Understanding the Importance of Control Cables in Industrial Automation

Control cables are electrical cables that are specifically designed for transmitting signals or data between different components in industrial automation systems. These cables are used to control and operate various machines and equipment, including sensors, actuators, motors, and other devices, that are integral parts of automated processes.

Control cables play a critical role in industrial automation systems, as they are responsible for transmitting signals and data between different components. Without control cables, it would be impossible to control and operate machines and equipment in an automated environment, leading to reduced efficiency, productivity, and increased downtime.

The purpose of this blog post is to provide an overview of control cables, their importance in industrial automation, and their different types, construction, and applications.

Types of control cables

Control cables are generally classified based on their construction, insulation material, and application. The basic principles of control cable include their ability to transmit signals or data reliably and efficiently, their resistance to mechanical and environmental stresses, and their ability to meet specific electrical requirements.

There are several types of control cables commonly used in industrial automation systems. PVC control cables are a popular option due to their flexibility, durability, and resistance to oil and chemicals. XLPE control cables, on the other hand, offer better resistance to heat and higher voltage capacities. Other types of control cables include LSZH cables, PUR cables, and rubber cables, each with their own unique properties and applications.

The properties of each type of control cable depend on factors such as the insulation material, conductor size, number of cores, and shielding. For example, PVC control cables typically have a temperature range of -15°C to +70°C and a voltage rating of up to 300V. XLPE control cables, on the other hand, have a temperature range of -40°C to +90°C and a voltage rating of up to 1000V. LSZH cables are known for their low smoke and zero halogen properties, making them suitable for use in areas where fire safety is a concern. PUR cables are highly resistant to oil and abrasion, while rubber cables are flexible and ideal for use in harsh environments.

Applications of control cables in industrial automation systems

Control cables play a crucial role in transmitting data and signals between different components in industrial automation systems. They are essential for controlling and operating machines, equipment, and devices in automated environments, enabling real-time communication and control.

Control cables are used in various types of automation systems, including factory automation, process automation, and building automation. In factory automation, control cables are used to control and operate machinery, assembly lines, and material handling systems. In process automation, they are used in chemical processing plants, refineries, and other industrial applications. In building automation, they are used to control lighting, HVAC systems, and security systems. Overall, control cables are essential components in industrial automation systems, providing reliable and efficient communication and control between different components.

Factors to consider when selecting control cables for industrial automation systems

Selecting the right control cable for an industrial automation system is crucial to ensure its reliable and efficient operation. There are several factors to consider when selecting control cables, including environmental factors, electrical characteristics, and mechanical properties.

Environmental factors to consider include temperature range, moisture exposure, and exposure to chemicals or other corrosive substances. Electrical characteristics such as voltage rating, current capacity, and impedance also play a significant role in selecting the appropriate control cable. The mechanical properties of the cable, such as flexibility and durability, also need to be considered, as they can affect the cable’s performance and longevity.

Importance of maintenance and troubleshooting of control cables

Maintaining and troubleshooting control cables is essential to ensure their reliable and efficient operation. Common issues that can affect the performance of control cables include damage to the insulation, corrosion, and mechanical stress. Over time, these issues can lead to signal degradation, intermittent faults, and system failures.

To maintain control cables, regular inspections, cleaning, and protection are necessary. Inspections can help identify any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage to the cable, while cleaning can help remove any contaminants that may affect the cable’s performance. Protecting the cables from harsh environments, such as exposure to chemicals or extreme temperatures, is also essential to prevent damage.

When problems arise with control cables, troubleshooting techniques can help identify and resolve them quickly. Techniques such as continuity testing, insulation resistance testing, and visual inspections can help locate faults and determine the extent of any damage. By addressing issues promptly, it is possible to avoid costly downtime and ensure that automation systems operate reliably and efficiently.

Conclusion

Selecting the right control cable for industrial automation systems is critical to ensure reliable and efficient operation. It is essential to consider factors such as environmental conditions, electrical characteristics, and mechanical properties when selecting control cables. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting are also crucial to identify and resolve issues promptly and prevent downtime.

