, flexible, high temperature resistance. Lived in the cable alone, multi-wire, copper. Section 0.75-120 mm2. Insulation made of silicone rubber. Fiberglass outer sheath, impregnated with varnish or heat-resistant enamel.
This wire is used in power networks with a voltage rating of up to 660 V, up to 400 Hz. Differs in increased heat resistance, -60 / +180 ° C. Resistant to mechanical stress and vibration. Unaffected by mold, solvents and varnishes. Can be used in saunas, baths, when connecting ovens. And also in places with high temperatures, for example, boiler rooms.
PNSV- single core heating. The core is steel, single-wire. It is carried out blued or galvanized. Available with a cross section from 1.2 to 3 mm2. PVC or polyethylene is used as insulation.
It is used at voltages up to 380 V, 50 Hz. Heat-resistant, moisture-resistant, immersion-resistant, alkali-resistant. Temperature range -50 / +80 ° C. It is used in the underfloor heating system as a heating element.
Runway- single-core copper. The core is multi-wire, copper, with a cross section of 1.2-25 mm2. Designed to work in networks with a voltage of 380 or 660 V.
Temperature range -40 / +80 ° C. Resistant to pressure drops, moisture resistant. It is used to power the engines of artesian wells at great depths.
LED cable. New and interesting version of the power cable. Additional wires with multi-colored LEDs are placed along the power conductor under the transparent sheath. The distance between the LEDs is 2 cm. The light is strong enough, constant.
Used to indicate the connection of portable electrical equipment. If the cable is damaged, the diodes in the specified area stop glowing. It can be used for decorative purposes or for stage technology. It can be used in advertising, creating pictures and lettering. Manufactured by the Duralight company. Computer luminous cables are also available. The structure is similar to the power ones. They can be used for decorative purposes, and even as lighting elements.
Electroluminescent cables, unlike LED, emit light evenly along the entire length. These cables are mainly used in industrial design, as a replacement for glowing neon tubes. Allows you to create inscriptions and pictures. Unlike neon tubes, they have no length limit and a smaller bend radius. In addition, the price is much cheaper than the latter.
For permanent installation of internal wiring, it is recommended to use only single-wire copper power lines and cables in multi-colored insulation. Use of aluminum cords and cables for internal wiring.
- For connection to the floor panel on the site, the model NYM-5x6.0 (10.0) or NYM-3x6.0 (10.0) is recommended (NYM is read in German "num").
- For an underground branch, armored VBbShv 4x6.0 (10.0) or VBbShv 5x6.0 (10.0) are recommended.
Small-section stranded wires are used where frequent bending is required (power cords, carrying cords), and are not recommended for permanent installation. Moreover, they are more expensive than single-wire and require the obligatory use of expensive tubular lugs during installation. However, with a large cross-section of conductors (> 2.5 mm 2), it is very difficult to use single-wire and cables due to their high mechanical rigidity, therefore, in such cases, stranded wires and cables are used.
The cross-section of conductors for wiring is determined by the amount of current flowing through them, which means that it must be calculated and indicated in the project. In everyday life, almost everything comes down to several recommended types of wires and cables, the cross-sections of which depend on the place of application and do not differ in variety. And when using conductors of standard cross-sections for each specific place of application, as a rule, a good current margin is obtained, especially for the thinnest cords. But the calculation still needs to be done, at least in order to make sure that this current margin is available. When calculating the cross-section, choose the nearest higher value.
For example, you have obtained the required cross-section of the conductors of the supply cable for air connection to the support 18.5 mm 2, therefore, you need to choose with a cross-section of 25.0 mm 2. But let's return to the recommendations.
For connection to the floor panel on the site, NYM-5x6.0 (10.0) or NYM-3x6.0 (10.0) is recommended (NYM is read in German "nyum").
To connect the main panel in an apartment / cottage and room or floor panels, NYM-5x4.0 (6.0) or NYM-3x6.0 (10.0) is recommended.
For connection of individual powerful consumers, NYM-5x4.0 (6.0) or NYM-3x4.0 (6.0) is recommended.
