Welding Cable Specifications
Welding Cable is a single conductor portable cord typically used in welder leads and power supply applications. Welding cable offers many benefits, but you should know its ratings and proper uses so you can avoid irreparable cable damage and downtime. View
Construction
Welding Cable features a single bare annealed copper conductor that is stranded to provide extreme flexibility. Standard welding cable is generally more flexible than electrical wire or power cables. It is designed with a thermoset jacket for added flexibility and high-temperature resistance. Neoprene and EPDM rubber are the most common jacket materials used in welding wire.
Daily industrial use necessitates a more rugged design, so these cables are available in varying degrees of durability and strength. While these cables are usually offered in black or red, more durable constructions are identifiable by an orange jacket. Standard welding cable is Class K per ASTM B-172 with 30 AWG strands. Class M, the more durable version, has 34 AWG strands. Class M cables feature additional copper and tougher jackets, making them both more expensive and more flexible than Class K cables. When put to the test, many of these cables will withstand exposure to flame, grease, abrasion, tears, and oil.
Ratings and Approvals
Welding cables have a standard maximum temperature rating of +90°C to +105°C. They also typically have a voltage rating of 600V. They are also suitable for use as a battery cable in many applications per UL 558 and UL 583. Allied Wire and Cable's welding cable is also RoHS, REACH, and SAE J1127 compliant.
Applications
Welding cable is often used in demanding applications as a secondary cable for welding tools or as a power cable attached to generators and industrial machinery. Most electric arc-welding tools rely on two separate cables for operation. One cable acts as the primary power source for the device while the other supplies a secondary power source. Welding wire may not power the generator, but it is required for the electrode.
Welding cable also has approval for use in power supply applications up to 600 volts. If you need a cable with a higher voltage rating, DLO Cable or Type W power cable are acceptable replacements. Welding cable is also often used in battery cable applications because it offers more flexibility and toughness.
Protecting Your Cable
When using welding cables, safety measures should be taken to prevent future damage. You should regularly check your cables for imperfections, and make sure to clean off any grease and oil. If cable damage reaches within three feet of the electrode, the welding cable should be replaced.
Now that you’ve learned more about welding cable and its specifications, you’ll be better prepared for future use. Check out Allied University's Welding Cable FAQs for more information or browse our selection of Welding Cable now.