Insulation is an important component of wires and cables, protecting them from harmful elements and from coming into contact with other conductors. It also resists electrical leakage and preserves the material of the wire against environmental threats.
Wires and cables are insulated in a variety of materials that are broadly categorised into plastic, fluoropolymers, and rubber. Among the most common types of wire and cable insulation are neoprene and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These cables differ in their characteristics and abilities, and they both have their respective advantages.
Neoprene Cable
Neoprene, also commonly known as Polychloroprene Cable, is a kind of synthetic rubber that is both sunlight-resistant and oil-proof. It is one of the very first synthetic rubbers that were produced with the intent of fulfilling and meeting heavy industrial purposes and requirements.
Because of its durability, neoprene can withstand wear and tear due to its high degree of bending and flexing. It can also work at a temperature as low as -25 degrees Celsius. When it comes to insulating cables that are used in heavy-duty applications, neoprene is considered by many a great choice, as it is resistant to oil, grease, and water.
One of the most popular and preferred types of neoprene cables is the 3 core neoprene cable. As its name suggests, this neoprene cable consists of three wires: a neutral wire, a live wire, and an earth wire. It is commonly used for connecting appliances to power outlet sockets.
PVC Cable
PVC is a type of cable that uses a thermoplastic material called Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) for cable jackets or wire insulation. This cable type is widely utilised in many industries boasting excellent properties, including heat, chemical, and water resistance, aside from its durability, robustness, and versatility.
Although PVC does not exhibit a wide array of thermal characteristics, it nonetheless has the ability to resist acids, oils, abrasion, weathering, sunlight, and heat. Due to these strong physical assets, PVC is considered the ideal jacket for cables that are used for street lighting and direct burial. It is also typically utilised for electronic cables because it is inherently retardant.
Main Difference Between Neoprene and PVC Cables
The main difference between neoprene and PVC cables lies in the intended use and accompanying traits. The most desirable trait of neoprene cables is their resistance to permanent deformation under heat as well as to oxidation and sunlight-induced ageing. Neoprene does not also embrittle at colder temperatures.
On the other hand, those who use PVC cables prefer them for their resistance to acids, oils, abrasion, weathering, sunlight, and heat. PVC jackets are most suitable for street lighting, direct burial, and control cable, whereas neoprene jackets are best used in rugged environments like dredge cables and mine trailing cables.
Get The Most Trusted Industrial Cables From Cable Source
For the best and most high-quality industrial cables in Singapore, Cable Source is among the most reputable cable suppliers you can trust. We offer a wide range of premium cables, spanning from rubber insulated cables and flexible control cables to marine cables and instrumentation cable types in Singapore.
Our rubber insulated cables are particularly top-notch and robust and can withstand harsh environments that involve constant exposure to oil, grease, water, and extreme temperatures. Whether for electric distribution or lighting and emergency systems, our products can provide the durability and resistance necessary for all your wire and cable needs.
To find out more about industrial as well as marine power cables, feel free to get in touch with us today.