As a rule, it is more convenient to use flat VVGng for internal wiring. PUNP is only flat.
Pay attention to the correct color of the insulation of the conductors of the electrical cords and cables you have chosen. When buying on the market, it will be useful to measure the diameter of the core of a single-wire cable or wire with a caliper. The value obtained should correspond to the diameter of the conductor on the label. The difference in the true diameter from the declared one by more than one tenth of a millimeter downward is completely unacceptable. This is especially true for VVG cables and PUNP wires.
Cabling and wiring products have firmly entered human life, as they perform many functions: from the transportation of electricity to the transmission of various signals. Without wires and cables, it is impossible to imagine the normal functioning of industrial enterprises, the operation of household appliances and lighting equipment, the transmission of telephone signals, the operability of the Internet, and so on.
What are the types of cables and wires, by what criteria are they classified? Every electrician, engineer or home craftsman should know the answers to these questions when performing electrical work and repair manipulations.
Introductory information
Before studying the classification of cable products, it is necessary to consider the differences between wires and cables.
A cable is a product consisting of several (or one) conductive strands interwoven with each other in their own insulation, enclosed in one or more common protective sheaths.
Also, bonded products can have in their design a special shell with increased protective properties, which is called armor. Cables with such a protective layer are called armored, and products without such insulation are called bare.
A wire is called a product that consists of one without insulation or of one or several veins (wires) with insulation, which are enclosed in a lightweight protective sheath not made of metallic material. These cable connections are not designed to be installed underwater or on the ground.
Cord - a variation of a wire, which consists of several flexible or super-flexible veins with a cross section of up to 1.3-1.5 mm2, stacked on top of each other in parallel or intertwined in a specific way. On top of the conductive elements of the cord, a special protective cover and a sheath made of non-metallic material are usually applied.
Important! The main difference between the above concepts is their technical properties and design.
The cable has increased carrying capacities and a reinforced complex structure, respectively, it can be used to transmit, for example, high in strength and voltage current over long distances and in aggressive conditions. And the wire and cord have a simplified lightweight design and are designed to connect elements of a conductive network or power household appliances.
All such electrical products differ from each other in the following ways:
- the material from which the protective and insulating-protective layer (s) is made;
- characteristics of the shielding element installed in the structure;
- technical parameters, which are expressed in physical quantities;
- material of manufacture and the number of conductive cores;
- conductivity;
- the total cross-section of the cable product, the shape of the cross-section and the diameter of the conductor cores, and others.
It is these features that formed the basis for the classification of products by field of application.
Classification of cables by application
Any cabling and wiring products are divided into types based on their purpose.
Depending on the field of application, the following types of cables are distinguished:
- Power cable products;
- Communication cables;
- Control electrical cables;
- Control cable;
- RF cable products;
- Special purpose cables.
Important! During electrical work, it is necessary to know the type of cable required for a particular situation, since their electrical properties and design features are different. Accordingly, for example, when laying power lines, the use of a communication cable is unacceptable.
Power cables
This type of product is intended for the transportation and distribution of electricity in stationary installations. It is used for the organization of power transmission lines, installation of wiring of premises, power supply of industrial equipment and other things.
The core is usually made of aluminum, copper-aluminum alloy, copper. The material of the insulating layer can be rubber, PVC, paper tape, cross-linked polyethylene and others. The protective shell can be plastic, aluminum or lead alloy. The operating voltage range is from 660 V to 450-500 kV.
Popular representatives: AVBShv, VVG, AVVG, VVG-P, AVVGng and other variations.
Communication cables
Organization of wired telecommunication and signaling system is carried out by means of communication cables. They are divided into two groups:
- High-frequency cables are used to lay communication lines over long distances;
- Low-frequency products are used to mount local communication lines.
Copper communication cable is the most popular representative of this product class, having copper conductors. They are insulated mainly from plastic, paper or polyethylene, and a combination of these materials is also possible. The containment can be made of lead, plastic, steel and aluminum.
Common brands: CCI, TPV, TZK, TZG, KMB, KMG, MKSG and others.
