High-voltage cables are defined by their ratings of at least 1000V for alternating currents and 1500V for direct currents. Typically, these types of wires are used for electrical power transmissions due to their ability to handle high currents, both with alternating current (AD) and direct current (DC) power transmissions. High-voltage cables are typically coaxial cables or hook-up wires since applications that use these cables have high currents. High-voltage cables are also available as power supply cables and are commonly used in industrial, aerospace, or marine applications.
High-voltage cables are typically used in cable systems in order to handle the high voltage of an application. When an application has a high current, it's especially important to look at cable specifications since using a medium-voltage cable or low voltage wire instead could cause a system failure.
Our Custom High-Voltage Wire Solution
One customer in the electrical power industry approached our custom cable experts because a high-voltage cable they had used previously was no longer being manufactured. Allied Wire and Cable was able to provide this customer with a replica of the cable they needed by designing a custom cable.
This cable needed to have a voltage rating of 10kV, so it was crucial proper materials were chosen. The conductor was made from silver-plated copper. Silver has superior electrical properties, and plating the conductor with it gave the cable a higher maximum temperature rating.
Silicone rubber was selected for the insulation. Silicone rubber is often used in high-voltage wires since it also has strong electrical properties and heat resistance. Silicone rubber also helps protect the cable against oxidation, oil, UV rays, and extreme weather conditions found in outdoor environments. Other common insulation materials, like XLPE, PVC, and EPR are more ideal for medium voltage cables.
With Allied Wire and Cable’s help, our customer was able to get the exact high-voltage wire they needed when they thought it was gone for good. We are a supplier and manufacturer of many industrial cables, including high-voltage cables. If you need help finding wire and cable or need something specially designed for your next application, visit our Custom Cable Design Center or Contact Us today.