By selecting the appropriate control cable and implementing proper maintenance procedures, industrial automation systems can operate efficiently and reliably, leading to increased productivity and reduced downtime. It is crucial to work with professionals who can provide guidance and support in selecting the right control cable and implementing proper maintenance and troubleshooting procedures to ensure the best results.

Benefits of Nickel Copper wire- Reasons to Prefer it

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Nickel copper wire is a type of wire that is made by combining nickel and copper in varying proportions. This type of wire is used in a variety of applications due to its unique properties, such as its high electrical conductivity, resistance to corrosion, and strength. In this article, we will explore the properties and uses of nickel-copper wire in more detail.

Properties of Nickel Copper Wire

Nickel copper wire is a type of alloy that is made by combining nickel and copper in varying proportions. The exact composition of the alloy can vary depending on the desired properties and the intended use of the wire. However, typically, the copper content in nickel copper wire is higher than the nickel content.

One of the most important properties of nickel-copper wire is its high electrical conductivity. This means that the wire can carry electricity with minimal resistance, making it ideal for use in electrical applications such as wiring, cables, and conductors. The high electrical conductivity of nickel-copper wire also makes it suitable for use in electronic devices, where it is used as a conductor for transmitting electrical signals.

Another important property of nickel-copper wire is its resistance to corrosion. This makes it ideal for use in harsh environments where the wire may be exposed to moisture, chemicals, or other corrosive substances. Nickel copper wire is also resistant to oxidation, which helps to maintain its strength and conductivity over time.

Uses of Nickel Copper Wire

Nickel copper wire has a wide range of uses due to its unique properties. Here are some of the most common applications of nickel-copper wire:

Electrical wiring and cables: Nickel copper alloy is commonly used in electrical wiring and cables due to its high electrical conductivity. It is also used in coaxial cables, which are used for transmitting high-frequency signals in telecommunications and broadcasting.
Electronic devices: Nickel copper wire is used as a conductor in electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and other portable devices. Its high electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion make it ideal for use in these applications.
Heating elements: Nickel copper wire is used in heating elements for industrial applications such as furnaces and ovens. Its high melting point and strength make it ideal for use in high-temperature applications.
Jewelry: Nickel copper wire is used in the production of jewelry due to its strength and malleability. It is often used to create intricate designs and patterns in jewelry pieces.
Medical devices: Nickel copper wire is used in medical devices such as pacemakers and other implantable devices. Its biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion make it ideal for use in these applications.

Conclusion

Nickel copper wire is a versatile type of wire that is used in a variety of applications due to its unique properties. Its high electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and strength make it ideal for use in electrical and electronic devices, heating elements, jewelry, and medical devices. The exact composition of the alloy can vary depending on the intended use of the wire. However, typically, the copper content in nickel copper wire is higher than the nickel content. With its many benefits, the copper wire will continue to be an important material for many applications in the future.

Common Issues with Electrical Copper Wire and How to Troubleshoot Them?

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Copper is a highly efficient conductor of electricity, meaning that it can transmit electrical current with minimal resistance. This makes it an ideal material for use in electrical wiring, as it can help to ensure that electricity flows smoothly and efficiently throughout the system.

Copper wire is also highly resistant to corrosion, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for use in electrical systems. It is also easy to work with, as it can be easily bent, twisted, and shaped to fit a variety of applications.

There are a few different types of copper wire that are commonly used in electrical systems, including solid copper wire and stranded copper wire. Solid copper wire is made up of a single, solid strand of copper and is typically used in applications where high levels of conductivity are required. Stranded copper wire, on the other hand, is made up of a bundle of smaller copper strands that are twisted together to form a larger wire. Stranded copper wire is more flexible than solid copper wire and is often used in applications where the wire needs to be bent or shaped.