Control cable
The connection of household appliances and electrical equipment, control over the operation of objects, the organization of signaling mechanisms are carried out by means of control type electric cables.
The conductive element in such products can be made of bimetal (aluminum-copper), aluminum or copper. The insulating layer is PVC plastic, various variations of polyethylene and, occasionally, rubber material.
Representatives: KVVG, AKVBbshv, KVVGEng, AKVVGEng, KSPV, KSPVG, KVK, KVK-t, KVK-V and others.
Control cable
Wiring products used to transport low-power signals from sensors to control devices, as well as to control mechanisms at a distance, are called control cables. They can be either flat or round.
The cores in these electrical cables are made only of copper, they can be shielded, but the insulating layer can be made of any substance: rubber, PVC, polyethylene material, fluoroplastic. The shell is made of plastic, on top of which armor in the form of steel wires is often applied.
Popular modifications: KPV (single-core copper electric cable), KRShS, KRShU, KGVV, MERSh-M and others.
RF cables
The transport of various signals, pulses and digital information in various ranges is carried out using radio frequency cables.
The conductor element is made of copper composition, the insulation is made of fluoroplastic or polyethylene. Insulation can also be semi-airy due to the use of porous plastic or cordels (filler). The insulating layer is usually covered with an outer conductor element and a protective polyethylene or plastic sheath.
Popular brands of this class: RK, RD, RS and their subspecies.
Special purpose electrical cables
There is also cable products of a narrow focus (special purpose), which can be used to organize the operation of equipment on assembly lines, conveyors, transport systems and other mechanisms. The design of such cables can be any - it all depends on the input parameters.
Types of wires by destination
According to the scope of application, wires are divided into the following types:
- installation wiring products are necessary for the distribution of electricity and connection to the network of various consumers (the most popular brands: APV with a small cross-section - single-core aluminum cable, different variations of PVA);
- winding wires are used for winding sections and elements of electrical mechanisms, measuring instruments and regulating devices (PEL brands - single-core copper wire, PEV, PLBD, PSD and others);
- insulated and non-insulated wires are used to transport electricity through overhead power lines (marking - M, A, AC and their variations);
- installation wires are used to connect radio components and elements of electronic equipment with each other (brands MGTF, MGSHV, MLP, MSTP and others).
In each of these categories, there are many types of cabling and wiring products identified by special markings. Structurally, cables and wires differ in the overall parameters of the conductive cores and the material from which they are made, the type of sheath and outer protective cover, the design of the armor (if any) and other criteria that determine the areas of application of the products and the conditions of their operation.
The types of electric cables and the decoding of their brands are individual for each separate category of products.
Power cables
This type of cable products is used to solve the 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 the transmitted current).
Here are some brands of power cables and their areas of application:
Alarm cables and wires
This category of electrical cables and wires includes cabling and wiring products intended for building fire and / or security alarm systems. Their main task is to transmit electrical signals from analog and digital sensors for smoke, motion, temperature, etc.
Also, cables are used to supply power to light and sound alarms, direction indicators (for quick evacuation of people during a fire), automatic fire extinguishing devices and other devices. An important difference lies in their increased resistance to high temperatures, which, in particular, is one of the main requirements in the design of 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 outdoor electrical mechanisms. Most often they are used for laying along city and federal railways to adjust the operation of switches, signaling devices, traffic lights. They are also used, for example, to control barriers in car parks.
The company "Kabel.RF ®" is one of the leaders in the sale of cable products and has warehouses located in almost all regions of the Russian Federation. After consulting with the company's specialists, you can purchase the brand you need at competitive prices.
Today, few people imagine their life without the use of electrical appliances. However, electricity is not only a guarantee of a comfortable life, but also a source of danger. When thinking about the electrification of your own home or about repairs that involve changing the wiring, you need to carefully consider the issue of fire safety.
In addition, it will be important to select the best wires for wiring, taking into account the specific conditions. The nuances of choice and varieties will be discussed below.
Varieties
Consider the types of wires and their purpose for internal and external (street) conduction of an electrical network. Copper and aluminum are used as materials.
