classification and applications of rubber insulated cables

Rubber cable is rubber-sheathed cable used for insulation to prevent hazards such as shocks or conduction in electric systems. It is used in industries and homes too due to its special properties. Today, rubber cables are available in various designs and compounds such as EPR, silicone, SBR, etc.

 It can also be classified as low voltage, medium voltage, and high voltage. They are also classified on the basis of insulation condition. Rubber cables are widely used due to tensile strength.

The rubber cable is classified as 0GA, 2GA, 4GA, 6GA, 8GA, 10GA, 12GA, 14GA, 15GA, 16GA, 18GA, 20GA, and classic strands. They are classified on the basis of colour-proof tape, PE tape, printing, etc.

Different types of rubber cables are:

Flat Rubber Cable

These cables consist of signals, electrical conductors, power encasing, profiles, etc. These cables are used to taper the layers of extra fillers and defensive in conventional round cables.

Rubber reeling cables

They are used for mobile applications like stackers, large excavators, reclaimers, draglines, etc. These are electric-powered cables.

Round rubber cables

These cables comprise 3 to 4 cores such as EPDM rubber insulation, copper conductor, NBR synthetic rubber outer sheath, filler, etc.

Welding cables

These cables are ideal for humid environments as they comprise resistant insulation. They can also resist substances such as ozone and high-stress level equipment.

Heavy-duty rubber

These cables are supplied for restricted places and are available in single and multi-core. They are ideal for generators, power tools, heavy machinery, etc.

They are also classified as follows:

Mobile rubber cable

They are used for household applications, mobile devices, electric tools, etc. These cables are ideal for AC-rated voltages of 450/750 volts. The models of mobile rubber cables are: YQ, YZ, YC.

YQ Light:

It is used for light mobile equipment as they are soft and do not tolerate external force.

YZ Medium

It is used for different types of mobile devices as they are flexible, easily mobile, and also can endure external mechanical forces.

YC Heavy

It is used for different electric equipment and can endure drag force. It is known for its high elasticity and can endure mechanical force. 

Applications of rubber-insulated cables:

• They are used for several reasons.

• They are used for drum reeling applications, outdoor applications, heavy-duty use such as generators, moving machinery, portable equipment, etc. 

• The cables with medium duty are used for light machines and power tools.

• The light-duty rubber cables are used for outdoor use.

Uses of rubber cable

• The rubber-insulated cables are used for lighting and electric equipment of AC-rated voltage.

• The W-type cables can resist oil and extreme weather.

• The rubber-sheathed cable is used for mining mobile electric equipment and machinery. As these cables are soft, have mechanical endurance, and are resistant to ozone, they can operate at 65 degrees Celsius for a long period.

• The marine power cables are used for general control devices in places such as mobile buildings and ships. They are also used for lighting. These cables are embedded with magnetic interference and anti-radio interference and comprise mechanical strength. They are non-flammable.

• They are also used in the fixed installation of pipes, rail vehicles, closed installation ducts, etc. 

How are rubber cables distinguishable?

Rubber cables are distinguished from other materials due to special features such as flexibility, tensile strength, durability, etc. 

They maintain circuit integrity to prevent electric hazards such as shock or conduction.

They are thermally resistant and can withstand extremely high and low temperatures. The rubber-silicon wire resists 300+ degrees, whereas they can withstand less than 90 degrees too.