The uses and introduction of Power Cables and Wires.

1. Basic Definitions

Power cables and wires are insulated conductive wires used for transmitting electrical energy, distributing power, and conducting current. They consist of a conductor + insulation layer + sheath and are the most fundamental consumables in power systems and equipment distribution.

Simple Distinction:

Wire (Electrical Wire): Generally single-core, with a simple structure, mostly used for indoor wiring, control, and lighting.

Cable (Power Cable): Multi-core, with an outer sheath and armor, resistant to pressure and moisture, mostly used for underground, outdoor, and main power supply in engineering.

2. Main Structural Components

Conductor: Copper / Aluminum, responsible for conducting electricity

Insulation: PVC / XLPE / Cross-linked Polyethylene, prevents leakage and provides insulation and withstands voltage

Shield: Equalizes voltage in high-voltage cables and prevents interference

Armored Layer: Steel tape / Steel wire, protects against pressure, rat bites, and mechanical damage

Outer Sheath: Resists corrosion, is waterproof, and is resistant to aging

3. Core Applications (Application Scenarios)

3-1. Substations & Power Systems

Internal equipment connections in substations, incoming and outgoing lines

High-voltage transmission and distribution lines, busbar interconnections

AIS/GIS secondary and primary power wiring in substations

3-2. Industrial Factories

Power supply for factory workshops, power connections for machinery and equipment

Wiring between control cabinets and distribution boxes

Power supply for large motors, pumps, air compressors, etc.

3-3. Residential and Commercial Buildings

Power wiring for buildings, household decoration wires

Power supply for lighting, sockets, air conditioners, elevators

3-4. Municipal Engineering

Underground pipeline laying, power supply for road street lamps

Main distribution lines for parks and residential areas

3-5. New Energy & Others

Power transmission for photovoltaic and wind power projects

Internal wiring for ships, rail transit, construction machinery

4. Common Categories

By voltage: Low-voltage cables, Medium-voltage cables, High-voltage cables

By material: Copper core, Aluminum core

By structure: Single core, Multi-core, Armored, Non-armored

By application: Power cables, Control cables, Overhead insulated wires, Flame-retardant / Fire-resistant cables

5. Summary of Main Functions

Transmitting electrical energy: Conveying electricity from the power source to devices and terminals

Insulation and safety: Preventing leakage, electric shock, and short circuits

Protecting the lines: Resistant to tension, pressure, corrosion, water resistance, and weather resistance

Distributing power: Power distribution rooms and distribution boxes supply power through branches