Overall, copper wire is a reliable and efficient choice for use in electrical systems, and it is widely used in a variety of applications, from residential wiring to automotive wiring and beyond.

Common Issues with Electrical Copper Wire

Copper wire is a popular choice for use in electrical systems due to its high conductivity and durability. However, like any electrical component, electrical copper wire can sometimes experience issues that can disrupt the functioning of an electrical system. Here are five common issues that can arise with electrical copper wire, along with some tips for troubleshooting and resolving these problems:

Corrosion: Electrical copper wire can corrode over time due to exposure to moisture, acid, or other corrosive substances. If you notice that your electrical copper wire is showing signs of corrosion, such as green or blue discoloration, you should replace it as soon as possible to prevent electrical problems.
Loose connections: Electrical copper wire connections can become loose over time, leading to intermittent electrical issues or even a complete failure of the system. To troubleshoot loose connections, you can try tightening the connections or rewiring the system if necessary.
Wire damage: Electrical copper wire can be damaged by physical stress, such as bending or crushing, or by exposure to heat or flame. If you notice that your electrical copper wire is damaged, you should replace it to prevent electrical problems.
Overloading: Electrical copper wire has a specific current-carrying capacity, and if it is overloaded, it can cause electrical issues or even a fire. To prevent overloading, make sure that you are using the appropriate size of electrical copper wire for your electrical system and that you are not exceeding the recommended load for the wire.
Poor installation: Electrical copper wire that is not installed correctly can lead to a variety of electrical issues. To troubleshoot problems caused by poor installation, you may need to re-install the Electrical copper wire or hire a professional electrician to fix the issue.

How to Troubleshoot Common Electrical Copper Wire Issues?

If you are dealing with corrosion, it is important to identify the cause of the corrosion and take steps to prevent it from occurring again in the future. For example, if the corrosion is caused by exposure to moisture, you may need to improve the ventilation or waterproofing in your electrical system. If you are having issues with loose connections, it is important to make sure that the connections are tightened securely and that the wire is not damaged. You may also need to ensure that the wire is clamped or secured properly to prevent it from moving or vibrating.

If you are dealing with damaged wire, it is important to replace it as soon as possible to prevent electrical problems. Make sure to use the appropriate size and type of wire for your electrical system, and follow all safety precautions when working with electrical components.

To prevent overloading, it is important to pay attention to the current-carrying capacity of your copper wire and make sure that you are not exceeding its recommended load. You should also be mindful of the overall load on your electrical system and make sure that it is not overloaded. If you are experiencing issues with poor installation, you may need to reinstall the copper wire or hire a professional electrician to fix the problem. Make sure to follow all relevant electrical codes and guidelines, and use the appropriate tools and techniques when installing electrical components.

Conclusion

In conclusion, copper wire is a reliable choice for use in electrical systems, however, like any electrical component, electrical copper wire can sometimes experience issues that can disrupt the functioning of an electrical system. Some common issues that can arise with copper wire include corrosion, loose connections, wire damage, overloading, and poor installation.

To troubleshoot these issues, it is important to identify the root cause of the problem and take the appropriate steps to fix it. This may involve replacing the damaged wire, tightening loose connections, improving ventilation or waterproofing to prevent corrosion, or re-installing wire that has been poorly installed.

Thus, it is important to be vigilant in maintaining your electrical system and paying attention to any issues that may arise with your copper wire. By taking prompt action to address these issues, you can help to ensure the safety and reliability of your electrical system.

Properties and Uses of Nickel Copper Alloy

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You may want to consider MONEL nickel-copper alloys if you need high corrosion resistance and good strength but don’t want to pay for commercially pure nickel.

MONEL alloys include Nickel-Copper alloys, some of which have significant additions of other alloying metals to create high-quality, versatile materials.

Among the main benefits of Nickel Copper alloys is that they are similar in properties to commercially pure nickel yet are much more affordable, which can be useful for projects with a smaller budget. There are two different MONEL products available at Corrotherm, suitable for a variety of applications.