Today, preference is given to wires with copper conductors, since this metal has much less resistance. Copper wire is able to give more power and pass more current than aluminum, despite the same cross-section.
In addition, the lifespan of the copper product is longer. However, aluminum is a cheaper metal, so relatively recently it was widely used in the arrangement of wiring in residential buildings.
The number of veins also serves as the basis for identifying varieties. Single-core and stranded wires are distinguished. The first ones are stiff and bend poorly, the main direction of their use is to create simple hidden wiring.
The latter are capable of bending repeatedly and have a high degree of softness. Used as cords to connect a variety of household appliances, to create extension cords. Suitable for surface wiring. The main safety requirement for stranded wires is double braiding.
It is important to remember that the connection of different metals by twisting is strictly prohibited. Oxidation or heating and loss of contact will occur. It is correct to do the wiring with only one type of wire (in terms of material of manufacture).
As for the main types of wire insulation, there are several of them: rubber, PVC (the most popular option), paper (used extremely rarely) and fluoroplastic (the most reliable).
Concealed wiring
Marking electrical wires allows you to understand their characteristics. The abbreviation may contain letters denoting material and numbers indicating the cross-section and number of cores.
The marking of non-armored aluminum wire will be AVVG (VVG). In the absence of the letter "A", we can conclude that we have a copper wire in front of us. Concealed wiring in a dry living room or office can be made of wires of the AVVG brand.
The letter "G" means no protective insulation, literally "bare" wire. Non-combustible modifications are designated as VVGng. Reduced emission of VVGng-LS smoke.
You can also use ШВВП - flat copper wire of stranded type. The cross section of this variety is not more than 0.75 mm2.
Outdoor wiring
Wooden houses, as well as interiors made in retro style, imply external wiring. The type of wire here entirely depends on the material of the walls.
Only wires of non-combustible brands should be used, for example, the already mentioned VVGng. Perhaps the design of the premises will make the color of the walls and wires inadequate to each other. In this case, you can use a cable channel.
Street mounting
An underground electric wire can be connected to the building, but a prerequisite for this is the use of an armored cable. The designation is as follows - AVBBSHV (VBBSHV).
Reservation is carried out due to a special steel tape, which is located on top of the second layer of insulation and has its own protective rubber braid. Thus, a high degree of protection against mechanical stress and groundwater is achieved.
The armored wire is able to conduct electricity to the house for a long time and reliably. For wall wiring, varieties of the AVVG brand of different sections are used. The wires are not afraid of precipitation and the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.
In high humidity conditions
If the room is operated in conditions of high humidity, for example, if it is a bathhouse, basement or shed, then a special wire is required to create an electrical network.
The best option would be a heat-resistant cable with protective silicone insulation. Among these, the brands PVKV and RKGM stand out. The main requirement for arranging a network is high-quality grounding not only of the wiring itself, but also of all devices.
Dimensions and calculation of wire cross-section
There are many types of wire cross-sections, a specific brand is chosen taking into account the device that will be connected using this wire. It is extremely important to correctly calculate the section.
The scheme of actions should be as follows. First, you need to calculate the sum of the capacities of all consumers inside and outside the house (street lighting, for example). The resulting value will allow you to select the main cable leading from the power line through the meter to the house.
Then the total power is calculated for each room or individual area. The wires from the main switchboard must match the value obtained. The wiring for each section is carried out depending on the specific consumer, whether it be a simple light bulb or a TV.
In general, you can find out the required wire cross-section based on the power of the consuming device from a special table. It is easy to find it on the net or in any good reference book on the subject of electrical engineering. When making calculations, rounding is done upward to provide some contingency margin.
How to make a choice
The question of which wires to choose should be decided by an electrician. But with certain experience and basic knowledge, you can make the correct choice yourself. The main thing is that the cross-section of the purchased wires fully corresponds to the power consumption. Installation of exposed wiring involves a combination of the color of the wires and the material of the walls.
There are wires that are not recommended for fire safety reasons. Among them: PUNP, PUVP, PBPP and PUNGP. Outwardly, they differ little from less dangerous analogs, so you need to be extremely careful, and it is better to entrust the matter to a specialist.
