Electrical Cable Code?

In many instances, we encountered alphanumeric codes used to specify technical details of cables, such as A2XWY, A2XFY, A2XFaY,. But what do these codes actually signify?

There exists a standardized nomenclature employed to describe these technical specifications, where each letter or combination of letters represents a specific characteristic of the cable:

Where,

A -? Aluminium

2X- XLPE Insulation

W – Steel round wire armour

F- Steel Strip Armour

WW- Double Steel round Armour

FF- Double Steel Strip Armour

Y- PVC outer Sheath

Wa- Non Magnetic round wire Armour

Fa- Non Magnetic Strip Armour

AW- Aluminum Wire Armour

For instance, the code A2XWY denotes an Aluminum cable with XLPE insulation, Steel round wire armour, and a PVC outer sheath. This coding system aligns with the standards set forth in IS 7098 (Part 1): 1988.

It's important to note that when dealing with copper cables, there is no need for a similar coding system.

XLPE cables offer several advantages over PVC cables or thermoplastic cables:

1. XLPE cables have a higher power rating, approximately 1.2 times that of PVC cables.
2. XLPE cables boast a greater short-circuit rating, roughly 1.2 times that of PVC cables.
3. XLPE cables can operate at higher temperatures, up to 90 degrees Celsius.
4. XLPE cables have a higher short-circuit temperature rating, up to 250 degrees Celsius.
5. XLPE cables exhibit superior insulation resistance, approximately 1000 times that of PVC cables.
6. XLPE cables are significantly more resistant to moisture, approximately 100 times more so than PVC cables.
7. XLPE cables demonstrate increased resistance to chemicals and corrosive gases, making them suitable for harsh weather conditions.
8. XLPE cables offer a longer cable life and higher electrical retention strength.

These advantages make XLPE cables a preferred choice in various applications where performance, durability, and reliability are critical factors.