PVC stands for Polyvinylchloride.
Understanding PVC Cables
PVC cable refers to a cable that utilizes Polyvinylchloride as its insulation or sheathing material. Polyvinylchloride is a highly versatile thermoplast material widely used across diverse application areas within the plastics industry.
PVC in the Wire and Cable Industry
Due to its properties, Polyvinylchloride is a popular choice for manufacturing electrical wires and cables. It serves effectively as insulation (covering the conductors) or as an outer sheath (protecting the entire cable bundle).
Key aspects of PVC usage in cables include:
- Material Type: PVC is a thermoplast, meaning it can be repeatedly softened by heating and hardened by cooling, making it easy to process during manufacturing.
- Variations: The wire and cable industry doesn't use a single type of PVC. Various types of PVC are employed, each with specific properties tailored for different cable applications (e.g., flexibility, temperature resistance, flame retardancy).
- Standardization: To ensure safety and performance consistency, PVC parameters for these different mixtures are specified by official bodies. This includes National (VDE) and International (IEC) Standards Authorities.
Here's a quick overview:
| Abbreviation | Full Name | Material Type | Primary Use in Cables |
|---|---|---|---|
| PVC | Polyvinylchloride | Thermoplast | Insulation, Sheathing |
By using specific types of PVC governed by international standards, manufacturers can produce cables suitable for a wide range of environments and applications, from household wiring to industrial power cables.
