What Are The Differences Between PVC Cables And XLPE Cables?

In the fields of power and communications, PVC cables and XLPE cables are two common cable types. There are some significant differences in their structure, performance and application, but many people may not be able to tell them apart. This article will take you to understand PVC cables and XLPE cables and their differences.

1. Material composition:

PVC cable:

PVC cables use polyvinyl chloride as the insulating material, and the outer layer usually uses PVC as the sheath material. PVC cable is relatively simple and low cost.

XLPE cable:

XLPE cable uses cross-linked polyethylene as the insulating material, and its insulation layer has higher heat resistance and voltage resistance. The outer sheath is usually made of polymer materials, such as PVC, PE, etc.

2. Thermal performance:

PVC cable:

PVC cables have relatively low heat resistance and are generally suitable for low-temperature environments. They are easily affected by high temperatures, resulting in a decrease in insulation performance.

XLPE cable:

Because XLPE cable uses cross-linked polyethylene as the insulating material, it has high heat resistance and can maintain stable electrical performance in high temperature environments.

3. Electrical performance:

PVC cable:

The insulation performance of PVC cable is relatively average, the electrical characteristics are relatively low, and it is suitable for general low-voltage power transmission.

XLPE cable:

XLPE cable has good insulation performance and high electrical characteristics. It is suitable for medium and high-voltage power transmission and is widely used in urban power grids and industrial fields.

4. Weather resistance:

PVC cable:

PVC cables are prone to aging in harsh natural environments such as sunlight and ultraviolet rays, and their weather resistance is relatively poor.

XLPE cable:

XLPE cables are more widely used outdoors and exposed to natural environments due to their better heat resistance and anti-aging properties.

5. Comparison of application areas:

PVC cable:

Suitable for power transmission under low voltage and low temperature conditions, such as wires and cables inside buildings, household appliances, etc.

XLPE cable:

It is suitable for power transmission under medium and high voltage conditions and is widely used in urban power grids, industrial and mining enterprises, power stations and other occasions that require high electrical performance.

There are obvious differences between PVC cables and XLPE cables in terms of material composition, thermal properties, electrical properties, weather resistance, etc. When you purchase cables, the choice should be based on the specific application environment and power transmission needs. In general low-voltage and low-temperature conditions, PVC cables are low-cost and suitable; while in medium-, high-voltage, and high-temperature environments, XLPE cables are more suitable.

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