If you purchase electrical cables manufactured according to international standards, the lifespan of your cables can be expected to last at least 20-30 years. But what can affect the life of an electrical cable?
Choose the appropriate insulation, outer jacket, and cable size
Understanding the factors that affect the life of cables, recognizing signs that indicate a need for replacement, and knowing how to extend their useful life is essential to maintaining electrical safety and efficiency.
The life of electrical cables can be greatly affected by several factors, such as the choice – or lack thereof – of appropriate insulation and sheathing. For example:
Cables operating in high temperature environments require insulating materials that can withstand heat without degrading. Cables operating in high-demand installations may require a rubber outer jacket, rather than an XLPE jacket.
Ensuring that cables are sized appropriately for the electrical load they will be carrying is crucial to their longevity. Undersized cables can lead to overheating and insulation failure, while oversized cables may be inefficient and more expensive. You can easily calculate the cross section of your cable here.
Operational and environmental factors that affect the life of cables
However, there are many operational and environmental factors that affect the actual lifespan of electrical cables. These include:
Electrical factors
Electrical overload is another major factor that can significantly reduce the life of electrical cables. Operating cables beyond their rated current capacity can cause overheating, which may result in insulation failure or fire. This not only compromises the integrity of the cable, but also poses significant safety risks to people and equipment.
Tip: Regular monitoring and maintenance can help prevent overloads and ensure that cables are operating within safe parameters.
Thermal factors
When purchasing electrical cables, it is important to consider the thermal rating specified by the manufacturer. This indicates the minimum and maximum temperature at which the cable can operate safely for a long period of time. This rating is determined by the insulation and/or outer sheath of the cable. Exceeding this limit can significantly reduce the life of the cable and damage its insulation properties. Proper cable ventilation and cooling systems can help mitigate the effects of heat and extend service life.
Environmental factors
Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can cause the insulation to brittle or melt, causing it to fail. Moisture is another enemy of electrical cables, as it can lead to corrosion of conductors and deterioration of insulation. Or if there is an unexpected rodent attack.
Tip: Understanding the specific environmental conditions in your industrial environment is essential for choosing the right type of cable and implementing protective measures.
Chemical agents
Exposure to chemicals, such as contact with oils, solvents, or other corrosive materials, can accelerate the breakdown of cable materials, resulting in deterioration of the cable insulation or outer jacket.
Tip: Choosing the right outer cable jacket can prevent future cable damage.
Mechanical factors
Mechanical stress can severely affect the life of electrical cables. Cables subjected to excessive bending, vibration or tension can damage insulating materials or conductors. This is especially important in industrial environments where machinery and equipment are constantly in motion.
Tip: Making sure cables are securely fastened and protected from excessive movement can help mitigate this type of damage.
Cable installation and termination
Cables that are not properly installed or terminated may be more susceptible to damage. Poor installation practices can lead to problems such as inaccurate connections, improper grounding, and insufficient strain relief, all of which can shorten the life of the cable.
Tip: Adhering to best practices during installation and termination can significantly improve the durability and performance of electrical cables.
Buy high quality cables
When it’s time to purchase electrical cable, choosing the best quality cable manufacturer and consulting with cable experts can ensure that your cables are well-suited to your operating environment, improving safety and efficiency.
If you would like to request a quote for a new project, do not hesitate to contact us.
