A power cable is an electric wire used to transport electricity from one location to another. It can be installed as permanent wiring within a building, buried in the ground, run overhead, or exposed. It can be made with a number of different conductor materials, including copper and aluminum. The length of the conductors can vary as well, depending on how the power cable is used.

A standard power cable has at least two bare copper conductors that are usually insulated with either a thermoplastic or a nonmetallic sheath, and an overall jacket. This design is best suited for applications that require the ability to withstand abrasions, corrosive materials, and other environmental hazards.

Several factors determine the lifespan of a power cable, including its stranding class and insulation type, overall sheath and filler material, jacket and cover thicknesses, and the underlying construction. These can make the difference between a high-quality power cable that will last for many years or a low-quality one that will only last a few months.

For example, an aluminum-insulated copper wire is generally more durable than a stranded copper-insulated copper wire. The sheath and cover materials can also affect the life of a power cable, so it is important to choose a power cable that matches your intended use and environment.

The stranding of the conductors is important to the performance and safety of the power cable, so it should be selected carefully. Some power cables have a higher stranding than others, so it is necessary to understand the stranding classification for each type of cable before you purchase one.

There are also a variety of other factors that impact the longevity of the cable. The style of installation can significantly reduce the lifespan of the cable, so it is important to ensure that your power cable is installed correctly.

It is recommended that you check the cable for damage before you install it, and to keep in mind that improperly securing a power cord can cause tripping hazards. In addition, it is essential to keep your power cord secure from tampering or unintended withdrawal by children.

You may want to consider purchasing a plug cover, which is a non-conducting device that fits into a wall socket to prevent little ones from tampering with the plug. In addition, you can also purchase a retainer, which is a mechanical device that holds the connector in proper alignment with the outlet and prevents it from being pulled out.

These devices may be available for free or a small fee. They can be purchased at a local hardware store or online.

Various plug types and socket configurations are used worldwide to allow electrical products to be connected in multiple markets. The governing electrical standards in each region differ, so it is important to know which type of power plug your product needs and where it can be found.

The cable that is attached to your computer, monitor, printer and other peripheral devices provides the main source of electrical current for these equipments. It is commonly referred to as a power cord, mains cable or flex.