It will not be superfluous to check the certificates for products from the manufacturer. Bona fide sellers must have documentation without fail.
Be guided not only by viewing photos of wires from the catalog or scraps at the exhibition stand. Check the markings on the bay itself. Then there will be much more guarantees for the purchase of the required products. If any designations are missing, it is better to refuse to purchase such a product.
Electrification of the premises, carried out with careful preliminary calculations and without saving on materials, gives a durable and safe result. Excellent quality of wires, the required cross-section and compliance with elementary safety rules during installation and operation will allow you to achieve a high level of comfort in your home.
Photo of wires of different types
The electrical wiring in the house, cottage serves to transport electricity to various kinds of electricity consumers: lighting fixtures, heaters, boilers, pumps, TVs, etc. All these devices create comfortable living conditions and have a wide range of power consumption from 10 W (shavers, DVD) to 5 kW (boilers, electric boilers). The role of electrical wires is very difficult to overestimate. Further comfort and safety during operation depends on the correct choice of wire types for different groups of consumers at the design and construction stage. Hundreds of meters of reasons for various purposes are hidden within the walls of modern buildings, and they are all different - some of them are thicker, others are thinner, some have two veins, and some have three or more. Each wire has its own purpose (power wiring, lighting, signal cables, telephone cables, the Internet) and is responsible for the operation of an electrical appliance. Of the many different types of wires and cables in this article, we will consider electrical wires and cables used in construction to transport electricity. Consider their varieties, brands and applications. Electrical wiring- consists of wires and cables with associated fasteners, supporting and protective structures.
Electric wires are available in copper and aluminum. Copper wires have better conductivity than aluminum wires, but they are also more expensive.
What is wire?
The wire- this is one uninsulated or one or more insulated conductors, on top of which there can be a non-metallic sheath, winding or braiding of fibrous materials or wire. The wires can be bare or insulated. The wires can be used for power lines, for the manufacture of windings of electric motors, for connections in electronic equipment, etc.
Bare wires do not have any protective or insulated coatings, they are mainly used for power lines.
The conductors of the insulated wires are covered with PVC, rubber or plastic insulation.
Installation wires- wires for low voltage electrical distribution networks.
Naked are called wires that do not have protective or insulating coatings on top of the conductive cores. Bare wires of the brands PSO, PS, A, AC, etc. are used, as a rule, for overhead power lines.
Isolated are called wires in which the conductive cores are covered with insulation, and over the insulation there is a braid of cotton yarn or a sheath of rubber, plastic or metal tape. Insulated wires can be either shielded or unprotected.
Protected insulated wires are called, having a sheath over the electrical insulation, designed to seal and protect against external climatic influences. These include wires of the APRN, PRVD, APRF brands, etc.
Unprotected called insulated wires that do not have a protective sheath over the electrical insulation (wires of the APRTO, PRD, APPR, APPV, PPV brands).
What is a cable?
Cable- one or more insulated conductors enclosed in a common sealed sheath (lead, aluminum, rubber, plastic), on top of which, depending on the conditions of laying and operation, there can be an armor sheath (coating of steel tapes or flat or round wire). Such cables are called armored. Unarmored cables are used where there is no possibility of mechanical damage.
According to the field of application, cables are divided into the following types:
What is a cord?
Cord - a wire consisting of two or more insulated flexible conductors with a cross section of up to 1.5 mm, covered with a non-metallic sheath or other protective covers. The cord is used to connect household appliances (table lamps, vacuum cleaners, washing machines) to the network. The core of the cord is necessarily multi-wired, in addition, the cores are interconnected by a twist or a common braid.
Two-core cords are used if the device body does not require protective neutralization, if neutralization is required, then three-core cords are used.
MARKING OF WIRES AND CABLES
Wire (cable) brand is a letter designation characterizing the material of conductive conductors, insulation, degree of flexibility and design of protective covers. In the designation of wires, certain rules are established.
Wires and cables are marked with letters.
First letter. Core material: A - aluminum, copper - no letters.
