XLPE cable meaning a type of electrical cable that uses cross-linked polyethylene as its insulation material. The advantages over PVC are:
- Thermal stability: XLPE can withstand conductor temperatures of up to 90°C without deforming or melting, whereas PVC can only withstand up to 70°, making XLPE wire more suitable for industrial environments with high-temperature requirements.
- Better Electrical Properties: XLPE has higher insulation resistance and dielectric strength, which means it can carry higher current for the same conductor size, or a smaller size of XLPE cable can be used for the same load.
- Fire safety: XLPE insulated cable is less likely to catch fire and produces less smoke and toxic gases in a flame than PVC electrical wire, making it preferred for applications where fire safety is a concern, like industrial installations and underground cable networks. In addition, even when exposed to flame, XLPE insulation does not support combustion and will extinguish itself once the flame source is removed. PVC, on the other hand, continues to burn even after the flame source is removed.
- Higher resistance to environment: XLPE insulated wire is more resistant to environmental factors such as UV radiation, chemicals, and oil than PVC cable and has a higher tensile strength.
- Longer Service Life: While PVC has a service life of about 20 to 30 years, XLPE is expected to last 40 to 60 years, so using XLPE reduces long-term maintenance and replacement costs.
xlpe cable vs pvc cable is a common choice dilemma. On the whole, although xlpe is more costly, it contributes to better electrical performance, more reliable connections, and increased fire safety in critical applications.