MONEL ALLOY 400

MONEL alloy 400 consists primarily of copper (28-34%), nickel (63%), and is derived directly from the nickel and copper ore bodies of Canada. The alloy was discovered by Robert Crooks Stanley in 1901 while he was working for the International Nickel Company ( INCO) and named after the company’s president, Ambrose Monell. For more than 100 years, it has been used in petroleum distillation tower internals, fasteners and fittings, pumps and valve internals.

The properties of this material make it suitable for other industry areas as well. Using cold work, it can be hardened by solid-solution alloys. The composition of this material ensures that it has high strength and toughness over a wide temperature range. With only a slight reduction in ductility and impact resistance at subzero temperatures, it has excellent mechanical properties. At liquid hydrogen temperatures, it doesn’t even undergo a ductile-to-brittle transition. Similarly, it performs well in extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for boiler feedwater heaters and other heat exchangers, as well as deaerating heaters.

Marine and chemical processing plants often use the material due to its excellent resistance to corrosive environments. Alloys with a high copper wire content are considered more resistant to attack by oxidizing media, for example. In flowing seawater, its corrosion rate is low, whereas stagnant conditions may cause stress and pitting corrosion. In most freshwater and industrial environments, however, the alloy is resistant to cracking and pitting caused by stress corrosion.

Alloys commonly used in engineering provide exceptional resistance to hydrofluoric acid up to boiling point and are considered to be the most resistant alloys. As a reducing agent, it is also resistant to sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid.

MONEL ALLOY K-500

MONEL alloy K-500 is a variation of MONEL alloy 400. During melting, titanium (0.35-0.85%) and aluminium (2.3-3.15%) are added to create a precipitation-strengthened version. With the inclusion of other metals and an age hardening process, MONEL alloy 400 retains its excellent corrosion resistance while increasing strength and hardness.

Fasteners and valve internals made from MONEL alloy K-500 are used in oil extraction, marine and chemical processing. Hot or cold working and heat treating the alloy can give it the added toughness needed by these industries.

It can also be used to seal valve plate springs for valve plates, shafts and valve shafts, and sea water pumps. Additionally, it is widely used in continuous production of paper products to separate paper strips from rollers.

This material is well suited to valves, stems and internals in these environments because of its excellent corrosion resistance. MONEL alloy 400 can also be used for screens, housings, filters, piping, and fittings for seawater service.

Benefits of Copper Wires Compared to Iron Wires

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Since copper wire cables have a high electrical conductivity, they are the most popular choice for electrical wiring. Despite copper’s high conductivity, it is not needed to heat it up too much to transfer electricity through it. Wires of this type are used as the primary component by the cable industry to create several different types of wires. To name a few, copper is used to manufacture tinsel wire, underwater winding wire, copper strip, special cable, and control cable. A number of other equipment and instruments are also produced using copper.

The additional metal needed to produce a power cord is iron. PVC, which is utilized in both coated and insulated PVC wire formed from this metal, is the most common plastic used to coat electrical wires. In addition to being significantly more fire resistant, less durable, and more inexpensive, it offers good insulating properties.

Today, wires made from these metals are the most preferred metals for residential and commercial wiring. Copper has a number of features that make it stand out from other metals, including its flexibility and resistance to metal depletion. A very practical way to shape and size them is through drawing, thanks to the metal’s malleability and durability. Additionally, copper wire cables are able to withstand any climatic condition, from extreme cold to intense heat.

Braided wire is commonly used as a flexible link in electric appliances, storage batteries, and electric stoves. They are made from multiple-threaded circular copper wire that is tinned for flexibility and is of the highest quality. An electrical resistance of relatively low DC is provided by copper wire braided with a DC electrical resistance of copper. Apart from being corrosion-resistant, copper strips are also used in automatic machines to maximize production and minimize electricity consumption. Manufacturers of copper strips provide customized strips based on customer requirements. Bare copper strip serves as a valuable raw material for numerous industries and is most suitable for areas with highly salinized soil.

