Cables and Conductors: Definition, Types, and Applications

For most people, the words “cable” and “wire” have the same meaning. Although these terms have a lot in common, there are significant differences between them that are important to understand when choosing electrical equipment.

Wire: Definition and Types

Wire (or electrical wire) is a conductor of electric current that can consist of one or several insulated or non-insulated strands. Strands are mainly made of copper or aluminum. For greater reliability, the wire often has a multi-wire strand, which is harder to break.

Types of Wires:

1. Non-insulated wires: The simplest but most dangerous. They are often made of aluminum and are used for overhead power lines.
2. Insulated wires:
   • Winding wires: Used in electric motors and arc welding machines. Made of copper or, more rarely, aluminum, insulation can be enamel or paper.
   • Mounting wires: Mainly copper with polyethylene insulation, used for transmitting current inside electrical appliances.
   • Installation wires: Copper or aluminum with thick and high-quality insulation, used for laying electrical wiring in buildings.

Before purchasing wires, it is recommended to consult with specialists. The IFEC online store offers a wide selection of cables and wires at some of the lowest prices in Ukraine.

Cable: Definition and Types

Cable is also a conductor of electric current but more powerful. It consists of several insulated conductors protected by a common sheath.

Popular Types of Cables:

• VVGng cable: Has a copper conductor, insulation, and sheath made of polyvinyl chloride plastic.
• PVS wire: Also consists of a copper conductor, insulation, and PVC sheath.

Types of Cables and Their Applications

The modern market offers many types of cables, each with its purpose:

1. Power cables: Designed for transmitting and distributing high-power current, used for electrifying homes and businesses.
2. Wiring cables: Used for laying permanent lighting systems and power lines.
3. Telephone cables: Used for laying subscriber lines.
4. Information transmission cables: Used for building information networks and transmitting information signals (TV cables, internet cables, USB).
5. Special cables: For transmitting current and signals in special conditions (high or low temperatures, humidity). Distinguished by increased resistance to damage.

Cables are additionally classified by the number of conductors, the composition of conductors (copper, aluminum, etc.), the presence and type of insulation, flexibility, and type of connection (movable, stationary).

Before choosing a cable, visit the IFEC store website. Here you can purchase goods directly from the warehouse, wholesale or retail, at a competitive price with fast delivery throughout Ukraine.

Advantages of Cable

Cable is a reliable way to transmit current and information. Thanks to the protective sheath, the cable can be used in almost any condition. One cable can distribute electricity between several devices.

Advantages of Wire

Wire is simple to use. To connect several wires, it is enough to twist the exposed ends of the strands and secure them with terminals, then wrap them with insulation. Wire is indispensable for distributing electric current throughout an apartment or house. It is cheaper than cable and widely used in the production of electrical appliances.

The IFEC online store will help you choose the best cables and wires that meet your needs, ensuring quality and reliability at a competitive price.