Second letter. In the designation of the wire: P - wire (PP - flat wire), K - control, M-mounting, MG - mounting with a flexible core, P (U) or W - installation, in the designation of the cable sheath material.
Third letter... In the designation of the wire and cable - the insulation material of the cores: V or BP - polyvinyl chloride (PVC), P - polyethylene, R - rubber, N or HP - nitrite (non-combustible rubber), F - folded (metal) sheath, K - nylon, L - lacquered, ME - enameled, O - polyamide silk braid, W - polyamide silk insulation, C - fiberglass, E - shielded, G - with a flexible core, T - with a supporting cable.
The rubber insulation of the wire can be protected by sheaths: B - polyvinyl chloride, H - nitrite. The letters B and H are placed after the designation of the wire insulation material.
Fourth letter. Design features. A - asphalt, B - with armored tapes, D - flexible (wire), without a protective cover (power cable), K - armored with round wires, O - braided, T - for laying in pipes.
Control cables.
A - the first letter, then an aluminum conductor, in its absence - a copper conductor.
B - the second letter (in the absence of A) - PVC insulation.
B - the third letter (in the absence of A) - PVC sheath.
P - polyethylene insulation.
Ps - self-extinguishing polyethylene insulation.
G - lack of a protective layer.
P - rubber insulation.
K - the first or second letter (after A) - control cable.
KG - flexible cable.
F - PTFE insulation.
E - in the middle or at the end of the designation - shielded cable.
Letter designation of installation wires
Installation wires.
M - at the beginning of the designation - installation wire.
G - stranded conductor, if the letter is absent, then single-wire.
Ш - polyamide silk insulation.
B - PVC insulation.
K - nylon insulation.
L - lacquered.
C - fiberglass winding and braid.
D - double braid.
O - polyamide silk braid.
Special designations. PV-1, PV-3 - vinyl-insulated wire. 1, 3 - flexibility class of the conductor.
PVA - connecting wire in a vinyl sheath.
ШВВП - vinyl-insulated cord, in a vinyl sheath, flat.
PUNP - universal flat wire.
PUGNP - universal flat flexible wire.
Letter designation of installation wires
In addition to letter designations, brands of wires, cables and cords contain digital designations: the first number is the number of cores, the second number is the cross-sectional area, the third is the rated voltage of the network. The absence of the first digit means that the cable or wire is solid. The cross-sectional areas of the veins are standardized. The values of the area of \ u200b \ u200bthe sections of wires are selected, depending on the strength of the current, the material of the cores, the conditions of laying (cooling).
The designation of the cords must contain the letter Ш.
Examples of designation:
PPV 2x1.5-380- copper wire, with PVC insulation, flat, two-core, cross-sectional area of 1.5 mm, for voltage 380 V.
VVG 4x2.5-380- cable with copper conductors, in PVC insulation, in a PVC sheath, without a protective cover, 4-core, with a conductor cross-sectional area of 2.5 mm, for a voltage of 380 V.
Color coding of wires
In addition to the alphanumeric marking of wires and cables, there is a color marking. Below we list the colors that mark the wire and the corresponding purpose of the core:
In addition, in accordance with the PUE, it is allowed to use a different color for the phase conductor, for example, brown, white.
PVC and rubber insulated power cables.
АС - aluminum core and lead sheath.
AA - aluminum core and aluminum sheath.
B - armor made of two steel tapes with anti-corrosion coating.
Bn - the same, but with a non-combustible protective layer.
B - the first (in the absence of A) letter - PVC insulation.
B - the second (in the absence of A) letter - PVC sheath.
Г - at the end of the designation - there is no protective layer over the armor or shell.
Shv - a protective layer in the form of an extruded PVC hose (sheath).
Шп - a protective layer in the form of a pressed hose (sheath) made of polyethylene.
K - armor made of round galvanized steel wires, over which a protective layer is applied, if K is at the beginning of the designation, the control cable.
C - lead sheath.
O - separate shells on top of each phase.
P - rubber insulation.