Copper and iron-based electric power cables are widely used for electricity delivery. Low voltage electrical cables called copper braided wires are created by wrapping copper foil strands around textile cores or by covering them in PVC. Copper wire is offered in a variety of shapes and sizes due to the country’s growing need for it. Copper wires are frequently utilized for both home and business electrical products, demonstrating their importance all over the world. Due to the rise in demand for copper wires, there have been notable rises in the number of copper wire suppliers globally.

What are the benefits of Silver-coated copper wires in electrical applications?

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Any economy needs electricity as its fundamental component. You won’t ever experience problems with short circuits or other electrical issues if your home or place of business has an effective wire system. The most frequent reason for explosions in households and diverse sectors is short circuits. The best wires for properly conducting electricity are those with a copper core. Using copper wires instead of other metal wires has a number of advantages. We are all aware of copper’s many benefits, such as high flexibility, corrosion resistance, thermal conductivity, ease of installation, solderability, etc. These copper wires‘ strength is increased when they are coated in silver (Ag).

Silver-coated copper wires have several advantages for electrical applications.

Conductivity of electricity: Better conductivity is the primary goal of any metal-made wires. When selecting metal wire for an industrial application, it is crucial to keep certain factors in mind. A good energy flow through the cables indicates quality construction and the genuine use of premium materials. This is very beneficial in preventing short circuits and saving several lives. It is why silver is added to the copper layer to improve conductivity over copper alone.
Thermal Conductivity: It refers to a metal’s capacity to conduct heat. High thermal conductivity is crucial in an electrical system to prevent heat loss, especially in terminations and connections. Because silver has the highest thermal and electrical conductivity of any metal, its coating with copper helps to improve its thermal conductivity. When combined, copper and silver are more effective at preventing heat loss in a variety of application areas.
Corrosion Protection: Although copper is a good corrosion resistor, it cannot completely prevent corrosion over an extended period of time. It can be made more durable and powerful to withstand corrosion for a long time by adding another layer of protection. Wires with a silver coating are less likely to tarnish and become damaged. In other words, silver can withstand corrosion more effectively and serves as a barrier to prevent the wires from rusting.
Ductility: The capacity to beat metal to extract fine wires out of it is known as ductility. Its capacity to be stretched into fine wires distinguishes it. In metalworking, it is crucial that the wires are simple to break or split. Even though copper has good ductile qualities on its own, adding a layer of silver can make it easier for it to draw even monatomic wires.

Conclusion

The strong conductivity and affordable cost of these silver-coated copper wires, which do not put a strain on your wallet, are the key factors contributing to their appeal. So, be prudent and make informed choices before investing your money.

What should be kept in mind while making an Electrical Copper Wire!

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Electrical copper wires play a pivotal role in guiding and shaping the industrial development of any state. Therefore, it becomes imperative for manufacturing units to keep in mind the quality and durability of these wires.

Electricity has become a synonym for the industrial and economic development of the country. The demand for a 24X7 power supply has increased the pressure on PSUs to generate and transmit power to all the households.

This could be surmised from a simple fact that India’s production of electricity was 1362 MW in the year 1947 which has boosted to 267 GW as per data collected in March 2015. The per capita electricity consumption has also gone up from a mere 16.3 KWh in the year of independence to 1010 KWh in the year 2015 according to a research paper published in the journal of Indian Electrical & Electronics Manufacturers’ Association (IEEMA).

The impetus for transforming all sectors of our economy, namely, Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary could be augmented by selecting a proper type of electrical copper wire. This could make our machines and engines more energy sufficient.

What is an electrical copper wire?

It is an assemblage of electric grade copper in a ductile form having a protective covering of an insulator which also binds these conductors. These cables are used to transmit current (I). The protective sheath is used to isolate the conductors from other things which might result in loss due to electric short circuits or other fatal accidents and loss of power.

