Why is Armoured cable used?

Armored cable is now a crucial component of reliable and safe electrical systems.

This particular cable stands out in underground facilities in highly stressed industrial environments because it can withstand mechanical and environmental destruction.

What is it that makes these cables unique? Why are they used so frequently in control and power transmission systems? This complete guide will break down all you require to know, starting with the types and construction of armored cables and their uses, as well as the benefits and the most frequently asked questions.

What is an Armoured Cable?

Armoured cables are electric cables designed with an outer layer of protection, typically aluminum or steel, that guards against physical damages. The armoring of cables ensure they can withstand challenging environments without compromising either their safety or performance. Sometimes armouring also serves as a current carrying component for short circuits.

In contrast to standard cable, Armoured cables can be directly buried beneath or installed in industrial zones or outdoor settings with no need of additional security.

When Do We Use Armoured Cables?

Armored cables become crucial when protection and durability are the top priority.

Examples of typical use scenarios are:

• Underground installation: It prevents the damage caused by rock movement, soil movement, or even accidental digging.
• Outdoor wiring: Protects wires from ultraviolet radiation, rain, and rodents.
• Industrial sites: Massive machinery movements and mechanical impacts.
• Commercial complexes: It Reduces fire danger, particularly when you use LSZH sheathing.

Armoured cables are often the ideal solution when exposed to mechanical strain or harsh environmental conditions, providing added protection.

What Is the Difference Between Unarmoured and Armoured Cables?

The most crucial distinction is that there is a metallic armor layer.

Unarmoured cables are not reinforced physically and are usually employed in areas of protection such as conduits or walls.

Armoured cables come with a metal layer that is resistant to damage caused by impacts or corrosion. It also prevents interference.

The extra cost of Armoured cable is justified by its greater quality and safety features, which makes it a more long-term investment.

Understanding the Armouring of Cable: AWA vs SWA

There are two kinds of armored cables employed in electrical wiring:

1. Aluminium Wire Armour (AWA)

   Only when used in single-core cables, does AWA prevent the formation of electromagnetic fields, which could cause overheating. This is due to the fact that aluminium is not magnetic.

2. Steel Wire Armour (SWA)

   Ideal for multi-core cables, SWA has a strong mechanical strength. The opposing currents of multi-core systems eliminate magnetic effects, which makes SWA secure to use.

Both have the same purpose, which is protection through mechanical means. However, the choice is based on the core cable configuration.

What is the Construction of Armoured Cable?

The structure that is understood by Armoured cable provides clarity about its durability and strength:

• The conductor is typically made of Class 2 plain copper/aluminium that has been stranded.
• Insulation: (Cross-linked polyethylene) is favored due to its dielectric's high temperatures and strength.
• The bedding acts as an insulation cushion for armor.
• Armour The option is either AWA or SWA, depending on the type of application. Generally SWA for multicore cables and AWA for single core cables.
• Sheath made from PVC, PE or LSZH. It offers the ability to resist UV as well as termites.
• Dynamic Cables Limited incorporates additional options like anti-termite additives and UV stabilizers into the sheath to guarantee longevity over time.

Applications of Armoured Cable

Here's the place where the armoured control cable or power cable is typically used:

1. Underground Installations

   They are ideal for use in direct burials and offer protection from impact, moisture, and rodents.

2. Industrial and Construction Sites

   The harsh conditions of heavy duty require the durability of Armoured cables to avoid damage to power and power supply.

3. Power Distribution Systems

   Many factories and industrial complexes are in factories where continuous power is required.

4. Control Systems

   Control cable with Armoured protection guarantees a secure transmission of signals in control of automation and machinery.

5. Outdoor Electrical Wiring

   It can withstand rain, sunlight, and temperature changes without dropping performance.

Benefits of Using Armoured Cable

There are several distinct advantages to the use of Armoured cable over conventional wiring

1. Superior Mechanical Strength

   The armoring of cables guarantees they can withstand crushing forces, impacts, and pulling.

2. High Temperature Resistance

   Due to XLPE insulation and robust structure, armoured cables can be used in various high-temperature conditions.

3. Reduced Electromagnetic Interference

   Particularly important for delicate controls, the shielding helps prevent the disruption of signals.

4. Longevity and Durability

   The construction and the materials extend the lifespan of the cables.

5. Versatility

   It is ideal indoors and outdoors and allows for flexibility across different applications.

6. Cost-Effective in the Long Run

   Despite the slightly more expensive price of the Armoured cable and the lower maintenance, the longer life and increased safety translate to substantial savings over time.

How Much is the Price of Armoured Cable?

The price of the cable with armor is based on a variety of variables:

• Types of armor (AWA as well as SWA)
• The number of cores
• The length of the cable and its thickness
• Materials for insulation and sheathing
• Standards for certification and brand recognition

We are Dynamic Cables Limited, aiming to provide competitive pricing on Armoured cables without sacrificing quality. Contact our sales department for latest prices and bulk purchase discounts.

What is Aluminium Armoured Cable?

Aluminum Armoured cable is particularly beneficial for single-core applications in which magnetic fields are to be eliminated. It's light, non-magnetic, and economical.

The benefits of this include:

• Eddy's current loss is reduced
• Weight reduction for more comfortable handling

Although it might not have the same strength of tensile like steel, it's a great choice for low- to medium voltage applications.

Why Choose Dynamic Cables for Your Armoured Cable Needs?

As one of the top Indian cable producers, Dynamic Cables Limited is synonymous with the highest-quality, durable and tested Armoured cables and solutions. Our cables have been certified by the industry and are designed to meet the needs of the latest infrastructure and high-end applications.

Conclusion

In terms of protecting the electrical system, armoured cable is unrivaled in performance, safety as well as longevity. It's suitable for installation in underground areas, industrial zones and control systems, the cables can stand the tests of pressure and time. Although the cost of an Armoured cable might be higher at first but its lower maintenance costs and extended life span make it an investment worth making.

Choose a reputable manufacturer such as Dynamic Cables Limited to ensure the projects you run securely and safely using high-quality protected cable.

FAQs

1. What is the reason for making use of an Armoured cable?

   The principal goal is to shield the cable from mechanical damages or moisture as well as environmental elements to ensure the safety of a continuous power supply. Sometime armour is also used as a return path in case of short circuit.

2. Is the Armoured cable made of aluminum superior to steel armor?

   Single core cables to be used in AC system are armoured with Aluminium. Armoured cable made of aluminum is ideal for single-core cables, as it is less susceptible to magnetic field issues, whereas steel armour is stronger for multi-core configurations.

3. Where is the armoured control cable most often utilized?

   It is used primarily in power stations and automation lines, where the security and integrity of signals are crucial.

4. What factors affect the price of an Armoured cable?

   Type of cable, material, the number of cores, the type of insulation, and the manufacturer are all factors in the determination of cost of Armoured cables.