HP - rubber insulation and sheath made of flame retardant rubber. P - insulation or sheath made of thermoplastic polyethylene.
Ps - insulation or sheath made of self-extinguishing, non-flammable polyethylene.
PV - insulation made of vulcanized polyethylene.
ng - does not support combustion.
LS - Low Smoke - reduced smoke emission.
ng-LS - does not support combustion, with reduced smoke emission.
FR - with increased fire resistance (mica tape is usually used as a fire-resistant material)
FRLS - with reduced smoke emission, with increased fire resistance
E - shield of copper wires and a spirally applied copper tape
KG - flexible cable.
DECODING MARKING OF WIRES AND CABLES IMPORTED
PRODUCTION
Power cable.
N - the cable is made according to the German VDE standard (Verband Deutscher
Elektrotechniker - German Electrical Engineering Association).
Y - PVC insulation.
H - No halogens (harmful organic compounds) in PVC insulation.
M - Installation cable.
C - The presence of a copper shield.
RG - Availability of armor.
Control cable.
Y - PVC insulation.
SL - Control cable.
Li - Stranded conductor according to the German VDE standard.
Installation wires.
H - Harmonized wire (HAR approval).
N - Conformity to national standard.
05 - Rated voltage 300/500 V.
07 - Rated voltage 450/750 V.
V - PVC insulation.
K - Flexible conductor for fixed installation
Indoor electrical wires
Electrical wires for internal wiring are somewhat different from power cables - first of all, these differences relate to their technical characteristics and the cross-section of the wire itself. There are a lot of varieties of such electrical wires, as well as cable products, and therefore the question of its choice is quite acute.
PBPP (PUNP)- installation wire with flat single cores, placed in PVC insulation and the same outer sheath. It can have from one to three cores with a maximum cross-section of 6 squares. In most cases, it is used for lighting electrical wiring - it is not excluded to connect sockets with it, but on condition that low-power consumers are turned on in them. They can have both copper and aluminum conductors - in the latter case, they are marked as APBPP.
PBPPg (PUGNP). Their main difference from PBPP is in the veins themselves - they are twisted and consist of thin wires. The letter "g" at the end of the marking indicates that this wire is flexible.
PPV. Single-core copper wire - recommended for hidden electrical wiring or for installation in a corrugation or cable duct. Has single insulation.
APPV- the same as PPV, only with an aluminum conductive core.
APV- one of the varieties of PPV. It differs from it in an aluminum twisted core, consisting of wires tightly wound together. Produced in cross-sections up to 16 squares.
PVS... This is one of the most common brands of electrical wires and cables - the sheath and its insulation are made of PVC. Its distinctive feature is its round cross-section and twisted conductors. The cross-section of such electrical wires can vary from 0.75 to 16 squares. As a rule, it is used to connect household electricity consumers - wiring with this wire is not carried out.
Ball screw- copper or copper-tinned flat electrical wire intended for household needs. Just like PVS, it is used to connect household consumers. This is a twisted electrical wire, the cores of which consist of thin wires - it can have a cross section of 0.5 to 16 squares.
Below are tables for selecting a specific brand of wire, cable, depending on the conditions of use.
