Exploring High Temperature Electrical Wire
Exploring High Temperature Electrical Wire
In settings brimming with rigorous elements and soaring ambient temperatures, the selection of apt cables, specifically high temperature electrical wire, is pivotal to guard against diminished longevity. Deploying wire and cable products in temperatures that exceed their design parameters can hasten costly failures during operation.
Delving into High Temperature Electrical Wire
Characterized typically as wire that thrives at 125°C or above, high temperature electrical wire can also encompass those rated for as low as 90°C. These high-temperature electrical wires, available in single or multi-conductor formats, are usually comprised of a conductor (like annealed, tinned copper or nickel-coated copper) coupled with insulation, and occasionally an outer jacket of fiberglass braid or K-fiber material.
The crux of selecting suitable high-temperature electrical wire lies in its temperature rating and ampacity. The temperature rating signifies the peak enduring temperature of the wire over its lifetime. If a cable's temperature rating falls short for its environment, its longevity may be compromised. Meanwhile, ampacity denotes the maximum current a wire can carry without exceeding its insulation and jacket's heat limits. An undersized cable might overheat under circuit load, breaching its temperature threshold. For expanded insights, Anixter's Wire Wisdom on Wire and Cable Ampacity Rating is a valuable resource.
Standards for High-Temperature Electrical Wire
High temperature electrical wire often aligns with Appliance Wiring Material (AWM) standards per UL 758. Though not "UL Listed," these AWM wires are Recognized Components for UL Listed products. If they're UL Recognized Components, they adhere to UL 758 guidelines, detailed on a UL style page, which includes specifications on gauge size, insulation material, temperature, and voltage ratings. Some styles like UL AWM 3284 may also conform to Canadian standards, like CSA CL1254. Further details are available in Anixter’s Wire Wisdom Understanding and Identifying UL AWM Styles.
Beyond AWM requirements, high temperature electrical wire products may also comply with UL 83A for Fluoropolymer Insulated Wire. UL 83A sets standards for cable construction and performance, including insulation aging and resistance tests.
Varieties of High Temperature Electrical Wire Given the diverse temperature ratings and applications, high-temperature electrical wire is available with various agency approvals, including UL 758, UL 83A, or CSA standards.
Types of High Temperature Electrical Wire
Silicone Products: SRG (150°C-200°C) & SRK (150°C-200°C) – Typically used for motor leads or electrical equipment wiring, available in 600V. Extruded Teflon Products: FEP (200°C), ETFE/Tefzel (200°C), PFA (250°C), and PTFE (250°C) – Suited for electric heaters, appliances, and electronic components, available in 300V, 600V, or 1000V. Taped Teflon Products: TGGT (250°C) – Ideal for wiring in ovens and cooking equipment, available in 300V or 600V. Mica Products: MG (450°C/538°C non-UL) & High-performance Mica (2400°F short term, 450°C/538°C non-UL) – Used in ovens and electrical heaters, available in 300V or 600V.
Applications of High-Temperature Electrical Wire
High-temperature electrical wire features predominantly in environments with elevated temperatures and harsh conditions. Common applications include motor leads, appliance wiring, lighting fixtures, and equipment in steel mills and chemical plants. Selecting the right high-temperature electrical wire depends on the application, considering factors like UL listings, cable size, and environmental conditions.
