What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of PVC Wire?

Any PVC power cable or wire is versatile, has high tensile strength, has good conducting power and can be joined effortlessly. That being said, it is best to tackle the issue of the advantages and disadvantages of PVC wire or cable individually. What do I mean? There several types of PVC insulated cables that perform certain specific functions. To get a clear perspective of a particular PVC cable’s advantages and disadvantages, you have to look at it individually. For instance, the most commonly recognized advantage of PVC single core cable is its high current rating. This cannot be said about other types of PVC wires. Which type of PVC wire do you intend to buy?

Assuming that you intend to buy a PVC control cable, you wouldn’t have to worry about electrolytic or chemical corrosion. PVC cables are generally advantageous in the sense that they are chemical-resistant, heat-resistant and water-resistant. Thus, if you intend to perform electrical installations close to chemicals, water or any heat-emitting appliances, a PVC insulated power cable will come in handy.

Generally, the resistance of PVC cables to UV light is good but not excellent. Consequently, it is not advisable to use a pure PVC sheathed cable for outdoor wiring purposes. PVC is relatively resistant to UV light, but prolonged exposure to UV rays is harmful. With time the cable will lose its flexibility, and cracks will start appearing on the cable’s surface. It is always advisable to use an Outdoor-rated PVC cable for outdoor wiring. An outdoor-rated PVC shielded cable contains stabilizing compounds added to the PVC to make it more resistant to UV light.

Are you interested in a waterproof cable? Well, PVC is primarily water-resistant, but it largely depends on how much time it stays in the water. For instance, PVC jacketed cable can come in contact with water and quickly dry out without any harm. However, if you intend to an underwater installation, you shouldn’t use an ordinary PVC cable. Given enough time, water will eat through the PVC insulation.