WIRE BRANDS
| Brand | Core section, mm | Number of lived | Characteristic | Application |
| APV | 2,5-120 | 1 | Wire with aluminum core, PVC insulation |
For the installation of power and |
| APPV | 2,5-6 | 2; 3 | PVC insulation, flat, with separating base |
For the installation of power and in pipes, channels |
| APR | 2,5-120 | 1 | Wire with aluminum core, rubber insulated, braided with cotton yarn. |
For laying in pipes |
| APPR | 2,5-6 | 2; 3 | Aluminum conductor, rubber insulated |
For laying on wooden structures of residential and industrial buildings |
| APRN | 2,5-120 | 1 | Wire with aluminum core, rubber insulated, non-flammable |
For laying in dry and damp indoors, in canals, outdoors. |
| PV-1 | 0,5-95 | 1 | Copper wire, PVC insulation |
For the installation of power and lighting networks in pipes, channels |
| PV-2 | 2,5-95 | 1 | Copper wire, PVC insulation, flexible |
For the installation of power and lighting networks in pipes, channels |
| PPV | 0,75-4 | 2; 3 | PVC insulated copper wire, flat, with dividing base |
For the installation of power and lighting networks on walls, partitions, hidden wiring, in pipes, channels |
| NS | 0,75-120 | 1 | Copper wire, rubber insulated, braided with cotton yarn, impregnated with anti-rot |
For laying in pipes |
| PVS | 0,5-2,5 | 2; 3 | with copper conductors, PVC insulation, PVC shell |
To connect household |
| PRS | 0,5-4 | 2; 3 | Flexible wire, twisted with copper conductors, rubber insulation, rubber sheath |
To connect household electrical appliances - washing machines, vacuum cleaners, extension cords |
| PUNP (PBPP) | 1,5-4 | 2; 3 | Copper wire, PVC insulation, PVC sheath |
For laying in lighting networks, installation and connection of low-current household appliances destination |
| MGSH | 0,05-0,12 | 1 | Installation wire, flexible with copper core, with silk insulation |
electrical devices |
| MGShV | 0,12-1,5 | 1 | Installation wire, flexible, with copper core, with a combined silk and PVC isolation |
For stationary and mobile installation of intra-block and inter-block connections in electronic and electrical devices |
| TRP | 0,4-0,5 | 2 | Copper wire, polyethylene insulation, with a separating base |
For open and hidden telephone network wiring |
CABLE BRANDS
| Brand | Core section, mm | Number of lived | Characteristic | Application |
| AVVG | 2,5-50 | 1; 2; 3; 4 | For laying outdoors | |
| AVRG | 4-300 | 1; 2; 3; 4 | Power cable, with aluminum | For laying in air when |
| ANRG | 4-300 | 1; 2; 3; 4 | Power cable, with aluminum shell |
For laying in air when no mechanical stress, in dry or damp rooms, tunnels, canals, on special cable racks and over bridges |
| VVG | 1,5-50 | 1; 2; 3; 4 | Power cable with copper conductors, PVC insulation, PVC sheath |
For laying outdoors air, along routes protected from direct sunlight |
| AWG | 1-240 | 1; 2; 3; 4 | Power cable with copper cores, rubber insulated, PVC sheathed |
For laying in air when no mechanical stress, in dry or damp rooms, tunnels, canals, on special cable racks and over bridges |
| IWG | 1-240 | 1; 2; 3; 4 | Power cable with copper conductors, rubber insulation, rubber oil-resistant and non-combustible shell |
For laying in air when no mechanical stress, in dry or damp rooms, tunnels, canals, on special cable racks and over bridges |
| NYM | 1,5-32 | 2; 3; 4; 5 | Power cable, with one or stranded copper conductor, PVC insulation, in flame retardant polyvinyl chloride sheath. It has additional rubber filling layer. |
For wiring - dry and wet indoors, outdoors, outside direct exposure sunlight, in pipes, channels, on special cable racks for connecting industrial installations, connecting household appliances in stationary installations |
CORD BRANDS
| Brand | Core section, mm | Number of lived | Characteristic | Application |
| SHVL | 0,5 - 0,75 | 2; 3 | Flexible cord with twisted | To connect household electrical appliances - teapots, |
| ShPV-1 | 0,35-0,75 | 2 | Flexible cord with twisted cores, PVC sheathed |
To connect radio equipment, televisions, soldering irons |
| ShPV-2 | 0,35-0,75 | 2 | Flexible cord with twisted cores, PVC sheathed |
For connecting wall and fans, soldering irons, etc. |
| Ball screw | 0,35-0,75 | 2; 3 | High flexibility cord, flat, in PVC insulation, in PVC shell |
For connecting wall and floor lamps, household electrical appliances - teapots, fans, soldering irons, etc. |
| SHRO | 0,35-1 | 2; 3 | Flexible cord with twisted cores, rubber-insulated, cotton-braided or synthetic yarn |
To connect household electrical appliances - kettles, fans, soldering irons, etc. (where higher temperature stability required) |