Electrical power cables come in myriad sizes and varieties depending upon the use. Insulated copper wires or any other power cables could be divided into three parts as follows:-

Conductors drawn in wires
Insulation
Protective covering for external interventions

Following factors are taken into consideration in the making of copper wires:-

Voltage
Current carrying capacity
Thickness and quality of insulation
The cross-sectional size of the copper wire
Resistance
Temperature
Exposure to chemicals
Exposure to water or sunlight
Mechanical durability

Copper wires that are directly buried deep underground and exposed like wires used in transmitting current may have a metal armor in a form of a light but strong wire mesh that is wrapped around the wire to make it durable. The wire mesh is ideally made of steel or Aluminium. They are designed in such a way that despite the fact they are connected with earth wire, they don’t carry current in them.

Stranded copper and aluminum is widely used for making electrical wires. The cable may contain an extra insulated conductor for neutralizing the circuit and earth connections. Some electric wires that are used outdoors may be devoid of any protective covering or sheath. If the cable is made of stranded copper wires, they are necessarily enclosed in a sheath.

The materials used for protective sheaths are determined on the basis of their resistance to following things:-

Water
Underground pressure
Oil
Chemicals
Sunlight
High temperatures

There is a need to produce copper wires keeping these in mind because the growth of our economy depends on the proper functioning of power supplies.

Copper – Much More Than Just Bare Strips and Bunched Wires

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Ever saw mother offering sweet holy water to sun god from a reddish brown pot, or observed your grandmother admonishing about drinking water kept in a particular jar or heard of centuries old culture of throwing coins into holy rivers? In India, one must have come across the paraphernalia of the pundit and him recommending someone to wear a ring to please a certain god. Behold! Here comes the mighty Copper- the king of metals, the polymath. It is very adventurous to ascribe an adjective meant to glorify a human being. But, copper deserves without an ounce of doubt. It pleases gods, it could be adorned as a jewelry and above all it’s good for rivers and your health. What else do we need! Copper has been crowned as the first metal to be extracted and used for engineering purposes. Initially, it was used by Mesolithic man around 6000 B.C. for making basic tools, weapons and vessels.

Copper is a metal which is not highly reactive. It slowly reacts with oxygen to form a platina which stops corrosion further. It has high thermal and electrical conductivity which makes it an ideal material to use in the electrical field. These properties of copper are incorporated in myriad ways, two amongst them are, namely, bare copper strips and bunched copper wire. Bare copper strip could be used in defense, hydro power projects, ship building, electrical conductors etc. In industrial applications, it could be used in automatic machines which reduces the production costs. As a less reactive metal, it becomes most suitable for the terrains which have high salt content in their soil. Its replacement rate is also very low, making it feasible and reliable.

Copper wires, whether solid or bunched, are accommodated in a wide range of products. They are literally everywhere i.e. in your earphones, fans, coolers, juicers, circuit boards etc. you name them and the coppered genie is already there! And it’s not at all exaggeration but simple truth.

Bunched copper wires provide flexibility. Copper in bunched wire form is extensively exploited in areas of where motion is explicitly required. It is a metal filled with paradoxes as it is soft yet ductile and strong. This could be ascertained from the fact that earphones complete more than 365 days despite being subjected to the throes of purgatory!

Copper – A Highly Diverse Metal for Humanity

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Copper: Ubiquitous, Tremendously

There is no shortage of copper in our everyday life. As a matter of fact, there are very few spheres where copper – and, in particular, copper wire – does not play at least a small part in making things work.

Let us take, for example, the prevalence of electricity. Life as we know it would grind to a complete stop in a matter of minutes if the life line of electricity were to be cut off for some reason. Since the entire system of power provision runs on the infrastructure made of metals and plastics that are manufactured to be above certain standards. Copper wire falls under such strictly monitored infrastructure, since it would not be practical to let any quality of copper wire be relied upon to deliver power to homes, factories and workplaces.

