As a project moves forward, it’s inevitable that plans change – and these changes can impact equipment location (and, as a result, cable location).
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During a recent stadium buildout, a particular piece of equipment ended up being relocated. Instead of installing it inside, the equipment would be installed outdoors underneath an adjacent parking structure.
The area was sheltered, but there was no climate control – so the Digital Electricity™ Cables that connected the equipment to the network would be exposed to the area’s high humidity levels and temperature fluctuations. In this location, the cable would, however, be protected from rain and wind.
Does this situation require indoor or outdoor cable? The answer: Outdoor cable! Just because the location offers protection from wind and moisture doesn’t mean the cable can withstand high humidity levels or temperature fluctuations.
Fortunately, our partners on this project brought the change to our attention and we were able to provide our recommendations before it was too late.
During construction in Canada, a control cable was being installed underneath a bridge. Similar to Situation No. 1, the cable in this case would be protected from the elements – but it would be exposed to temperature fluctuations and humidity.
In this case, however, the humidity levels were lower than in Situation No. 1. Outdoor temperatures would be lower most of the time as well, but fluctuations would still occur. The cable would be protected from snow and ice buildup.
Does this situation require indoor or outdoor cable? The answer: Outdoor cable! Just because it’s being installed in a sheltered location with lower temperatures and humidity levels doesn’t mean the cable can withstand weather fluctuations or extremes.
In fact, the outdoor temperature dipped to near -4 degrees F during this project. The cable being used had a minimum installation temperature of between 25 and 32 degrees F. Due to these conditions, the cable became brittle and started cracking during installation, so it could no longer be used.
Even if it’s being installed in conduit, no matter what kind of cable you’re using – whether it’s fiber, copper, security, control or another type – you should always use an outdoor-rated version of that cable whenever it will be exposed to one or more of the following:
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There will likely be a cost difference for outdoor cable, depending on the type of cable you choose. The cost often depends on the protection measures taken.
With many security cables, for example, a water-blocking tape is wrapped around the corded cable before the jacket is put on it. Even if water gets through the jacket, it won’t be able to permeate the tape barrier. The core – where all the conductors are located – remains protected.
Other cables are filled with water-repelling gel that fills the gaps within the cable’s internal conductors. An outer jacket is then applied; migration of water into the cable becomes very difficult.
Thicker, more resistant outer jackets are also used to protect cable from environmental elements.
Have questions about using indoor vs. outdoor cable in your next project? We’ll help you decide!
In our This vs. That series, we're comparing (and contrasting) two seemingly similar products. A lot of products seem the same at first glance but can greatly affect the outcome of your next application. Today, we're taking a closer look at portable cords and power cables.
Portable cords and power cables are often categorized together in wire and cable catalogs, and maybe you’ve wondered what the difference is between these two cables. Portable cord and power cable share the same primary function — to transmit electrical power. But what's the key distinction between cord and cable? Let's compare.
The portable cord has two or more conductors and is best suited for temporary supply applications requiring flexibility. A standard cord has at least two bare copper conductors, but the stranding, insulation, and jacket type vary according to the intended usage. A portable power cable offers multiple jacket options that determine the cord's physical properties and the kind of use it can endure. All portable cord weathers well in extreme environments and is resistant to oil, chemicals, and abrasion, but some jacket materials are hardier and rated as resistant to water and other hazards as well.
A portable cord's jacket type is easily discerned from the cable's exterior, thanks to a coding system of letters that help identify the construction of the cable, as well as its applications. The same letter codes also indicate the voltage. The standard "S" stands for "service" and means that the cable is rated to 600 volts. That is unless it's accompanied by a letter with a different associated voltage. "J" stands for "junior service" and means a 300-volt rating.
With a wide range of commercial, industrial, indoor, outdoor, and residential uses, the portable cord is ideal for appliances and small tools, and even for construction equipment and marine electrical applications. When used in motors or appliances, the portable cord is also called a “ service cord.”
Unlike portable cords, power cables are designed for permanent use and may be installed as overhead wiring, exposed wiring, and direct burial applications. The power cable is constructed of one or more electrical conductors with a covering and is available in various constructions, materials, and ratings for different applications.
Power cables are commonly used in the electric utility, industrial, and commercial markets. You can find power cables in diesel-electric locomotives as DLO cables, oil and gas drilling rigs, motor leads, power supply systems, shipyards, and some mining applications. Low-voltage applications include thermostat controls, heating, and A/C installations, signal systems, and intercoms, among others.
These two cables serve similar purposes, but the most important distinction to remember is that a portable cord is designed for temporary power supply, while power cables are usually installed in long-term or permanent applications.
If you're still not sure if you need a portable cord or power cable, let Allied help you out! Compare full portable cord and power cable specs for yourself or ask an expert by emailing [email protected]
The company is the world’s best Outdoor Power Cable supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.