Balancing Thermal Performance With Other Desirable Cable Properties

Improving the thermal performance of a control cable can be a balancing act. Some of the changes to cable construction that widen the operating temperature range can compromise the cable’s electrical or mechanical properties. Silicone and cross-linked polyolefins do a good job striking that balance. Here’s why.

Wider Temperature Range

Both types of materials can dramatically widen the continuous use temperature range of control cables. A typical PVC control cable, for instance, can function in a temperature range of -40 to 90ºC. Compare that range to silicone-based cables, which work comfortably in a range of -50 to +180ºC.

The conductor material is also an important factor. For higher temperatures, a coated conductor is necessary to protect the bare copper effectively against corrosion. Tinned copper conductors should be used within a cable with a jacket made of silicone or cross-linked polyolefin.

Improved Wear And Chemical Resistance

With the most advanced cable technology, the additional thermal performance won’t affect the electrical properties of the cable at all, and any effects on mechanical properties will be minor or even advantageous. Compared to traditional PVC cables, the silicone and cross-linked polyolefin cables will exhibit:

●     Equivalent flexibility—though polyolefin cables are slightly stiffer than silicone or PVC cables

●     Improved wear resistance (for cross-linked polyolefin)

●     Improved chemical resistance

●     Equivalent flame performance

●     Halogen-free construction

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