low-temperature cable also pronounced as cold temperature cables or low temperature resistant cables are those cables which work effectively in very cold weather conditions. The structural, electrical and mechanical properties of these cables are preserved even at low temperature which guarantees the reliability and safety during power and signal transmission. We will explain how to pick high quality low-temperature cable.
What factors should be considered when choosing low temperature cables?
1. Determine the use of the environment
- Minimum operating ambient temperature: When choosing a cable, the minimum operating temperature must be taken into outline, since this is important in the choice of a low-temperature-resistant cable.
- Features of the environment: Consider whether the cable is required to work in special environments such as humidity, insects and ants, high salinity, ultraviolet radiation, etc., which will affect the choice of materials for the cable.
2. Electrical parameters
- Nominal voltage: Confirm the adequacy to the requirements of the application of the cable in respect to the rated voltage.
- Current and power: Carrying capacities of the cable should be able to integrate expected current and power levels.
3. Mechanical properties
- Bending radius: Depending on a cable in use, an appropriate bending radius can be selected for the intended purpose.
- Tensile strength: The cable has to encompass enough tensile strength since it is for a mobile or semi-mobile application.
- Flexibility: The cable will need to be able to maintain a set degree of flexibility in a low temperature atmosphere.
4. Installation Conditions
- Laying temperature: This relates to the lowest temperature at which the cable can be laid. This temperature must be higher than the embrittlement temperature of the material not to damage a cable in the course of placement.
- Length requirement: Based on real use, assess where the application is involved the how long the cable should be to ensure it is not too long or too short.
5. Material selection
- Thermal insulation materials: for instance TPE, EPR, SiR etc. These are low-temperature flexible materials with good aging resistance.
- Material for sheath: such fibers include CPE, CSPE, TPE-PVC alloy, etc. Materials that are oil, fuel and solvent resistance and remain flexible at low temperatures.
6 Supplier selection
- Reputable Suppliers and quality: go for the suppliers with good reputation and quality assurance to avoid non standard cables and meet the nations standard for cables.
- After-sales service: Moreover, the suppliers should be appraised based on the after sales service provision in such a way that during the application of the cable, timely technical support and maintenance will be provided.
Common cold temperature cable product series
1. PVC Low Temperature Cable: This cable is an insulation system that contains polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as the primary ingredient and is suitable for usage in a temperature of -20° C and above. It is well suited in interior and exterior low-temperature environment and more so fixtures which perform well in cold climatic conditions.
2. Polyethylene Low Temperature Cable: This cable has polyethylene (PE) as the outer layer and as a result of this, it is flexible and has a high resistance even at cold temperatures. It finds extensive use in transmission and distribution networks in areas with coastal, mountainous and heavy snow environments where optimal working effects have to be retained.
3. XLPE Low Temperature Cable: This cable features an insulation structure that incorporates cross linked polyethylene (XLPE), a high performance electrical insulation which can perform well even in the unfavorable climatic temperatures. It is specifically designed for transmission and distribution networks in the northern climates with sever climatic conditions.
4. Rubber Cold Temperature Cable: This cable construction is rubber insulated with rubber material giving the cable a unique flexibility and low temperature resistance characteristics. It is useful for low-temperature applications that require high flexibility. Its function ability guarantees safety in use even in conditions that are hot and need cold temperatures.
5. Low Temperature Cables: Also referred to as cold temperature cables, and ultra cold cables, these cables are suitable for a particular cosystem. Reasons for selection are many, including definition of the temperature range, cold withstand requirements, electrical performance and environmental performance to guarantee enhancement in different applications.
6. Specialty Cold Temperature Cables: From more special insulation materials which include TPE, EPR and SiR, these cables are fashioned to fulfill market needs in metallurgy, power, shipbuilding and automobile industries. The wires are such that they can be purposefully designed to those sensitive application areas where the standard cables are inadequate hence the protection of the installation equipment.
The cold resistance of a cable depends on the materials used and its design. The following materials are commonly used in the manufacture of low temperature cables because of their excellent cold resistance. Learn more about the different material comparison:
| Material | Temperature Range | Flexibility | Chemical Resistance | Key Characteristics |
| PVC | -20℃ to 70℃ | Moderate | Limited | Cost-effective, good insulation properties |
| XLPE | -40℃ to 90℃ | Moderate | Good | Excellent electrical performance in extreme conditions |
| Silicone Rubber | -60°C to 200°C | High | Excellent | Excellent flexibility, retains properties at lowtemperatures, good weather resistance |
| PE | -40℃ to 80℃ | High | Good | Maintains flexibility and pressure resistance at low temps |
| TPE | -40℃ to 120℃ | High | Good | Combines rubber-like properties with thermoplastic ease |
| EPR | -40°C to 90°C | Moderate to High | Excellent | Good thermal stability, often used in industrial applications. |
Practical advice for handling and installation
Preventing damage
Cables should be kept in a controlled environment until installation. This practice helps maintain flexibility. Tools should minimize stress on the cable material. Avoid sharply bending cables.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Do not use excessive force when pulling cables. The force can damage the cable structure. Installers should avoid dragging cables over rough surfaces. Abrasion can weaken the cable jacket.
Regular Maintenance
Regularly check cables for wear and tear. Look for signs of cracking or stiffness. Address problems promptly to prevent malfunctions. Loose connections can lead to operational failures.
Looking for just the right cable manufacturers? Then do not hesitate to try ZW cable range! Whether it’s high-performance low-temperature cables or heat resistant cables, ZW cable range is actively marketed. These cables are made of HMW polyolefin or have a fluoropolymer jacket and are well protected against chemicals, mechanical wear and high temperatures than most standard wiring video cables. The cables are rated for temperatures down to -60°C. It makes them relevant for use in both power and control applications. Additionally these cables are quite small in diameter and are capable of being accommodated in confined areas.