Even the simplest electrical and electronic devices use one form of copper or another, and even where aluminum has replaced or supplanted copper, we can be sure that copper still holds its ground in the majority of sectors where it has traditionally been used.

There is, like said above, virtually no area of modern life that is untouched by copper, whether in wire form or not. Its ductility and malleability have long been considered excellent by any standards of human usage, right from making utensils and tools in the early days of human civilization to the most advanced supercomputers that are defeating human players at the game of Go.

Copper Wire: Thinned & Tinned!

Now, just because copper is a versatile, useful, workable (in terms mentioned earlier, i.e. malleable and ductile) and above all, conductive, this list of good characteristics does not automatically mean it can be used as it exists (or has been used earlier) in all situations. Certain specific applications require different characteristic of materials than just plain old copper.

Enter the advantage of pairing or mixing two or more metals into one alloy – and sometimes, just putting them together structurally, without any chemical interaction between the two (or three, or four, or more).

The most important quality that we can seek to impart to copper, as useful as it is, is to ensure it remains in prime shape throughout the life of the component it has been used. Tin is the material that can be used (and has been already) to make tinned copper wire, which makes the wire resistant to corrosion from humidity, which is quite a huge factor in tropical climates such as ours. As an added advantage, tinned copper wire also makes it easy to solder those tricky little components that make electronics tick.

Suffice to say, copper wire, and especially tinned copper wire, has enabled more than what could have been achieved using just plain old copper – not to demean copper in any way: it is an unimaginably useful metal for humans!

Fascinating Attributes of Power Cable and Fiber Optics

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When more than one stripped copper wires are to be used for conducting electrical current over a distance, we need to use a power cable for safe and effective transmission of electrical power. These cables are also known as electrical cables and vary in terms of sizes, applications, configuration and efficiency.

Any electrical cable is made by combining two or more copper or glass wire components and an insulating shield. Individual shielding of copper wires is essential if the cables are going to transmit high voltages. Common shielding of wires protects the entire cable from environmental hazards and also offers added insulation. These jackets are usually produced by using synthetic polymers.

Major types of electrical cables

Pairs of insulated copper wires are twisted around each other for producing twisted pair power cables. These are commonly used for wiring or cabling applications in telephone as well as Local Area Networks. Individual copper wires in these cables are color coded and the insulation enables prevention of cross-talk or external noise.

Coaxial power cable has a dielectric insulator that covers a copper plated core and the layer of insulator is shielded by a copper shield that is in a woven form. The entire configuration is enclosed inside a polymer sheath. These are designed for catering to multiple applications including television networks, and video or audio networking equipment.

Power cables in high voltage electrical transmission are shielded for prevention of interference of external power frequencies or radio signals. There can one or more insulated wires inside a shielding that is generally of woven braids or aluminum Mylar foils.

Flat twin or ribbon power cable is another form of electrical cable that consists of parallel insulated wires to facilitate concurrent transmission of multiple data and signals. Ribbon electric cables are extensively used for connecting network devices. One can also find these cables being used in computers for connecting core components of Central Processing Unit with motherboard.

Growing use of fiber optics

Fiber glass wire is the favorite choice of engineers for Information Technology related applications. These are popularly known as fiber optic wires or cables. Unlike copper power cable, fiber optic cables are capable of transmitting light and are immune to interferences of electromagnetic fields. Fiber optic cables are used for greater security as well as reliability in an environment that involves high voltages.

Transmission of digital information via fiber optic cables happens by conversion of digital signals into light pulses for transmission across the glass fibers. As soon as the light pulses reach their destination, these are converted back into digital signals.

Transmission of signals through fiber optics is significantly faster due the use of light pulses. It is possible to transmit signals of multiple wavelengths simultaneously since these do not interfere with each other.

Emergence of fiber optics has facilitated faster access of internet. It is also used in manufacturing of High Definition televisions to boost quality of picture and audio signals. Since these are capable of handling higher volumes of data, fiber optic cable can easily replace copper power cable.