We always complain about bad weather. Is there bad weather? Is it not the wrong clothes that make the weather look bad? That’s why identifying the right materials for cables is necessary, as it helps to guarantee durability due to their resistance to high temperatures. Most cables’ sheath is made of polyvinylchloride (PVC), which is less expensive but resistant to corrosion, high temperatures (over 1000C), and abrasion.
However, for extremely high temperatures, PVC can’t keep up. Depending on the hotness, you are likely to find materials like polyolefin copolymer, polytetrafluoroethylene, silicone, and fluoroethylene propylene. These are some of the materials with the ability to withstand temperatures more than 2000C.
What are the characteristics of a high-temperature resistance cable?
Extreme high temperatures are likely to damage electric cables. To maintain the quality of High temperature-resistant wires, the manufacturers ensure these wires have specific characteristics for their intended applications. Some of the features of high-temperature resistance wires are;
- The cables have insulation voltage.
- They are flame retardant and highly resistant to corrosion
- Most high-temperature resistant wires can work at a high temperature of up to 4000
- Special types of high-temperature-resistant wires can withstand temperatures up to 15000C, depending on their applications.
- The wires’ flexibility in different environments has zero temperature.
What to consider when selecting a high-temperature resistance cable
When selecting a high-temperature resistance cable;
- Consider cable that will withstand maximum operating temperature depending on its application.
- Consider the wire’s maximum current rating or ampacity at maximum temperature. You should note that high-temperature cables have a higher ampacity than standard electrical wires. This allows the high-temperature wires to operate within the high operating temperatures.
- Consider the cable’s level of flexibility and ability to resist abrasion and chemical corrosion.
Common types of high-temperature resistance cable
| High-temperature resistance wire | Characteristics |
| Silicone Insulated Wire | · Withstand temperatures up to 1800C and 2500C at short periods.
· Self-extinguishing and good flame-retardant · Resistant to abrasion · Examples; silicone rubber motor lead (SRML), silicon fixture (SF-2) wire, silicone rubber cable, |
| Teflon Glass Glass Teflon Wire (TGGT) | · Has a Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) insulation
· Withstands temperatures up to 2500C |
| High-Temperature Mica Glass Wire | · Has Mica glass (MG) insulation
· Protects the cable from temperatures up to 4500C |
| Thermocouple Wires | · Withstands high temperatures up to 12600C
· Standard thermocouple types comprise Types E, J, K, N, R, and T. |
Conductor Material
Scientifically, pure copper is likely to be corroded easily at extreme temperatures. A high-temperature resistant cable will have a high-resistant conductor. Among the commonly used conductors for high-temperature applications include;
- Tin-plated copper- It works best for temperatures up to 1800
- Nickel-plated copper- can work for high temperatures up to 4500
- Nickel wire- This conductor can withstand extremely high temperatures (above 4500C).
Applications of high-temperature resistance wires
High-temperature resistance cables have a variety of applications. It depends on the field of application and requirement. Some areas only require temperature resistance of slightly above 2000C. There are others who expect a wire that can withstand extreme temperatures above 10000C.
Some of the fields of application for the high-temperature resistant wires include;
- Electric heaters
- Steel and metallurgy plant
- Extruder and dryers
- Glass and ceramic production
- Plastic molding plants
- Refineries
- Heating and air conditioning technology
- Weld robotic cells
Summary
High-temperature resistance wires can serve you for any application with temperatures exceeding 1500C. If looking for one, consider checking the wire’s characteristics to confirm whether it meets your operating temperature. Consider contacting us with any questions or concerns.