A power cable is used to transfer the electric current from one end to the other. It consists of two or more electrical conductors joined with an over sheath. The sheath also provides protection from outside environmental factors and mechanical stress.
There are different types of power cables and each serves a specific purpose. These include AC power cable and DC power cable. AC power cables are used in residential, commercial and industrial applications to provide alternating current. DC power cables, on the other hand, allow direct current to flow through them. DC power cables are used in automotive applications, telecommunications and high voltage transmission.
Power cords are an essential part of any household or office. They help to connect and run devices such as TVs, laptops, charger cords, lamps and other appliances. They also support power tools such as wet/dry vacs and saws. Choosing the right power cable depends on how much electricity is being used, the length of the cord and whether it will be exposed to harsh environments.
Generally, a power cord can be classified as a standard cord or a multi-conductor cord. A standard power cord has at least two bare copper conductors, while a multi-conductor power cord has multiple stranded conductors. The stranding, insulation and jacket type vary according to the intended usage.
The wire gauge is another important factor in determining the appropriate power cable for an application. Thicker wires can safely carry higher amounts of electricity than thinner ones. The most common wire gauge for power cords is 10 AWG. Thicker gauges are also suitable for longer distances than thinner ones.
Some power cables are designed for permanent use, whereas others are designed for temporary power supply purposes. For example, some power cables are made of high-strength alloy and are bound to a steel messenger wire to create an overhead cable. Others may be bundled inside a thermoplastic sheath and are meant for indoor wiring. This type of cable is commonly known as NM-B wiring or nonmetallic sheathed building cable.
Moreover, some power cables are specifically designed for marine and shipboard applications. They are usually insulated with various materials such as aluminized or tinned aramid fiber. The insulating material helps to prevent abrasion and corrosion on the metal sheaths. They are also resistant to UV rays, which are often present in the environment where the cable is installed.
Typically, these power cables are used in the electric utility, industrial and commercial markets. They are found in diesel-electric locomotives as DLO cables, oil and gas drilling rigs and motor leads, as well as in power supply systems for ships, airfield crossings and other industries. They are also ideal for high voltage transmission in railways. They convert alternating current into direct current for transmission and are also useful in changing batteries in electronic systems.