PVC cable is one of the most common cables in this area.

However, many people may feel confused about its material.Think about it, can you identify each type of PVC cable and clarify its specific applications? It turns out that lots of people know very little about polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cables and wires.

Currently, there are many PVC cable manufacturers producing different types of PVC cables. Therefore, you have a wide variety of PVC-type cables. If you decide to buy PVC wires, you must be sure that you know all the basic information. 

If you fail to obtain all the necessary details about PVC cables, it can result in the wrong cable or wire selection. 

Now, read this article, and you will get all the information you need, and it serves as a guide to help you to choose the right PVC cables.

What is PVC Cable?

First, you need to know what PVC cable is.

PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride. Only if the cable jacket is polyvinyl chloride material, we can refer it as PVC cable.

PVC cable is currently used in a wide variety of electrical applications because its excellent properties. 

Next, let's talk about main characteristics of PVC.

The most notable properties include chemical resistance, water resistance, heat resistance, robustness, elasticity and flexibility. 

Due to its impeccable properties, PVC has been used to manufacture several cables with specific PVC cable specifications.

Currently, PVC wires are used in general household wiring, household application wiring, and internal circuit wiring, among others. 

Nonetheless, you must keep in mind that different PVC-coated cables are suitable for certain specific purposes. 

For example, 2.5 mm PVC cable is ideal for internal circuit wiring and outlet power, while 4 mm PVC coated wire cable is ideal for high power ring power and plugs. 

The chances are that you may find it difficult to distinguish the different types of PVC cables. 

Therefore, you can ask help from the wire supplier when purchasing PVC insulated cables.

What Is the Use of PVC Cable?

PVC cables have good performance due to their versatility, high tensile strength and impeccable flexibility.

So, they can be used in a variety of electrical wiring applications, including appliance wiring, internal circuit wiring, and home wiring. 

However, you should know that there are several PVC-type cables. Each type of cable has its own specific purpose. 

When purchasing PVC cables, you must ensure that the type of cable you choose meets your specific needs. 

There are two types of PVC insulated cables: indoor cables and outdoor cables.

If you plan to do some outdoor wiring, it's best to choose PVC armored cables. 

This type of cable can withstand a variety of external adversities, including attack from rodents and UV rays from the sun. 

Unfortunately, most people tend to focus on the price of PVC cables rather than their intended use. 

So they ended up buying cheap cables for indoor use, but they intend to use it for outdoor use. 

Frankly, it's expensive in the long run because they have to replace the cables regularly. 

Regardless of price, you're always better off choosing a PVC cable that's sized to meet your specific needs.

What Is XLPE PVC Cable?

People often hesitate about how to choose between XLPE and PVC insulated cables.

XLPE is a cross-linked polyethylene material commonly used for armored cable insulation. 

In most cases, you have to choose between using XLPE cable or PVC cable. In fact, some cables are made of both XLPE and PVC. 

XLPE armored PVC cable is a good example of XLPE PVC cable. The cable has XLPE insulation and PVC liner and cable jacket.

If you plan to do some outdoor wiring or direct burial, you should use XLPE PVC cable. 

The combined properties of PVC and cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) materials allow this type of cable to withstand a variety of external adversities, including UV light and water exposure. 

Nonetheless, it is advisable to consider other options such as CU SWA PVC cables depending on your needs. 

XLPE and PVC cables are very expensive. So, it would do you good, if you consider carefully before making a decision. You'd better consult a PVC cable specialist.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of PVC Wires?

All PVC power cables have the same characteristics, such as high tensile strength, good electrical conductivity and easy connection. 

As mentioned before, it is best to address the pros and cons of PVC wire or cable individually. 

There are several types of PVC insulated cables that perform certain functions. 

To get a clear grip of the pros and cons of a particular PVC cable, you have to look at it by yourself. 

For example, the most commonly recognized advantage of PVC single-core cable is its high current rating. 

The same cannot be said for other types of PVC wires. You need to think about one question: what type of PVC wire are you going to buy?

Assuming you plan to buy PVC control cables, you don't have to worry about electrolysis or chemical corrosion. 

PVC cables often have advantages in chemical resistance, heat resistance and water resistance. 

Therefore, PVC insulated power cables will come in handy if you plan to do electrical installations near chemicals, water or any heat generating equipment.

Is the PVC Cable UV Resistant and Waterproof?

Generally speaking, PVC cables have good UV resistance, but not excellent. 

Therefore, pure PVC jacketed cables are not recommended for outdoor wiring. 

PVC is relatively UV resistant, but prolonged exposure to UV light can be harmful. 

Over time, the cable loses flexibility and cracks begin to appear on the surface of the cable. 

Outdoor-grade PVC cables are always recommended for outdoor wiring. Outdoor grade PVC shielded cables contain stabilizing compounds added to PVC to make them more UV resistant.

Are you interested in waterproof cables? 

Well, PVC is mostly waterproof, but it depends on how long it stays in the water. 

For example, PVC coated cables can come in contact with water and dry quickly without causing any harm. 

However, if you plan to do an underwater installation, you should not use ordinary PVC cables. Given enough time, water will attack the PVC insulation.